Bedbug Disclosure Requirements for Florida Rentals

If you’re moving into a Florida apartment, knowing your rights and responsibilities around bedbug disclosures can help you avoid health risks and rental disputes. Bedbugs are an increasing concern for renters, and understanding Florida laws will help you know what your landlord must tell you before you sign a lease.

Florida's Bedbug Disclosure Rules

Florida law addresses landlord responsibilities when it comes to insect infestations, including bedbugs. However, as of 2024, there is no statewide Florida law that specifically requires landlords to provide a separate "bedbug disclosure" before a tenant moves into an apartment. Instead, general pest control requirements apply under state law.

Landlord Obligations for Pest Control

Under Florida Statutes Section 83.51, landlords of multi-family apartment buildings (more than one unit) are responsible for "extermination of rats, mice, roaches, ants, wood-destroying organisms, and bedbugs." Landlords must take reasonable steps to remove these pests unless your lease agreement clearly states you are responsible for pest control.

• No law mandates a written bedbug history disclosure for apartments.
• Landlords must act promptly if notified in writing about bedbugs.
• If infestation occurs, landlords may require tenants to vacate for up to 4 days for extermination—but rent abatement is not required.

It’s a good idea to ask about pest history and bedbug treatments before signing your lease even if disclosure isn’t required.

Required Move-In Forms and Inspections

Florida does not offer a standard statewide form specifically for bedbug disclosure. However, the following forms may be used for documenting conditions or requesting action:

• Move-In/Move-Out Checklist: While not required by law, many renters and landlords use a checklist to document the apartment’s condition at move-in. This helps if there’s a dispute about pre-existing pest problems. Template versions are sometimes provided by local housing authorities or management companies.
  Example: Before moving in, inspect the apartment, note any signs of insects or bedbugs on the checklist, and request your landlord sign it as well.
• Tenant Maintenance Request: There is no official statewide form, but you should notify your landlord in writing (email, letter, or their required portal) if you discover bedbugs.
  Example: After noticing bites or seeing bedbugs, send a written maintenance request detailing the issue so the landlord is officially on notice.

See the Florida Housing Landlord/Tenant Guide for detailed move-in practices and pest responsibilities.

What Should Renters Do If They Find Bedbugs?

If you discover bedbugs after moving in, taking proactive steps is key. Here’s how:

• Report the infestation in writing to your landlord right away.
• Keep copies of all correspondence and photos of evidence if possible.
• Allow reasonable access for pest inspections and treatments.
• Do not attempt to treat the infestation yourself with over-the-counter sprays unless your lease says you must.

Contacting the Appropriate Tribunal

In Florida, rental disputes are generally resolved through the local county court system, not a separate tenancy tribunal. For unresolved issues involving bedbugs, you may file a claim in your local county court. Refer to the Florida Bar's Guide on Landlord/Tenant Law for accessing legal aid and court procedures.

FAQ: Bedbug Disclosures and Rentals in Florida

1. Are Florida landlords required to tell me if an apartment had bedbugs before?
   There is no Florida law requiring landlords to disclose a history of bedbugs. However, they must keep the rental free of pests and respond to any complaints promptly.
2. Can I get out of my lease if there’s a bedbug infestation?
   You may have the right to terminate your lease if your landlord does not address a serious bedbug problem, but you must follow the formal written notice process outlined in Florida law first.
3. Is there a Florida form for reporting bedbugs?
   No official form exists, but written notice (such as an email or letter) to your landlord is required to start the process.
4. Can my landlord make me leave for bedbug treatment?
   Yes, under Florida law, landlords can require you to vacate the apartment for up to 4 days for extermination, but are not required to reduce your rent during that time.
5. Who enforces bedbug laws in Florida rentals?
   Florida county courts handle tenancy disputes; there is no state landlord-tenant board for enforcement.

Key Takeaways for Florida Renters

• Florida does not require pre-move-in bedbug disclosures, but landlords must provide pest control in multi-family buildings.
• Always report bedbugs in writing and document your requests to your landlord.
• Use move-in checklists and maintain records for your own protection.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Florida Housing Landlord-Tenant Law Guide
• Florida Bar Consumer Pamphlet: Landlord/Tenant Law
• Local Florida County Courts (for filing rental disputes)
• Florida Law Help (for legal aid and forms)

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1. Florida Statutes Section 83.51 – Landlord’s obligation to maintain premises
2. Florida Housing Landlord/Tenant Guide
3. Florida Bar's Consumer Guide to Landlord/Tenant Law

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