Does Renters Insurance Cover Bed Bugs?

Does insurance cover bed bugs? Usually not. Most renters and homeowners insurance policies exclude damage from insects and pests, including bed bugs. That means extermination, replacing furniture and bedding, and hotel stays during treatment usually aren't covered. Landlords, hotels and property managers face a different risk: claims from tenants and guests. This guide covers both.

Why Doesn't Renters Insurance Cover Bed Bugs?

Renters and landlord insurance policies are built for sudden, accidental damage, like a fire or a burst pipe. A bed bug infestation builds over weeks or months, and insurers see it as preventable with regular inspections and pest control. That's why bed bugs are listed as an exclusion on most open-peril and named-peril policies.

Under most renters policies, these usually aren't covered:

1. Extermination and treatment
2. Replacing furniture, mattresses, bedding or clothing
3. Damage the bed bugs cause
4. Hotel stays or other housing during treatment

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Bed Bugs?

Usually not. Homeowners policies have the same insect and pest exclusion as renters policies, so treatment and replacement costs usually fall on the owner. A few insurers sell a pest endorsement, but it's uncommon and limits are often low.

Is Your Landlord Responsible for Bed Bugs?

It depends on your state and local laws, and on your lease. In many places, landlords must keep rentals livable, which can include pest control. A landlord may be responsible if:

1. They didn't keep up the home, vacation rental or hotel
2. They knew about an infestation before you moved in and didn't treat it
3. They let an infestation get so bad that you lost property or had to move out

If a landlord is responsible, the process usually looks like this:

1. The landlord inspects the unit, or has a licensed pest control company confirm the bed bugs.
2. The landlord works with the tenant to clean or replace infested items, like bedding or a mattress.
3. The landlord hires a professional exterminator to treat the unit.

If a landlord or hotel refuses to pay for treatment they're responsible for, check your local tenant laws or talk with a legal professional.

How Do You Get Rid of Bed Bugs?

Most infestations need a professional exterminator. Tenants and landlords can help the treatment work:

1. Wash bedding and clothing in hot water and dry them on high heat, then seal them in plastic bags. Seal anything you can't wash.
2. Vacuum furniture, carpets and rugs, then seal and throw away the vacuum contents right away.
3. Replace sofas or mattresses that can't be treated.
4. Clear out clutter like magazines, newspapers and cardboard boxes.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has more guidance on preparing for treatment.

Can You Prevent an Infestation?

The same habits help prevent bed bugs: keep clutter down and inspect secondhand furniture. When you travel, check the bed in your hotel or vacation rental for bugs and eggs. After a trip, inspect your luggage and wash your clothes right away.

How Much Does Bed Bug Extermination Cost?

It depends on how far the infestation has spread, the size of the home and the treatment method. Heat treatment and multiple visits cost more. Many pest control companies offer a free inspection and a written quote.

Does Bed Bug Insurance Exist?

Yes, but it's uncommon. Some insurers offer bed bug or pest coverage as an endorsement on landlord, hotel or vacation rental policies. It's rare on renters policies. Where it's offered, it can help with extermination costs and lost rental income, usually up to a set limit.

What Insurance Do Landlords and Hotels Carry for Bed Bugs?

For businesses, the bigger risk is a claim from a tenant or guest. Coverage that can help includes:

1. General liability insurance: Can cover claims that a guest or tenant was bitten or lost property, including legal defense. Some policies exclude bed bugs, so check the exclusions.
2. Pest or bed bug endorsement: Can help cover extermination and cleanup costs, up to a set limit.
3. Business interruption insurance: May help replace lost income if units or rooms can't be rented. Many policies require physical damage, so an infestation alone may not qualify.

Businesses that often look at this coverage include hotels, landlords, property managers and vacation rental owners. Pest control companies carry their own liability coverage for treatment work.

How Does Tivly Match Me With a Licensed Partner?

Tivly matches small businesses, including landlords, hotels and property managers, with 450+ licensed partners in all 50 states. It's free to use. Complete the form at the top of the page, and a Tivly specialist will reach out to match you with a licensed partner. Or call 877-907-5267 to speak with a representative.