Pest problems such as mice, cockroaches, and bed bugs aren’t just a nuisance, they’re a health and housing standards issue in Alberta. Who arranges and pays for pest control depends on whether you’re a landlord or a tenant.
If you own your home, you’re normally responsible for pest control and Poulin’s can help you.
Landlord Responsibilities
Landlords must provide and maintain rental properties that meet minimum housing and health standards, which include being free of insect, rodent, and pest infestations (e.g., mice, cockroaches, and bed bugs). When a tenant reports an infestation, the landlord needs to take prompt, reasonable steps, typically by engaging a licensed pest control company. In multi-unit buildings, adjacent units may need inspections and treatments to prevent pests from spreading.
Landlords generally pay for pest control treatment. If landlords can provide evidence that a tenant was responsible for a pest infestation (e.g., bringing in infested furniture, or not preparing/failing to follow instructions for treatment), they may apply for financial reimbursement.
Tenant Responsibilities and Protections
Tenants should write to their landlord to report any pest issues immediately. Tenants must keep the residence reasonably clean, allow access for repairs and pest control, and follow instructions for pest control to ensure treatments are successful. Failure to prepare can delay treatment and allow pests to spread.
If the landlord does not act, tenants can contact Alberta Health Services.
For More Information
For more information, contact Alberta’s Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).
How Poulin’s Pest Control Can Help You in Alberta
Whether you’re a landlord managing a property, a tenant looking for clear guidance, or a homeowner dealing with a persistent pest issue, Poulin’s Pest Control is here to help. Our team delivers reliable, professional treatments backed by decades of experience with mice, cockroaches, bed bugs, and other pests. We work with you, provide practical preparation checklists, offer inspections and treatments, and apply building-wide strategies to resolve a pest problem efficiently.
If you think you may have an infestation, don’t delay, contact Poulin’s Pest Control today.