Bitten in a rented room, and the homeowner won't pay for treatment

by Debbie

I rented a bedroom from a homeowner about a month ago. I didn't bring furniture, and my clothes were in plastic bags. Within the first week I was bitten so badly I got a skin infection and needed antibiotics, and I just woke up with 8 new bites. I have a compromised immune system, so I react badly. The homeowner implied I brought them, said she won't pay for treatment, and offered to buy a new mattress and box spring. I'm treating the room myself so I can leave without taking them with me. Can I sue her?

Editor Response

Hi Debbie,

We're sorry you're dealing with this, especially with your health. We're not lawyers, so for whether you can sue, contact a local tenant rights group, legal aid office or attorney. Your rights as a room renter can differ from those of an apartment tenant. Keep records: dates, photos of bites and any bugs, medical bills and your messages with the homeowner. You're right that a new mattress alone won't solve it, since bugs hide in the bed frame, baseboards and furniture. Before you move, run all clothes and fabrics through a hot dryer for at least 30 minutes, seal them in new bags, and inspect your bags and belongings carefully so you don't carry bugs to your new place. Please follow up with your doctor about any bites that look infected.