How to prevent bed bugs in an apartment

To keep bed bugs out of your apartment unit, there are three main things you can do to stay protected:

1. Stay aware of and know the signs of bed bugs.
2. Always tell your property manager or landlord as soon as your notice bed bug problems.
3. Practice prevention methods, including covering your mattress and being careful in laundry facilities.

Do bed bugs spread between apartments?

Unfortunately, yes, bed bugs will spread from one unit to another. Bed bugs often latch onto backpacks, suitcases, and more, making it likely to spread bed bugs throughout a complex when a single unit is infested. They also can often be picked up in shared laundry facilities. Bed bugs aren’t quick insects and in fact spread rather slowly, which is why it’s important to attempt to take immediate action when they’re found in a single unit.

Do landlords get rid of bed bugs?

Unless the tenant is proved to have introduced the bed bugs to an apartment, the landlord is usually responsible for the extermination costs. Each state abides by different laws when it comes to this, however. Usually, states require landlords to arrange for an exterminator to treat the unit or entire building. It’s important to note that renters insurance almost never covers anything related to bed bug infestations or any pest for that matter. In any case, always check with your property manager for details when you notice a bed bug problem.

Stop bed bugs from spreading in apartment buildings

To keep bed bugs from infesting more than one unit, the most important thing is to know the signs of an infestation. If you’re experiencing bites, have noticed stains on your bedding, or have spotted actual bed bugs, it’s important to contact your property manager or landlord as soon as possible. Stopping an infestation in a single unit is the key to keeping the problem from getting worse.