Bed bugs are a constant threat in New York. Unlike some other infestations, bed bugs are not exclusively caused by poor building maintenance or unsanitary housekeeping. Bed bugs can be picked up in cabs, movie theaters, restaurants, subways, and even churches. Even expensive and well maintained luxury apartments have been infested by bed bugs.
While most people are aware of the bed bug problem, many might be surprised to learn that the City has actually enacted laws on the matter. Housing and Maintenance Code, Subchapter 2, Article 4, requires landlords to eradicate bed bug infestations, and Section 27-2018 of the New York City Administrative Code requires landlords to give tenants one-year bed bug history reports upon request. These issues may also be addressed in lease agreements.
Whether you are a tenant or a landlord, if you would like to learn more about your rights or obligations with regard to a bed bug infestation, call The Law Firm of Vaughn and Weber at 516-858-2620 for a free consultation. We are conveniently located in the heart of long island at 393 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 208, Mineola NY, 11501.
*Contributions to the research and preparation of this blog were made by Jason Mays, J.D.
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