If you’ve discovered bed bugs in a rental property, you’re not alone, and you’re not the first. These unwelcome pests are on the rise across the UK, and in places with high turnover like rented accommodation, infestations can spread fast.
Whether you’re a tenant or a landlord, knowing how to handle a bed bug problem quickly and properly is vital. In this article, The Letting Experts, share our practical tips to help deal with bed bugs in a calm and effective way.
Bed bugs are small, flat insects that feed on human blood, usually at night. They're not dangerous in a medical sense, but their bites can cause irritation, sleep disruption and significant distress. Left unchecked, they can multiply rapidly and spread between rooms or even neighbouring properties. They’re commonly transported in luggage, second-hand furniture, or clothing, making rented homes a frequent hotspot.
This can be a tricky area and often depends on timing. Generally:
That said, each case should be assessed individually. The best results often come when both parties work together to fix the problem swiftly.
Catching an infestation early makes a huge difference. Look out for:
Tenants should always report any signs immediately to their landlord or letting agent.
If you suspect bed bugs, act fast. Here’s what you can do right away:
Most importantly, report the issue as soon as possible so a professional can assess the situation.
When a tenant reports a suspected infestation, it’s important to:
If you work with a property management company like The Letting Experts, this process will usually be managed on your behalf, keeping communication smooth and solutions prompt.
While no method is foolproof, a few good habits can help reduce the chances of an infestation:
At The Letting Experts, we help landlords avoid costly problems like bed bugs by managing tenancies proactively.
As a trusted property management company, we make sure that issues like this are dealt with quickly, professionally, and with care for all parties involved.
If you’re looking for a property to rent or you are a landlord with a property to let, working with an experienced company like The Letting Experts can give you peace of mind when it comes to pest problems, maintenance, and everything in between.
Contact The Letting Experts today on 0333 344 99 15 or email us at hello@thelettingexperts.co.uk. We’re here to help you with minimum fuss.
In the meantime, we’ve answered some of your common questions about bed bugs.
No. Bed bugs don’t care how clean a home is. They’re attracted to body heat and carbon dioxide, not dirt.
Yes, especially in blocks of flats or HMOs. That’s why fast action is important.
In most cases, no. DIY treatments are usually ineffective and may spread the infestation.
It depends on the severity, but usually two to three visits are needed for complete eradication.