Pest problems in rental homes can be frustrating, and figuring out who handles them isn’t always easy. Is pest control the landlord's or the tenant’s responsibility? The answer depends on the cause of the infestation, lease terms, and local laws.

This guide will help tenants understand their rights, obligations, and best practices for maintaining a pest-free rental property.

What is Rental Pest Control?

Rental pest control refers to the responsibility of managing pests like ants, roaches, rodents, and bed bugs in a rental property. Both landlords and tenants have a role to play. Pests pose serious health and safety risks, so it’s important to deal with them quickly and correctly.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), rodents and insects can carry diseases, making prompt pest control vital in any home.

Who is Responsible—Tenant or Landlord?

Is pest control landlord or tenants' responsibility? It depends. Here’s a breakdown of common scenarios:

Landlord Responsibilities

Landlords are generally responsible for:

Providing a pest-free property at move-in.
Fixing structural issues (cracks, holes, roof leaks) that allow pests in.
Handling infestations caused by their negligence.
Treating pests in common areas of multi-unit buildings.

In some states, landlords must comply with specific pest control laws. For example, California’s Department of Consumer Affairs states that landlords must handle infestations not caused by tenant behavior.

Tenant Responsibilities

Tenants are typically responsible for:

Keeping the unit clean and sanitary.
Disposing of garbage properly.
Reporting pest issues promptly.
Preventing pest problems through daily upkeep.

If a tenant’s behavior causes an infestation—such as leaving food out—they may be required to pay for extermination.

Understanding Your Lease Agreement

The lease is the first place to check when pest issues arise. Many leases have a rental pest control clause that outlines:

Who pays for routine treatments.
What pests are covered.
How and when to report infestations.
Who handles ongoing maintenance.

If it’s unclear, ask the landlord or property manager for clarification before signing. You can also review NOLO’s legal guide for renters to understand your state’s rules.

When Tenants Might Be Responsible

You might be responsible for pest control if:

You leave trash overflowing or food uncovered.
You don’t report a pest issue early.
You live in a shared building and your unit is the source of the problem.

Minor pest issues like ants or fruit flies might fall under tenant responsibility, especially if caused by poor cleaning habits.

When Landlords Are Accountable

Landlords are usually responsible for pest control when:

The issue existed before you moved in.
Pests are caused by the building’s condition (cracks, water leaks, or broken windows).
Common areas, like laundry rooms or hallways, are infested.

If your landlord doesn’t respond, you may be able to file a complaint with your local housing authority. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides information on pest control policies in rental housing.

Preventative Measures for Tenants

Stopping pests before they become a major problem is key. Tenants can do the following:

Take out the trash regularly.
Store food in sealed containers.
Clean spills right away.
Avoid clutter, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
Report pests early.

Simple habits like these reduce the risk of infestations and help you avoid being held responsible.

What Landlords Should Maintain

Landlords must keep the building in good shape. That means:

Sealing entry points like cracks or gaps.
Repairing leaks and water damage.
Scheduling regular property inspections.
Hiring licensed pest control companies when needed.

A pest-free home starts with a well-maintained property.

What To Do If You Spot Pests

If you notice signs of pests:

Take photos or videos of the problem.
Contact your landlord immediately in writing (email or text).
Keep a record of all communication.

This documentation helps protect your rights and can be used if the issue escalates. The Tenant Resource Center offers advice on handling disputes and filing complaints if landlords fail to act.

Who Pays for Professional Pest Services?

Payment depends on the cause of the infestation and the lease terms. Here’s a general guide:

Landlord pays if: the issue is pre-existing or caused by property defects.
Tenant pays if: the problem is due to personal behavior or poor hygiene.
Both parties may share costs if the lease includes scheduled pest treatments.

If a disagreement occurs, refer to the lease and your local housing laws.

State Laws Vary

Your rights and responsibilities can vary based on where you live. Some states, like Texas and California, have clear pest control laws. Others leave more to the lease terms.

Use this interactive guide from Legal Aid to find legal help or housing information in your state.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

Review your lease agreement carefully.
Keep your unit clean and well-maintained.
Report pest problems early and in writing.
Understand when you may be financially responsible.
Know your local laws and tenant rights.

Whether you're dealing with bed bugs, mice, or roaches, knowing your role in rental pest control helps avoid disputes and ensures a healthier living space.

Ensuring a Pest-Free Living Environment

Maintaining a pest-free rental is a shared responsibility, but when you're dealing with a vacant unit, the burden often falls squarely on the landlord. Between rising pest control costs, tenant turnover, and the hassle of upkeep, it's understandable if you're feeling overwhelmed. If you're constantly battling infestations in an empty or underperforming property, it may be time to consider a different path.

Rather than pouring more money into repairs and treatments, selling your rental property for cash could be the quickest way to offload the stress. Cash buyers purchase properties as-is — pests, problems, and all — allowing you to walk away without the hassle of showings, agent fees, or months of waiting.

Sometimes the best pest control solution isn’t another exterminator… it’s a clean break

Pest Control Obligations: A Tenant’s Guide