Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals, usually at night. While they do not spread disease, their bites can cause itchy welts, skin infections from scratching, and stress, including anxiety or trouble sleeping. Generally, GCHD does not investigate bed bug infestations. 

How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs

Bed bugs can be difficult to eliminate on your own. Some steps you can take include:

• Washing and drying bedding, clothing, and other fabrics at high temperatures.
• Vacuuming regularly and disposing of the vacuum bag carefully.
• Sealing cracks and crevices where bed bugs might hide.

The most effective approach is integrated pest management, which usually involves hiring a licensed pest control company experienced in bed bug treatment.

Landlord/Tenant Responsibilities 

Under the Landlord-Tenant Act, RCW 59.18, landlords are responsible for ensuring rental units are free from bed bug infestations at the time of move-in and for arranging proper pest control unless the infestation is proven to have been caused by the tenant.