A new law in New York will soon require landlords to notify tenants about bedbug infestations within their buildings, establishing specific timelines and methods for informing tenants about the unwelcome pests.
The law, which Governor Kathy Hochul signed last week, mandates that landlords provide written notice to tenants in close proximity to an infestation or those at risk. If the issue spreads to common areas, landlords may post a public notice instead. The requirements mark a compromise from the bill’s original draft, which called for notifying all tenants within 24 hours. Following negotiations, Hochul extended the notification period to 72 hours and narrowed the scope of written notices.
“I have reached an agreement with the Legislature to enact these changes in the upcoming session,” Hochul wrote in her approval message. “On this basis, I am pleased to sign this bill into law.”
The new statewide measure builds on existing laws already in place in New York City, where landlords are required to disclose a one-year history of bedbug infestations when renting out apartments. Set to take effect on December 22 (even though legislative amendments are set for approval in January), the law extends notification requirements to landlords across the state, ensuring that tenants remain informed about potential health and safety risks.
The bill, introduced by Bronx lawmakers Assemblymember Chantel Jackson and Senator Luis Sepulveda, was inspired by the widespread bedbug crisis of 2010, which disrupted daily life in New York City. “We had to wrap furniture, close movie theaters, and buy protective covers just to sleep at night,” Jackson said during a legislative debate. “This law simply asks landlords to keep tenants informed when infestations arise.”
While supporters view the law as a necessary step to protect tenants, it has faced criticism from some lawmakers. Assemblymember Andy Goodell of western New York argued that the bill places too much responsibility on landlords without ensuring tenant cooperation. “If tenants refuse to take basic steps, like washing bedding, landlords are left with nothing but notices saying, ‘Apartment 1A has bedbugs,’” Goodell said.
