Experts warn that the recent record payout awarded to a Maryland woman is just the beginning of what’s to come in bed bug litigation. Although bed bug lawsuits nationwide have increased exponentially over the past few years, it is the most recent bed bug settlement that has landlords taking notice. panerai replica watches on

Experts warn that the recent $800,000 record payout awarded to a Maryland woman this month (as reported by the Baltimore Sun on May 31) is just the beginning of what’s to come in bed bug litigation. There is certain sense of worry among tenants and landlords alike as bed bug lawsuits continue to increase. While the Maryland case serves as a catalyst for other consumers to file suit, it is also a wake-up call for landlords and property manager to ensure that their facilities are bed bug free.

Who is financially responsible for bed bug pest control, the property manager or the tenant? In Southern Nevada, the Southern Nevada Health District website notes that:

Renters: Landlords and property owners have an obligation to provide safe and habitable accommodations for tenants. Tenants have an obligation to cooperate with owners and landlords. This includes preparing the home so that the pest control operator can easily inspect the rooms and treat if necessary.

(A side note:  Note that this says “treat” not get rid of or eliminate bed bugs.  There's a grey area there.  Treatment for bed bugs can vary, from spraying to the most effective process like integrated pest management or bed bug heat treatment.  Unfortunately, some still opt for the cheaper pest control option of spraying for bed bugs, which only temporarily solves a bed bug problem.  Any pest control company can treat an infestation – a qualified Las Vegas Bed Bug Exterminator will eliminate a bed bug infestation.)

Landlords: Landlords and property owners have an obligation to provide safe and habitable accommodations for tenants. Bed bug infestations can be considered unacceptable conditions.

Because bed bugs can live for months without feeding, they may be present in clean and vacant homes. Bed bugs can move between apartments through voids in walls and holes through which wires and pipes pass.

While landlords can argue that tenants are the source of bed bugs and should take the responsibility for bed bug extermination, tenants often argue that bed bugs are the landlord or Replique montre de luxe property management company’s responsibility.

Without a set protocol for bed bug prevention and control, it is hard for landlords to assure prospective tenants’ that the unit they are renting is bed bug free upon move in.On the other hand, how do you know that bed bugs aren’t coming from an adjoining unit or that the tenant is not moving in and bringing bed bug infested items with them?

The legal system is starting to show that it is agreeing with tenants.The Maryland case made headlines because of the size of the award and the fact that it is an early indication of how the courts and juries are viewing the bed bugs issues.The message from the legal system is staring to get notice and is leaning to landlords being proactive when dealing with bed bugs and protecting tenants and renters from bed bugs.

A combination of beaten down home prices and rising rents make these cities promising places to become a landlord -- just as long as you understand the risks involved. -- CNN

With Las Vegas becoming a renter’s paradise, property manager’s and landlords should respond quickly to bed bug complaints and have a set protocol for dealing with bed bugs including thorough inspections, 100% removal and follow up.To achieve 100% bed bug extermination there is more than just general monthly spraying.The problem will continue and only get worse if not handled correctly.

Of course you can wait for a complaint, or you can set a plan in place to protect ahead of time.  You should retain a qualified bed bug only inspection and Las Vegas bed bug extermination company such as K-9 Sweeps.  If you would like to discuss how K-9 Sweeps can assist with bed bugs please contact our office at 702-586-5179.