HPD Bedbug Filing

In New York City, the problem of bedbugs is taken seriously due to their distressing presence and the rapidity with which they can infest multiple units in residential buildings. The New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) plays a crucial role in managing this issue, particularly through the enforcement of Local Law 69 of 2017, which mandates the annual reporting of bedbug infestation history by property owners. See the Step-by-Step Guide here, Checkout NYC Bedbug App to see bedbug reports of any address in NYC.

The HPD bedbug reporting process is an essential component of New York City’s strategy to control bedbug infestations. By requiring annual reports and maintaining strict compliance with eradication measures, the city aims to protect its residents and maintain the habitability of its vast housing stock. For property owners, understanding and participating in this process is not just about legal compliance but about fostering a healthier living environment for all tenants.

Annual Bedbug Reporting Requirement

Property owners of multiple dwelling units are legally required to attempt to gather and report the bedbug infestation history from all units. This includes whether any eradication measures were employed. This annual reporting helps maintain transparency and ensures that potential and current tenants are well-informed about the history and current status of infestations in their building​​.

Process for Property Owners

To comply with the law, property owners must file the Bedbug Annual Report between December 1 and December 31 for the period covering the previous year from November through October. This report is filed online via the HPD portal. Failure to file this report can lead to violations being issued by the HPD​​.

Disclosure to Tenants

Once the report is filed, property owners are required to distribute a copy of the filing receipt to each tenant upon the commencement of a new lease or with each lease renewal. Alternatively, they can post the filing receipt in a prominent location within the building. This ensures that all tenants are aware of the building's bedbug history and the measures taken to address any issues​​.

Handling Violations and Inspections

If bedbugs are found during an inspection or reported by a tenant, the HPD issues a Notice of Violation (NOV) to the property owner. This notice demands that the owner addresses the infestation promptly. Property owners are required to inspect the affected units and adjacent areas, employ a licensed pest control professional, and take necessary steps to eradicate the infestation. Compliance with these directives must be documented and certified back to the HPD to confirm that the problem has been appropriately addressed​​​​.

Support and Resources

HPD offers various resources for property owners and tenants, including access to online portals for reporting and certification, as well as informational guides on how to manage and prevent bedbug infestations effectively. Property owners can also seek technical advice from HPD on how to correct violations and meet the city’s health and safety standards​​.