Landlords’ Essential Pest Control Duties in U.S. Rentals

Answer

Dealing with unwanted pests can turn a rental into a nightmare. Tenants often ask: who’s responsible for pest control—landlord or renter? In the U.S., landlords must maintain a habitable dwelling, and that typically includes keeping insects and rodents at bay.

Under most state and local housing codes, the warranty of habitability requires landlords to address infestations that aren’t caused by tenant neglect. Common landlord obligations include:

• Initial treatment before move‑in: Ensure the unit is free of visible pests (cockroaches, rodents, bedbugs) at the start of tenancy.
• Ongoing maintenance: Arrange regular inspections and preventive measures—sealing gaps, fixing leaks, and maintaining screens or door sweeps.
• Timely response to complaints: Schedule a licensed exterminator within a “reasonable time” (often 7–10 business days) after tenant notification.
• Compliance with local rules: Follow city or county requirements—some jurisdictions mandate annual treatments or specific reporting procedures.
• Common‑area pest management: In multi‑unit buildings, coordinate building‑wide treatments to stop reinfestation from adjacent units.

While landlords cover costs for infestations considered structural or building‑wide, tenants are generally expected to keep their spaces clean and report problems promptly. If damage or infestation stems from tenant behavior—like improper food storage or clutter—landlords may be allowed to bill the tenant for treatment expenses, depending on lease terms and local regulations.

Not all pests fall under the same rules. For example, many states treat bedbugs as a landlord responsibility regardless of cause, and others have special ordinances for rodents. Always check your city or county code: for federal guidance, see the HUD pest control page.

Bottom line: Landlords must ensure rental units meet health and safety standards, which almost always includes proactive and reactive pest control. Before enforcing lease charges or delaying treatment, it’s advisable to consult a licensed attorney or local housing authority to confirm your state and municipal requirements.