What does Arizona law say about bed bugs in rentals?
Written by the Hydra Pest Control team, Arizona-licensed (license #9790)
Last reviewed:
A.R.S. 33-1319 says landlords must give tenants bed bug educational materials and can't lease a unit they know has a current infestation. Tenants can't knowingly move in infested items and must notify the landlord in writing or electronically. It doesn't apply to single-family homes and doesn't say who pays for treatment.
What the statute says
(A)(1) The landlord provides bed bug educational materials to tenants. These may include information from CDC and information about risk behaviors.
(A)(2) The landlord can't enter into a lease for a unit the landlord knows has a current infestation.
(B)(1) A tenant shall not knowingly move materials infested with bed bugs into the unit. (B)(2) A tenant who knows of bed bugs gives the landlord written or electronic notice.
(C) The section doesn't limit other rights and remedies under the chapter.
(D) Landlords and tenants of single-family residences are excluded.
(E) Except as specifically provided, the section doesn't create a cause of action against a landlord or a tenant for damages caused by bed bugs.
(F) 'Infestation' means enough bed bugs to materially affect health and safety.
Who pays for treatment?
The statute doesn't assign treatment costs. Check your lease and talk with your landlord. For disputes, talk to an attorney or legal aid.
Practical steps
Notify the landlord in writing. Don't move infested furniture to other units or to the curb. Prepare the unit as the pest control company directs.
Related: renting in Arizona · bed bugs from used furniture
Frequently asked
Does my landlord have to pay for bed bug treatment?
The statute doesn't say who pays. See your lease and talk with your landlord; for disputes, talk to an attorney or legal aid.
Do I have to tell my landlord?
Yes. A tenant who knows of bed bugs gives the landlord written or electronic notice (A.R.S. 33-1319(B)(2)).
Does this law cover a rented house?
No. A.R.S. 33-1319(D) excludes landlords and tenants of single-family residences.
Can I sue over bed bug bites under this law?
A.R.S. 33-1319(E) says the section itself doesn't create a cause of action for bed bug damages, except as specifically provided. Ask an attorney about other options.
Related
- Bed bug treatment
- Property management pest control
- Renting in Arizona: a renter's guide to pests, leases and your rights
- Who is responsible for pest control in an Arizona rental: landlord or tenant?
- Can you get bed bugs from used furniture, and how do I check it?
- How do I avoid bringing bed bugs home from a trip?
Sources
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