My tenant contacted me to report a bed bug issue in the rental unit. Is it my responsibility as the landlord to pay for the cost of calling a pest control company to deal with the issue? Am I able to ask the tenant to dispose of their infested belongings?

This link from our website explains the landlord’s obligations in treating the property, paying for the treatments, etc.: https://landlordselfhelp.com/blog/tenants-not-responsible-treatment-bed-bugs/

This link from the City of Toronto (as an example) covers the issue of furniture and usual disposal practices: https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/health-wellness-care/health-programs-advice/bed-bugs/

The lease wording will not override the landlord’s obligations to maintain the property and comply with health and housing standards. Working with the pest control company and getting proper cooperation from the tenant is crucial, so open communication, giving proper notices to enter, etc., will be very important in dealing with this problem.

Skip to content