How Common Are Bed Bugs in Apartments?
WouterUntil a few years ago, bedbugs were a rarity in apartment buildings. However, since 2000, this pest has become a serious public health problem across North America. These insects are highly resistant to pesticides and can infest homes, apartment buildings, and public spaces.
In New York City, an apartment building that has a bedbug problem is considered a Class B violation, which means that the property owner must take corrective action and prevent further infestation. Additionally, property owners must provide tenants with a written notice stating whether they have experienced bedbugs in the past year. If a landlord fails to do this, tenants may file a complaint online or by calling 311 for assistance.
The best way to prevent an apartment-wide infestation is to thoroughly inspect each apartment and room in the building. Make sure you check closets, storage rooms, and other areas that might harbor bedbugs. If the bugs are widespread, you should hire a professional to do a thorough inspection of the building.
Apartments are susceptible to bedbug infestations because bedbugs are attracted to living humans and can easily crawl into nooks and crannies. Even the cleanest apartments can become infested. When you notice signs of an infestation, notify your landlord immediately and call a bed bug specialist.
