What are my rights as a renter with bed bugs?

What are my rights as a renter? I just moved into a three-quarter house and it is infested with bed bugs. I'm getting bitten, can't sleep, and it has only been two days. What should I do?

Editor Response

We're not lawyers, and tenant rights vary by state and city, so this is general information. If you're in a sober-living or three-quarter house, your rights may depend on whether local law treats you as a tenant, so ask a tenant rights or legal aid group. Tell the landlord or house manager right away, in writing, and keep a copy. Many states and cities require landlords to treat infestations, and some, like New York City, also require landlords to disclose a building's bed bug history to new tenants. Take photos of any bugs or signs you find, and keep a bug on clear tape if you can. While you wait for treatment, don't move to another bed or couch, which can spread them; run your bedding and clothes through a hot dryer for 30 minutes and keep your belongings bagged. If the landlord won't act, contact your local health department or a tenant rights organization.