Nebraska Renters: How to Handle Pest Problems Legally

Pest infestations such as bed bugs, cockroaches, or rodents can impact your health and safety. If you’re renting in Nebraska and facing pests in your apartment, you have legal protections and clear steps to take. Understanding your rights can help you resolve these issues effectively.

What Nebraska Law Says About Pest-Free Housing

Your landlord must maintain your rental unit in a habitable condition, which includes controlling pest infestations. Nebraska’s Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act sets minimum requirements for tenant health and safety.^[1]

• Landlords must keep dwellings safe and sanitary
• This includes controlling insects, rodents, and vermin
• Tenants have specific obligations to keep their units clean and avoid causing infestations

Who Is Responsible for Pest Control?

Generally, landlords are responsible for pest treatment—unless an infestation results from tenant behavior such as poor housekeeping. If you have kept your unit clean and still notice pests, your landlord is likely responsible for taking action.

What to Do If You Notice Pests in Your Apartment

Early reporting and documentation are essential. Follow these steps to address a pest problem in your Nebraska rental:

• Document the pests: Take dated photos or videos showing the infestation.
• Notify your landlord in writing (email, letter, or official form). Keep a copy for your records.
• Allow a reasonable time for your landlord to respond (usually a few days to two weeks, depending on severity).

• If the landlord does not act in a reasonable timeframe, you may have the right to file a complaint or seek legal remedies.

Tip: Always communicate pest issues in writing and keep evidence. This helps if further legal action is needed.

Using Official Nebraska Forms: How and When

• Notice of Noncompliance with Rental Agreement (Nebraska Form CC 6:6.3):
  • When to Use: If your landlord fails to fix a pest infestation, use this form to request repairs and set a deadline (usually 14 days).
  • How to File: Complete the form with details of the pest problem, deliver or mail it to your landlord, and keep a copy. Access the official Nebraska Landlord–Tenant Notice forms here.

Filing a written notice is the official way to start resolving habits of noncompliance, like untreated infestations.

If the Problem Isn’t Fixed: Your Legal Options

If the landlord doesn’t address the pest issue after you give proper written notice, you may:

• Contact local housing authorities or the Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services for inspection or help
• File a case with the Nebraska County Court, which handles residential tenancy disputes under the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Consider repair-and-deduct remedies (consult the Act for requirements and risks)

Always check requirements before withholding rent or paying for your own pest treatment. Some actions could risk eviction if not done correctly.

Relevant Nebraska Tenancy Legislation

The main law covering your rights is the Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. This act outlines landlord and tenant duties regarding repairs, habitability, and handling disputes.^[1]

FAQ: Nebraska Renters and Pest Infestations

1. Who pays for pest control in a Nebraska apartment?
   Generally, the landlord is responsible for eliminating pests unless the tenant’s actions caused the infestation. Check your lease for specifics.
2. How do I report a landlord who won’t fix a pest problem?
   Begin by sending written notice (such as the Notice of Noncompliance), and if unresolved, contact your local health department or file a court complaint.
3. Can I withhold rent if my unit has pests?
   This is risky. Nebraska law requires specific steps—always give written notice and follow the procedures in the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act before withholding rent.
4. How quickly must my landlord respond to a pest report?
   Landlords must address urgent health issues promptly, usually within 14 days of receiving written notice, unless it’s an emergency situation.
5. What’s the main law protecting renters in Nebraska?
   The Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act is the governing law on rental rights and responsibilities.

Key Takeaways for Nebraska Renters

• Your landlord must address pest infestations when reported in writing.
• Always document and communicate pest problems promptly.
• Use official forms for notices and consult the law before taking further action.

Knowing your rights and following the correct process will help protect your home and well-being.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nebraska Landlord–Tenant Official Notice Forms (for reporting issues and giving notice)
• Nebraska Mediation Centers (free or low-cost dispute help)
• Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services (for rental health concerns)
• Nebraska Judicial Branch – Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center

---

1. Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Official Nebraska Landlord–Tenant Forms
3. Nebraska Judicial Branch – Landlord-Tenant Self-Help
4. Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations