Bed bug Clause

[Brian Kieser]

New Landlord, and considering a bedbug clause to the lease.  Heard it is something good to get into the lease, and that tenant pays if they bring in bed bugs during their lease.

Does anyone have a clause that they are comfortable with?

[Renee R.]

Here's what I have. 

Pests. The Tenant acknowledges that the Landlord has inspected the Premises and is aware of no rodents, bedbugs, or other infestations. The Tenant shall ensure that all personal property brought onto the Premises are pest free. The Tenant shall maintain reasonably proper housekeeping and cleanliness to avoid pest infestation. The Tenant shall notify the Landlord immediately of any pest infestation and cooperate with all necessary pest control efforts. If pest remediation is needed, the Tenant shall comply with proper preparation for treatment and prevention. The Landlord will not be held liable for any damages or loss of personal property as a result of a pest infestation or remediation.

Make sure you check your state laws regarding bed bugs. In NH, you can make them pay for remediation only if you can prove there has not been a bed bug issue in all adjacent units for the past 6 months and that their unit was bug free when they moved in.