It’s a common question. Are landlords responsible for removing pests?
Being a landlord is not as easy as you think. It takes hard work, a knowledge of the law, and a streamlined process of collecting rent, screening and managing tenants, managing the property, and other tasks. There is a reason many landlords choose to work with a property manager to help them ensure professional rental management on all fronts. A very common question landlords ask is, “Are landlords responsible for pest control?” We’ll take a look at what the rules are in Maryland.
Are Landlords Responsible for Pest Control in Maryland?
Landlords are indeed responsible for pest control in Maryland. They are responsible for addressing pest infestations when it affects more than one rental unit by law. This pest infestation would be one that the tenant did not cause.
What Are Landlords Responsible For?
Landlords are ultimately responsible to provide a habitable environment for tenants. The rental might not be perfect, potentially having small issues, but it should be secure and free of health and safety threats. The law lists a number of aspects of a rental that a landlord is responsible to provide and/or fix or replace. These responsibilities include the following:
- Mold remediation
- Pest infestation removal
- Properly locking doors
- Heating
- Plumbing
- Electricity
- Smoke/CO detectors
- Hot water
- A sound residential structure
Things Landlords Are Not Responsible For
Maryland landlords are not responsible for all aspects of running a residential rental. Things they are not legally responsible for are the following:
- Kitchen appliances
- Window treatments
- Air conditioning
- Laundry machines
- Landscaping
- Light fixtures
- Garbage pickup
- Garbage removal
Air conditioning is nice to have in most parts of Maryland, and it is still required by law for landlords to provide air conditioning if its absence threatens the tenant’s health. Otherwise, major household appliances and details like landscaping, window treatments, and lighting can be provided either by the landlord or the tenant.
Listening to Your Tenants
One major issue that makes a landlord a great or terrible one is communication. If the landlord is fair and prompt to listen to their tenants’ complaints and requests, not trying to blame them for damage automatically or ignoring them, then it is a landlord others will want to rent from.
Trust the Professionals at Clagett Enterprises for Your Realty Needs
If you’re looking for an experienced property management company, the perfect realtor for your property, or a professional to assist you during your purchase of any home, you can rely on Clagett Enterprises. Clagett Enterprises is a full-service real estate company with almost 30 years of experience in the Frederick and Western Maryland area. For assistance with commercial sales, leasing, management, and development and consulting, contact us online or give us a call at 301-665-6009. To meet our team and see some of our beautiful homes, follow us on Facebook and Linkedin.