NYC Bedbug Trends

Key Years:

• 2000: Bedbugs Infestation peaks in NYC

• 2010:  Bedbugs come back, CDC and EPA called it "alarming resurgence"

• 2017: NYC Local Law 69 passed to mandate Bedbug reporting.

Checkout NYC Bedbug App to see bedbug reports of any address in NYC.

Over the past few decades, New York City has experienced a significant resurgence of bedbug infestations, a trend mirroring global patterns observed in other major urban centers. The decline of bedbug populations in the mid-20th century, largely due to the use of pesticides like DDT, gave way to a dramatic comeback by the late 1990s and early 2000s. Factors contributing to this resurgence include increased international travel, urban density, and the insects' growing resistance to conventional pesticides.

The Rise of Bedbugs in NYC

Bedbugs made a notable return to New York City around the turn of the century. By 2010, the situation had escalated to such an extent that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a joint statement warning of an "alarming resurgence" of these pests. Reports indicate that infestations in some areas have risen exponentially, highlighting the challenge of controlling such pests in a densely populated metropolis​ (Department of Entomology)​.

Regulatory Responses

In response to the persistent problem, New York City has implemented specific laws to manage and mitigate bedbug infestations effectively. Local Law 69 of 2017 is a pivotal regulation requiring all multiple dwelling property owners to obtain and disclose bedbug infestation histories annually, click for more information. This law mandates that owners provide a bedbug history report to new tenants and renewing tenants, detailing previous infestations and eradication efforts.

The regulation is designed to increase transparency and accountability, ensuring that tenants are well-informed about past infestations and that landlords take proactive measures to prevent future outbreaks. This includes keeping a documented history of any actions taken to eradicate bedbugs and the outcomes of such measures.

Looking Forward

Despite these regulatory efforts, the fight against bedbugs in New York City continues. The bedbug's ability to develop resistance to many traditional pesticides has made eradication increasingly difficult. This challenge is compounded by the high rate of human traffic in and out of the city, which often aids the spread of these pests.

As New York City moves forward, the focus remains on improving detection, prevention, and education to manage bedbug infestations more effectively. Residents and property owners must stay vigilant and adhere to guidelines set forth by health and housing departments to keep their environments bedbug-free.