Bedbug Policy
Bed bugs are a growing national problem, and as a result, this policy has been created. The purpose of this policy is to set forth the roles and responsibilities of all parties (Tenant and Landlord) in minimizing the potential for bed bugs. This policy will also provide guidance in cases where bed bugs are present in order to eliminate them as quickly as possible.
Bed bugs are difficult to contain without the proper treatment Therefore it is imperative that all parties (Tenant and Landlord) work simultaneously toward a common goal: extermination and elimination. If left untreated, bed bugs can spread throughout a residence affecting current and future tenants.
Public Housing Program
THA Roles and Responsibilities:
HUD requires the landlord to maintain the dwelling unit and its premises in accordance with Housing Quality Standards (HQS). If bed bugs are present, it is the responsibility of the landlord, as stated in the HQS (CFR 982.401), to ensure that the dwelling unit and its equipment be in sanitary condition and free of vermin and rodent infestation. Upon notification from the tenant, THA will perform an initial inspection of the tenant's residence using the "Central Maintenance Tracking Sheet" If it is determined that bed bugs are present, THA will provide the tenant with the "THA & Tenant Roles and Responsibilities" document. The above document will be explained to the tenant to ensure understanding and compliance prior to treatment In addition, THA will secure the tenant's signature indicating understanding of the document Upon successful completion by the tenant of their roles and responsibilities THA will professionally treat the residence and perform follow-up to ensure treatment was successful.
In order to educate tenants and minimize potential for the presence of bed bugs, THA has created a "Prevention Tips" document.
Tenant Roles and Responsibilities:
HUD regulations require the tenant's cooperation in order to successfully eliminate the presence of bed bugs. Therefore, it is the tenant's responsibility to call in a work order as soon as the presence of bed bugs is suspected. This will allow THA to address the potential infestation at its onset and before it affects other tenants. In addition, the tenant must be onsite when the initial inspection is conducted. If it is determined by THA that bed bugs are present, the tenant must complete all items listed on the "THA & Tenant Roles and Responsibilities" prior to treatment and as soon as possible. This will help to minimize the severity of bed bug presence and resolve the problem quickly. A tenant may be deemed in violation of the lease agreement if they fail to fully cooperate and comply with their roles and responsibilities.
Bed Bug Policy Attachments
- Landlord Inspection Checklist
- Central Maintenance Tracking Sheet
- Landlord Certification Statement
- THA & Tenant Roles and Responsibilities
- Prevention Tips