One of the challenging aspects of navigating life as a renter in New York is affordable housing. For many renters in the city, trying to thrive while juggling work, grad school, or even a side hustle, can be difficult. In the city that never sleeps, it is easy to get caught up in the hustle & bustle of things and forget about the nagging issues you're facing every day.
So here's the story
It was a pleasant surprise finding a reasonably priced apartment in Harlem. It's a four-floor walk up, but I'm young so, I can handle it. Wooden floors, new bathroom and a decent kitchen, I started to wonder if this was too good to be true.
About four months in my dream apartment bliss came crashing to a screeching halt. Bedbugs were all over my mattress! Somehow, I did not get any bites. As a result, I thought I was in the clear. However, I was very mistaken. Like most millennials, I immediately searched the gram for #NYC Bedbug and was hit with thousands of results. Not always the most pragmatic problem solver, I texted my landlord. After waiting an hour, I called, and still, no response. Going back to sleep wasn't an option, so I went back online for more guidance.
Here's how to get rid of bedbugs in NYC:
- Review your lease agreement and or renter's rights to view qualification requirements for assistance. According to NYC tenants rights, Its the landlord's obligation to remove bed bugs.
- Depending on the furniture you might be able to preserve it with vacuuming & steaming. However, the vacuum bags must be secure, and the steamer must emit 180 degrees Fahrenheit.
- On the other hand, if the furniture must be discarded it's imperative that it is wrapped in plastic wrap.
- As a reminder, your landlord has 30 days to remove the bed bug infestation. In some cases, they may also have to inspect and clean apartments above and underneath you.
- In addition, if not done so previously have maintenance seal any open cracks or crevices, so you do not have a repeat visit.
I also discovered that preventative measures could be taken before moving. The Bedbug registry website is an excellent resource that can verify bedbug infestation by hotel name and/or address. Furthermore, the site nyc.gov has excellent information on tenants rights and prevention tips. If you have a similar story to share, send your submission here
Interested in learning more about important state-by-state information in regards to landlord-tenant laws? Click below to view more information from " Fit Small Business."
Landlord Tenant Law: Overview with State by State Interactive Map
