Oregon Bedbug Disclosure Laws: What Renters Should Know

Facing concerns about bedbugs when moving into a new apartment in Oregon? You're not alone. Bedbug issues can pose health risks and stress for renters. Oregon has specific requirements for landlords and tenants regarding disclosure, inspections, and dealing with infestations. Understanding your rights helps you start your tenancy with confidence and peace of mind.

What Are Oregon’s Bedbug Disclosure Requirements?

Oregon law sets clear rules for landlords renting out apartments or houses. If a landlord knows that a unit is infested or has recently been treated for bedbugs, they must notify incoming tenants prior to move-in, according to Oregon Revised Statutes: ORS Chapter 90 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act^[1].

• Written Notice: Landlords must give a written disclosure if any dwelling unit or adjacent unit has had bedbug activity in the last 30 days.
• Inspection and Documentation: If asked, landlords should show documentation of inspection and any pest control work performed.

If you suspect a bedbug issue and didn’t receive proper disclosure, you have legal options to protect your health and living conditions.

Obligations of Landlords and Tenants

Both parties share responsibility for maintaining a safe, habitable rental. Here’s what each must do:

• Landlords: Must disclose infestations, act on reports from tenants, and pay for extermination—unless you, as a tenant, caused the problem through lack of cleanliness or actions.
• Tenants: Need to report suspected bedbugs right away and cooperate with inspections and treatment. You must follow instructions given for bedbug eradication (like cleaning or prepping rooms).

Failing to meet these responsibilities may affect your rights or ability to demand repairs and legal remedies.

Moving In: Steps for Renters

• Ask the landlord (in writing) if the unit or building has a current or recent bedbug infestation.
• Request any available pest inspection report or treatment documentation.
• Inspect your apartment when you move in. Note any pest concerns on your move-in condition checklist.
• Report any signs of bedbugs to your landlord immediately.

Relevant Forms: Bedbug Disclosure and Inspection Checklists

• Oregon Bedbug Disclosure Form
  (No official state-numbered form. Many landlords use a Bedbug Disclosure template based on ORS 90.322.)
  When and How Used: Your landlord should provide this form before you sign your lease if there's been recent or active bedbug activity. Example: If your rental or a neighboring unit was treated for bedbugs in the last 30 days, you must receive this disclosure and, if offered, related inspection reports.
  Where to Find: Ask your landlord; see the state’s requirements at ORS 90.322 - Bedbug disclosure requirements.
• Move-In Condition Report (Checklist Template)
  When and How Used: Complete this with your landlord at move-in and make specific notes if you see bedbug signs. Example: If you find suspicious stains or bugs in the bedroom, document it immediately on your checklist.
  Where to Find: Download from Oregon's official housing agency at the Oregon State Bar's Tenant Protections resource page.

What to Do If You Discover Bedbugs After Moving In

If you find bedbugs after moving in:

• Notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible.
• Cooperate with inspections and any extermination process.
• Keep documentation of your communication and any costs incurred.
• If the landlord does not respond, you may file a complaint or seek mediation.

Who Oversees Rental Disputes in Oregon?

Disputes between landlords and tenants—including bedbug-related claims—are handled by the Oregon Judicial Department’s Landlord-Tenant Court (part of your county Circuit Court system).

Key Bedbug Legislation in Oregon

All rules around disclosures and remedies for bedbug infestations are found in ORS 90.322 (Bedbugs) and the broader Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

FAQs: Bedbug Laws and Your Rights in Oregon

1. Are Oregon landlords required to disclose past bedbug outbreaks?
   Yes, landlords must disclose in writing if any unit has been affected by bedbugs within 30 days of your move-in.
2. What happens if bedbugs are discovered after I move in?
   Report it to your landlord immediately. They must inspect and, if necessary, treat the unit at their expense—unless you caused the problem.
3. Can I break my lease if the landlord doesn't fix a bedbug problem?
   If the infestation makes your unit uninhabitable and the landlord fails to resolve it after written notice, Oregon law may permit you to end your lease—always consult the legislation or seek legal advice first.
4. Do I need to let professional exterminators enter my unit?
   Yes, cooperation is required. If treatments are necessary, you need to allow access and follow their preparation instructions.
5. Where can I get official forms or more information on my rights?
   Access forms and resources at the Oregon Housing and Community Services or the Oregon Judicial Department Landlord-Tenant Court.

Key Takeaways for Oregon Renters

• Landlords in Oregon must give a clear, written bedbug disclosure if there's a current or recent problem.
• Tenants should always report suspected bedbug activity promptly and document all communications.
• You have the right to a safe, habitable rental—and to contact official agencies for unresolved complaints.

Being informed empowers you to protect your health and rental investment as you settle into your new Oregon home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• ORS 90.322 Bedbugs - State Statute
• Oregon Judicial Department Landlord-Tenant Court – File disputes or seek court info
• Oregon Housing and Community Services – Guides, checklists, and info for tenants
• Oregon State Bar: Tenant Protections – Legal guidance and FAQs

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1. Oregon Revised Statutes: ORS 90.322 - Bedbugs
2. Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
3. Oregon Judicial Department Landlord-Tenant Court
4. Oregon Housing and Community Services - Landlord/Tenant Resources

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