Virginia Bedbug Disclosure Rules for Renters

If you’re preparing to move into an apartment in Virginia or have concerns about bedbugs, it’s important to know your legal rights. Virginia law has specific requirements for both landlords and tenants related to bedbug disclosures, inspections, and treatment. Here’s what all renters in Virginia need to know to protect themselves and their home.

Your Rights as a Renter: Bedbug Disclosures and Inspections in Virginia

Bedbugs are considered a public health concern, and state rules aim to ensure safe, habitable living spaces. Virginia’s laws set clear duties for landlords to disclose past bedbug problems, provide written reports when bedbugs are found, and follow specific protocols for inspections and treatment.

• Disclosure Requirement: Landlords must notify tenants in writing within five business days if bedbugs are found in a rental unit.
• Inspection & Remediation: After a tenant reports a possible bedbug infestation, the landlord is required to inspect and, if necessary, treat the dwelling promptly.
• Notification: Written notice of a positive bedbug identification must be given to all tenants in affected units.

These requirements are established in the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA) ^[1].

What Landlords Must Disclose About Bedbugs

By law, landlords must provide written notification to each tenant in the building if bedbugs are discovered in any individual rental unit or common area. The notice should state:

• The date bedbugs were found
• The location of the infestation (specific unit or area)
• Actions being taken to address the situation

This transparency helps prevent bedbug spread throughout the property and empowers renters to take precautions.

Official Forms for Bedbug Disclosures and Complaints

While there is no standardized state-wide "Bedbug Disclosure Form," the notification must be in writing as specified by Virginia law. For renters needing to take further action (such as reporting unaddressed bedbug issues), you can use the following:

• Virginia Office of the Attorney General Consumer Complaint Form
  When and how to use: If your landlord fails to disclose or treat a bedbug infestation, you may submit this form to the state for investigation. Download, complete, and send the Consumer Complaint Form directly to the Office of the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Section.

For disputes needing legal intervention, cases are typically heard in General District Court, which serves as Virginia’s tribunal for residential tenancy disputes.

What to Do If You Find Bedbugs in Your Virginia Apartment

If you suspect or discover bedbugs, acting quickly is important. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Notify your landlord in writing as soon as you notice signs or have concerns about bedbugs.
• Cooperate fully with access for inspections and treatment by licensed pest management professionals.
• Keep documentation (emails, notices, photos) related to the infestation and the landlord’s response.
• If the landlord does not respond promptly, you may file a complaint with the Virginia Office of the Attorney General or consult the General District Court about your rights.

Legal Definitions Under Virginia Law

According to the VRLTA, "bedbug" includes all stages of Cimex lectularius (common bedbug) and Cimex hemipterus. Inspection and remediation must be handled in accordance with Section 55.1-1220 of the VRLTA ^[2].

Virginia Bedbug Laws: Key Points for Renters

• Landlords must give written bedbug notices to tenants when applicable
• Prompt inspection, identification, and remediation are required
• Tenants should not be charged for treatment unless proven responsible for the infestation
• Renters can seek help from state agencies if the landlord fails to comply

Being informed about these laws helps maintain a habitable and safe living environment.

FAQ: Virginia Bedbug Disclosure for Apartments

1. Do landlords in Virginia have to tell new tenants if there has been a bedbug problem?
   Yes. If bedbugs are found in a unit or common area, landlords must provide written notice to all tenants in affected areas within five business days.
2. Am I responsible for paying for bedbug treatments in my apartment?
   Typically, landlords are required to pay for remediation unless it can be shown that the tenant caused the infestation through negligent actions.
3. What if my landlord ignores my bedbug report?
   If your landlord does not respond to your written notification, you can file a complaint with the Virginia Office of the Attorney General or contact the local General District Court for dispute resolution.
4. Is there an official form to use when notifying my landlord about bedbugs?
   No specific state-mandated form is required. However, always provide written notice (email, letter) and keep a copy for your records.
5. Which Virginia agency can help if I need legal support?
   The General District Court handles landlord-tenant disputes, and the Virginia Office of the Attorney General offers a complaint process for consumer protection issues.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Virginia Renters

• Landlords must provide timely bedbug disclosures and handle treatment
• Renters should report suspected bedbugs promptly and keep records
• Official state resources and complaint forms are available if your rights are not respected

Staying informed is your best defense against complex rental situations involving bedbugs or other habitability issues.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Official text of the relevant legislation
• General District Court – Landlord/Tenant Proceedings – How to resolve disputes
• Virginia Office of the Attorney General: File a Complaint – State consumer protection contact and forms
• Virginia Renters’ Rights – State Renter Information

---

1. Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA), Section 55.1-1220, Virginia General Assembly
2. Section 55.1-1227: Landlord to maintain fit premises, VRLTA

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