Bed bugs are a nightmare — and in Ontario rentals, figuring out who's responsible can add to the stress. Here's what the law says.
The Short Answer: Landlord Pays
Under the Residential Tenancies Act, landlords are responsible for maintaining the rental unit in a good state of repair. This includes pest control, including bed bugs.
The landlord must:
- Hire a licensed pest control company
- Pay for all treatment costs
- Treat the entire building if the infestation has spread
- Follow up with additional treatments as needed
Tenant Responsibilities
While the landlord pays for treatment, tenants must:
- Report the problem promptly — in writing (email is fine)
- Cooperate with treatment — prepare the unit as instructed (laundering, bagging items, etc.)
- Allow access — let pest control enter with proper notice (24 hours written notice)
- Not bring in infested furniture — picking up mattresses from the curb is risky
Step-by-Step: What to Do
- Document the problem: Take photos of the bugs, bites, or evidence (blood spots on sheets)
- Notify your landlord in writing: Email or text — keep proof
- Give a reasonable deadline: 7-10 days for initial response
- If landlord acts: Cooperate with treatment — follow all preparation instructions
- If landlord ignores you: Contact your local public health unit for an inspection, then file a T6 Application with the LTB
Filing a T6 for Bed Bugs
If your landlord refuses to deal with bed bugs, file a T6 — Tenant Application about Maintenance. The LTB can order:
- The landlord to hire pest control immediately
- Rent abatement for the period you lived with bed bugs
- Compensation for expenses (laundering, replacing items, temporary housing)
Don't Suffer in Silence
You have legal rights. If your landlord won't act, the LTB will make them. Generate your T6 application in minutes.