Can I Sue My Florida Landlord Over Bed Bugs?

 Posted on March 23, 2024 in Personal Injury

As anyone who has experienced bed bugs first-hand can tell you, it is a horrible situation to deal with. Bed bugs can harm people not only physically but also psychologically, making them feel unsafe at home and particularly in their own beds, and they fall under an entire category of personal injury law known as premises liability. Bed bugs tend to be more stressful for renters who rely on their landlords to take care of the problem. If you are renting an apartment that has a bed bug infestation, speak with a knowledgeable Broward County, FL personal injury attorney to understand what recourse might be available to you.

What Damage Can Bed Bugs Cause?

Bed bugs are parasites that feed off of the blood of the people they bite. They are generally found in or near mattresses and tend to bite people as they sleep. Bed bug bites can be red, swollen, and sometimes painful or itchy. In the worst-case scenario, a bed bug bite can become infected, or someone bitten by a bed bug can have an allergic reaction.

In addition to the physical harm, bed bugs can have an emotional and psychological effect. If you have seen these parasites in your bed, it is reasonable for you to have a hard time getting a good night’s sleep in that bed. You might not be surprised to hear that many people in this situation present symptoms of psychological distress including anxiety, insomnia, and bad dreams. If the landlord takes too long to get the problem dealt with, tenants might end up wasting a great deal of money or time on their bed bug problem out of desperation. However, if it is the landlord’s responsibility, tenants should not need to cover the costs.

Does My Landlord Owe Me Anything?

If you are renting a home and you discover bed bugs, contact your landlord immediately and tell him or her what is happening. In the state of Florida, landlords are legally obligated to take steps to remedy the situation. If your landlord fails to do so, you might be able to take legal action.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Fort Lauderdale, FL Personal Injury Lawyer

If you find bed bugs in your rented apartment, speak with a skilled Fort Lauderdale, FL personal injury attorney who can review your case and tell you whether you are eligible for compensation for damages and other expenses. Call The Law Offices of John D. Ameen, P.A. at 800-555-4011 to schedule a free consultation.