Bedbug Disclosure Rules for Renters in Pennsylvania

If you’re moving into a rental apartment in Pennsylvania, bedbugs might not be the first thing on your mind. But understanding your rights around bedbug disclosure and inspections can help you feel safer and more in control. This guide explains Pennsylvania’s current rules so you know what your landlord is required to do and what you can expect as a renter.

Do Pennsylvania Landlords Have to Disclose Bedbug Problems?

As of 2024, there is no statewide law in Pennsylvania that specifically requires landlords to disclose a history of bedbugs before renting an apartment. Unlike some other states, Pennsylvania has not passed special bedbug disclosure statutes. This means the requirements may vary depending on your city, county, or lease terms.

However, landlords in Pennsylvania must still follow general habitability laws—Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act (68 P.S. § 250.505)—that require providing a safe and sanitary home.^[1] Bedbug infestations can violate these standards. Some cities, like Philadelphia, have their own local rules about pest control and disclosure. Check with your local housing department for details.

Local Rules and Best Practices

• Philadelphia: No specific citywide bedbug disclosure ordinance as of 2024, but property owners must maintain apartments safe and free from pests as required by the Philadelphia Department of Licenses & Inspections.
• Other Areas: Always review your lease; some landlords include bedbug addendums that outline what happens if an infestation is found.

Your Rights When Moving In

Even without a specific bedbug disclosure law, Pennsylvania renters have general rights to a habitable, clean rental unit. The landlord is responsible for making sure the apartment is fit to live in at move-in, which typically means free of pests. If you find any signs of bedbugs right away, report them to your landlord promptly and in writing.

What to Do If You Suspect Bedbugs

• Inspect your new apartment when you move in. Look for live bugs, shed skins, spots on mattresses, and bites.
• Report Issues Promptly: Notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible if you notice potential bedbug activity.
• Request Action: Ask your landlord to inspect and, if necessary, treat the unit using a licensed pest control professional.
• Document Everything: Keep copies of messages, photos, and inspection reports.

While there is no official "Bedbug Disclosure" form for Pennsylvania, you may use your written communication as evidence if a dispute arises. If your landlord does not respond, you can file a complaint with your city’s code enforcement or health department.

Relevant Official Forms

• Philadelphia: L&I Complaint Form – Use to report unresolved pest or bedbug issues in rental units within Philadelphia.
  Example: If your landlord ignores your written bedbug complaint, submit this form to request an inspection.
  Philadelphia L&I Property Complaint

No statewide bedbug disclosure or inspection forms exist. Always keep your own written records and ask your landlord for any specific documentation related to pests.

What Agency Handles Tenant Complaints?

There is no single tenant-landlord tribunal in Pennsylvania. For city-specific issues, contact your local housing code office or the Philadelphia Department of Licenses & Inspections (for Philadelphia residents). For county-level concerns, reach out to your county’s property maintenance code office or health department.

Pennsylvania Tenant Rights and Legislation

• Main law: Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act (68 P.S. § 250.505)
• Cities may have additional ordinances. Check with your local government website for updates.

FAQ: Pennsylvania Renters and Bedbug Disclosures

1. Are landlords in Pennsylvania legally required to tell new tenants about past bedbug infestations?
   There is no statewide law requiring this disclosure. Some local rules or leases may include bedbug information, but check your city’s requirements and read your rental agreement.
2. What should I do if I find bedbugs after moving in?
   Inform your landlord in writing right away, include photos or evidence, and ask for prompt treatment. If they fail to act, contact your local health department or housing code office.
3. Can I break my lease if my apartment has bedbugs?
   Possibly—if the infestation makes the unit uninhabitable and your landlord does not address it after notice. Seek legal advice or call your local housing department before moving out.
4. Is there a specific form to file a bedbug complaint in Pennsylvania?
   There is no statewide form. In Philadelphia, you can use the L&I Property Complaint. For other areas, contact your code enforcement office.
5. Who pays for bedbug extermination?
   Generally, landlords are responsible when infestations exist at move-in or if the problem is widespread in the building. Details can depend on your lease and local codes.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• There is no statewide bedbug disclosure law in Pennsylvania, but your landlord must provide safe, pest-free housing.
• Report bedbug problems in writing as soon as possible, and keep records of all responses.
• Local rules may vary—contact your city or county housing office for details and complaint forms.

Check your lease and act quickly if you suspect bedbugs—you have the right to a healthy home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Pennsylvania Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Complaints
• Philadelphia Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I)
• PA Legal Aid Network – Find Legal Help
• PA Landlord and Tenant Act (68 P.S. § 250.505)

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1. See: Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act (68 P.S. § 250.505)

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