How to Prevent Bed Bugs in an Apartment

Bed bug problems can be much worse in apartments than in single-unit homes. They can easily travel through cracks in the wall, light switches, outlets, and more spaces to spread from one unit to another.

To prevent a bed bug infestation in your apartment, take this advice:

1. Stay alert and make yourself aware of common signs of infestations.
2. Let your property manager know about any potential infestations.
3. Use a mattress protector and take other common precautions.

Can Bed Bugs Spread Across Apartment Units?

Yes, bed bugs are able to spread across the units of an apartment building. Bed bugs like to catch rides on suitcases, backpacks, and more items, so they can easily travel through the hallways of an apartment building, as well. Bed bugs spread fairly slowly, so it’s important to stay alert and look out for signs of bed bugs in your apartment unit before they move to others.

Are Landlords Responsible for Bed Bugs in Apartments?

As long as the tenant themselves isn’t responsible for introducing bed bugs to the environment, the landlord is usually responsible for paying for extermination. However, this varies by different states’ laws. Almost every state has a different statute that covers the landlord’s obligation to arrange for a visit from a pest control company. It is important to note that in most cases, renter’s insurance doesn’t cover bed bug infestations.

How to Prevent Bed Bugs Spreading in Apartment Buildings

To keep bed bugs from spreading across an apartment building, the best thing you can do is keep watch for signs of an infestation. If you have woken up with small, red bites on your skin, have found stains on your bedding, or have seen actual bed bugs around, tell your property manager or landlord as soon as you can. This can help start the treatment process in your unit before bed bugs take over other units.