Quality of Life FAQ
from the NYC Rent Guidelines Board
Can my landlord demand I be present to let an exterminator in even if it means taking a day off from work?
So long as the landlord has provided reasonable notice and seeks access at reasonable times he or she probably could require you or someone you designate to be at the apartment to let the exterminator in. It is best to contact the landlord and try to arrange access at a mutually convenient time. If this fails, try and get someone you trust to allow the exterminator in and to monitor the work.
I have bed bugs in my apartment. How do I get rid of them?
If you have a bed bug problem, first report it to your landlord. Detailed information on what to do about eliminating them and to file a complaint with the City can be found in NYC Dept of Health’s Bedbug Basics. Bedbug Registry also has comprehensive information on bed bugs.
I have mice/roaches in my apartment. What should I do?
By law, your landlord must keep your apartment unit and building in safe and sanitary condition and conduct needed repairs in a timely manner. The City will issue violations to owners who do not properly maintain the property. You also have a responsibility to notify your landlord of conditions. You should document all contact with your landlord. In addition to filing a complaint with the City, you may seek assistance in Housing Court. Here are suggested steps:
- Call the super or owner of the building. Let them know there is a problem in the building and it is not being addressed.
- If the problem is not addressed promptly, let the owners know that you will file a Pest Control Complaint. Tell the owners you don’t want to take these actions, but if they don’t address the problem you have no choice.
- If the owners do not respond, follow through on the above.
- If the placement of violations fails to bring results you may bring what is known as an “HP” proceeding in housing court, to obtain an order for compliance. You may obtain information on these proceedings at the Civil Court of the City of New York. Or you may want to consult the Tenant’s Guide to Housing Court on our Legal Assistance page. Also take a look at our Repairs & Maintenance Frequently Asked Questions page for additional suggestions.
Is my landlord required to exterminate on a regular basis?
According to the City of New York’s Housing Maintenance Code (HMC), eradication of rodents or other pests means elimination through the use of traps, poisons, fumigation or any other method of extermination. The HMC states that an owner is required to keep premises free of rodents, and when the premises are subject to infestation, shall apply “continuous eradication measures.”
When the department charged with enforcement, in this case the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) determines that any premises are infested by rodents, it may order “such eradication measures as the department deems necessary.” To file a complaint, contact HPD.