Bed bugs

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Slybone

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Hello there:

I moved into a new apartment complex back in June of this year, the past 3 years before this I lived in college housing. Recently I have discovered an infestation of bed bugs. When I moved in my items were not infested. When I signed the lease the landlord stated that they have treated the property for any infestations.

According to a pest control specialist in my area re-infestation is common, as these little buggers are really hard to fight off. He told me that it is really hard to tell where the problem originated from and it could have been from my apartment or another in the complex. I feel like I'm fighting a losing battle fighting these things.

According to California law, is the landlord responsible for bed bug treatment?

Cheers,
B
 
You need to inform your landlord of the problem in writing. You should ask other tenants about the problem. The more widespread it is, the more responsible the landlord will be. If it is just you then the landlord may argue that you brought the bugs with you.

Your verbal notice pretty much means zilch... make sure you submit a written notice (save a copy). The landlord will likely hire an exterminator to battle the problem, but there is not guarantee of success. If the landlord is unresponsive to your written notice then you will have something on your side if you try to break your lease.
 
furthermore, is the landlord liable for damage to items such as mattress / box spring / sheets / pillows etc?
 
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That depends on the circumstances.
If you notify the landlord (in writing) as soon as the problem arises and no acton is taken, then you might be able to make that argument for damages.
If it can be shown that the bugs were brought with you (nobody else has them) then there is no reason to expect the landlord to be liable.
You are expected to do your part to protect your property as well. Don't do nothing and just wait for the landlord to take action. There are precautions you can take.
 
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