MA S999

Establishes notification requirements for bed bug infestations in multi-unit dwellings, requiring tenants to immediately notify owners in writing upon discovering bed bugs and owners to inspect within 5 business days

Requires owners to hire a certified pesticide applicator within 10 business days of learning of an infestation and continue treatment until no bed bug activity is observed for 30 days

Mandates owners inspect and provide written verification that units are bed bug-free before signing new lease agreements; tenants are not liable for infestations confirmed within 30 days if verification was not provided

Holds tenants liable for actual and consequential damages if they fail to provide access, interfere with extermination, or refuse to follow applicator protocols; owners may seek injunctive relief to remove non-compliant tenants during treatment

Requires the Department of Public Health to create a bed bug information sheet in English and Spanish that owners must provide to tenants at lease signing, covering identification, risk factors, and legal rights