Two California cities have made the list of top 50 bed bug cities in the United States, according to Orkin’s annual ranking released earlier this year. Los Angeles claimed the fifth spot, while San Francisco dropped to 41st place from 22nd the previous year.

The list, based on treatment data from the metro areas where Orkin performed the most bed bug treatments between Dec. 1, 2022, and Nov. 30, 2023, highlights the ongoing need for California landlords to remain proactive in preventing and addressing bed bug infestations in their rental properties.

Bed bugs are small, nocturnal insects that feed on human blood and can easily travel from place to place by clinging to items like luggage and personal belongings. These pests can be difficult to control due to their resilience and ability to survive for months without a blood meal.

To help landlords navigate the legal requirements surrounding bed bug infestations, the California Apartment Association has created a comprehensive background paper for its members titled “Bed Bugs and Residential Rental Property.” The paper outlines landlords’ responsibilities, tenants’ obligations, and best practices for preventing and addressing bed bug issues in compliance with California law.

CAA recommends that landlords promptly respond to tenant reports of infestations and work with licensed pest control professionals to treat affected units. Additionally, landlords should educate their tenants on bed bug prevention and reporting procedures.

Tenants can help prevent bed bug infestations by regularly inspecting their belongings, reporting any suspicious bites or sightings to their landlord immediately, and cooperating with bed bug treatment efforts.

For more information on landlords’ legal obligations and best practices regarding bed bugs, visit CAA’s “Bed bugs and Residential Rental Property” Industry Insights paper.