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SB 908 - Bed Bug Eradication Act
Senator Farnese (Philadelphia County) has introduced a Senate Bill 908 to the Senate Urban Affairs and Housing Committee called the Bedbug Eradication Act which would require with certain exceptions, multi-unit and hotel owners to eradicate bedbugs and provide bedbug free living spaces at the owners' expense.
Tenants or guests who feel there may be a bedbug infestation must inform the owner in writing. Hotel guests may inform the management verbally or in writing. The owner must: (1) Commence eradication procedures (2) Arrange for a professional applicator to inspect other units for bedbugs (3) Provide written notice to tenants or guests with bedbugs and begin eradication procedures in those units. Similar procedures are applicable to hotels. Enforcement powers and duties are placed on the Department of Agriculture. The owner of a multiunit dwelling must provide for inspection 30 days prior to a new tenant leasing the unit or a renewal lease. If bedbugs are found, eradication procedures must be commenced. Hotels must have a professional applicator inspect the hotel at least three times per year. Certification of inspection must be given to lessees and guests. After a lease, the owner of a multiunit dwelling may inspect the unit and deduct the costs of eradication from a tenant's security deposit if the tenant failed to produce written notice of a possible bedbug infestation. The department must also provide an informational brochure regarding bedbugs, which must be provided to tenants and guests. Civil penalties and procedure are provided for PTLA is working with the Greater Philadelphia Hotel Association to sit down with Senator Farnese and discuss the industry's concerns with the bill and also share the proactive approach that most properties are already taking to address these issues. We would encourage you to reach out to your Senators and share your concerns with them on this legislation. |
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