Who Is Responsible for Pest Control When Renting in NYC?

⏱ 3 min read

Quick answer: In New York City, the landlord is generally responsible for keeping rental housing free of pests under the Housing Maintenance Code — owners of multiple dwellings must keep the premises pest-free and arrange extermination as needed. Tenants are expected to keep their unit reasonably clean and report infestations promptly. Landlords must also give tenants an annual bed-bug history disclosure (Local Law 69). If a landlord won’t act, tenants can call 311 and file an HPD complaint. (This is general information, not legal advice.)

What the landlord is responsible for

Under the NYC Housing Maintenance Code, owners of multiple dwellings must keep the building and apartments free from pests (including rodents, cockroaches, and bed bugs) and take reasonable measures to exterminate them. Practically, that means the landlord is usually the one who must arrange and pay for professional pest control when there’s an infestation that isn’t the tenant’s fault. Local Law 55 (the Asthma-Free Housing Act) also requires owners to address indoor allergen hazards, including pests, in a safe, low-exposure way.

What the tenant is responsible for

Tenants generally must keep their unit reasonably clean and sanitary, avoid conditions that attract pests (uncontained food, garbage, heavy clutter), report problems to the landlord promptly and in writing, and cooperate with treatment (preparation, access). If an infestation is clearly caused by a tenant’s own conditions, responsibility can shift — but the baseline duty to keep housing habitable rests with the owner.

Bed bugs: the annual disclosure (Local Law 69)

NYC landlords must provide tenants an annual bed-bug history disclosure showing any bed-bug infestation and treatment over the past year, and must file an annual report with HPD. This helps renters know a building’s history before and during a lease. For more on the laws, see our NYC pest-control laws & building compliance hub and landlord responsibilities guide.

What to do if your landlord won’t address pests

Report the problem to your landlord in writing and keep records. If they don’t act in a reasonable time, you can call 311 or file a complaint with HPD, which can inspect and issue violations. Document the issue with dated photos and copies of your requests. Because remedies and timelines vary by situation, consider speaking with a tenant-rights resource for your specific case.

Landlord, property manager, or tenant who needs it handled right? New York Exterminating works with NYC buildings and tenants on documented, low-exposure treatment that meets city requirements, led by an Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE). Call (347) 210-4646 or see our multi-unit / property management service.

Pest Control & Renting in NYC — FAQ

Is the landlord or tenant responsible for pest control in NYC?

Generally the landlord, under the Housing Maintenance Code, must keep rental housing pest-free and arrange extermination. Tenants must keep the unit clean, report promptly, and cooperate with treatment.

Does my landlord have to pay for an exterminator?

In most cases yes, when the infestation isn’t caused by the tenant’s own conditions. Responsibility can shift if the tenant created the problem.

What is the NYC bed bug disclosure law?

Local Law 69 requires landlords to give tenants an annual bed-bug history disclosure and file an annual report with HPD.

What can I do if my landlord ignores a pest problem?

Report it in writing, keep records, and if there’s no action, call 311 or file an HPD complaint. HPD can inspect and issue violations.