Spells out the responsibilities of both the landlord and tenant with respect to the inspection and treatment of bed bugs in residential premises.

Rhode Island Bed Bugs in Residential Premises Act

This bill establishes clear rules for how landlords and tenants in Rhode Island must handle bed bug infestations in rental housing. It spells out specific responsibilities for both parties — what landlords are required to do to inspect and treat bed bug problems, and what tenants are expected to do to help prevent and report infestations. The goal is to create a consistent, shared approach to addressing bed bugs in apartments and other rental properties across the state.

For landlords, the bill likely requires them to respond to reported bed bug problems in a timely way, arrange for professional inspections or treatments when needed, and keep rental units in a condition that doesn't contribute to infestations. For tenants, the bill likely requires them to promptly notify their landlord if they spot signs of bed bugs, cooperate with inspections and treatment processes, and take reasonable steps to avoid making an infestation worse.

This bill would affect anyone who rents or owns residential rental property in Rhode Island — including apartment renters, house renters, and the landlords and property managers who oversee those units. It essentially gives both sides a clear set of expectations and protections, reducing confusion about who is responsible when a bed bug problem arises.

Currently, the bill has been introduced in the House and referred to the House Judiciary Committee, which has recommended it be held for further study. This means it has not yet passed into law and will undergo additional review before any further action is taken.