Bats

[William R.]

A bat got into one of my units. The tenant wants me to have the bat tested for rabies. I plan to go remove the bat and seal up any possible points of entry. Is the testing of the bat something that could be covered by renters insurance? Anyone who's had this issue have any advice?

[Pearline DiBiasio]

If a bat has been spotted in your unit and you believe your tenant is at risk for rabies, then you can call your local public health. They will handle the rabies testing for the bat. Meaning, they will not charge you. HOWEVER, there are a few questions that you must answer prior to making the decision to call:

1) Has anyone been bitten or scratched, or came into direct contact with a salivating bat? Taken from the CDC "[Rabies] can also be transmitted when the saliva from a rabid animal comes in contact with a person's mouth, eyes, nose, or a fresh wound."

Yes - Call your local health department immediately.

No - See next question.

2) Was the bat simply flying overhead and had no direct contact with your conscious tenant or tenants? 

Yes - Then they're fine, make sure YOU are careful in the removal process.

No - See next question.

3) Did a tenant or tenants wake up in a room with a flying bat?

Yes - Once again, call your local health department immediately. Why? Tenants may have missed a possible bite or scratch. Bat bites are usually unnoticeable due to how tiny they are. Therefore, an examination would be fruitless.

No - See first two questions.

Bear in mind that rabies in humans is rare and most bats don't carry the disease. If you or your tenant believes that he/she has been bitten and you have successfully captured the bat for rabies testing, wait until you receive the test results before determining who will pay for rabies vaccination. Check the Personal Injury Coverage under Liability for both renter's and landlord's insurance policies. Most likely, the vaccination will be covered by the tenant's health insurance (hope they have one). Hope this wall of text helps!