The proposed bill introduces a new chapter, Chapter 104, titled "Bed Bugs in Residential Premises Act," to Title 23 of the General Laws concerning health and safety. This chapter outlines the responsibilities of landlords and tenants regarding the notification, inspection, and treatment of bed bugs in residential units. It mandates that tenants must promptly notify their landlords via written or electronic notice if they know or reasonably suspect the presence of bed bugs. Upon receiving such notice, landlords are required to act within 96 hours to obtain an inspection of the dwelling unit by a pest control agent and may enter the unit or any contiguous unit for this purpose.

If the inspection confirms the presence of bed bugs, landlords must also inspect all contiguous dwelling units as soon as reasonably practical. The bill specifies that landlords are responsible for all costs associated with inspections and treatments for bed bugs, while tenants are required to comply with reasonable measures for preparing their units for inspection and treatment. Tenants who fail to comply with these requirements may be liable for the costs of treatments that arise from their noncompliance.

Additionally, the bill prohibits landlords from offering for rent any dwelling unit that they know or reasonably suspect contains bed bugs and requires them to disclose any known history of bed bug infestations to prospective tenants. The bill also includes provisions for remedies and liabilities for both landlords and tenants in cases of noncompliance.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 45-24.3-6 of the General Laws to require all owners or occupants of dwellings to comply with the new bed bug regulations. The act is set to take effect upon passage, establishing clear guidelines for both parties involved in maintaining pest-free living conditions.

Statutes affected:
200: 45-24.3-6