Bedbug Disclosure Requirements for New York Renters

If you’re moving into an apartment in New York, you have several rights intended to keep your new home safe and healthy — including laws that require landlords to disclose any history of bedbug infestations. Understanding these bedbug disclosure requirements can help you make informed decisions and address any concerns quickly.

What Is a Bedbug Disclosure and Why Does It Matter?

New York State and City law protects renters by requiring landlords to inform new tenants about any bedbug infestations in the building within the past year. This gives renters crucial information before signing a lease and moving in.

What Landlords Must Disclose

• The presence of bedbugs in the apartment or building within the previous 12 months
• Whether the specific unit had an infestation
• Whether adjacent units had infestations
• Any remediation steps taken by the landlord

This helps renters understand any risks and take action if needed.

Official Bedbug Disclosure Form in New York

New York City Bedbug Disclosure Form (DHCR Form RR-6)

• Form name and number: New York City Bedbug Disclosure Form (RR-6)
• When and how it's used: Landlords in New York City must provide this form to all prospective tenants before the lease is signed, and it should also be included with the lease agreement. For example, if you're viewing an apartment and decide to rent it, you should receive Form RR-6 before or at lease signing so you can review any bedbug history in the building.
• See the official DHCR Bedbug Disclosure Form (RR-6)

Outside New York City, state law does not require a specific form, but landlords must still disclose any bedbug history upon request or as required by local regulations.

What Should Renters Expect?

• You should receive the RR-6 form before signing a lease in New York City
• In other parts of New York State, ask for written disclosure from your landlord about any bedbug history
• If you suspect the landlord did not disclose a previous infestation, you have the right to take further steps

Relevant New York Legislation and Tribunal

• New York Real Property Law Section 235-b: Warranty of Habitability
• NYC Administrative Code § 27-2018.1: Bedbug Disclosure
• The main tribunal handling residential tenancy disputes, including bedbug disclosure issues, is the New York City Housing Court for city cases and your local City or Town court for other parts of the state.

These rules help enforce tenant protections regarding infestations and ensure you get clear information before moving in.

What to Do If Your Landlord Fails to Disclose or You Find Bedbugs

• Document any communications with your landlord
• File a complaint with DHCR's tenant complaint portal if you believe bedbug disclosures were not provided
• If necessary, start a case in Housing Court for repairs or remedies

FAQ: Bedbug Disclosure Laws for New York Apartments

1. Do landlords in New York have to tell me about bedbugs before I move in?
   Yes, in New York City they must give you a completed Bedbug Disclosure Form (RR-6) before you sign your lease.
2. What information do I get on the Bedbug Disclosure Form?
   The form states whether the unit or building had any bedbug infestations in the last 12 months and what was done about it.
3. What if my landlord doesn't provide the disclosure?
   You can request it in writing. If it's still not provided, file a complaint with the DHCR or your local housing agency.
4. Does this apply in all parts of New York State?
   Formal disclosure forms are required in New York City. Elsewhere in New York, you can still request written bedbug history from your landlord.
5. Where do I go if I find bedbugs after moving in?
   Start by notifying your landlord in writing and requesting remediation. If the problem isn't fixed, you can file a complaint with DHCR or Housing Court.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for New York Renters

• Landlords in New York City must provide a Bedbug Disclosure Form (RR-6) to all new tenants
• Always ask landlords directly about bedbug history before moving in
• Know your right to file a complaint if disclosure is missing or inadequate

Being informed about bedbug disclosure protects you and helps ensure your new home meets health standards.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) – Main agency for tenant complaints and information
• NYC HPD: Bed Bugs Information – Resource for NYC renters on bedbug rights and complaints
• New York City Housing Court – Handles housing and habitability disputes
• Download RR-6 Bedbug Disclosure Form

---

1. NYC Administrative Code § 27-2018.1
2. New York Real Property Law Section 235-b
3. NYC DHCR Bedbug Disclosure Form (RR-6)
4. NY State Division of Housing and Community Renewal
5. NYC Housing Court

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