After finding bedbugs, many landlords and property managers want to keep the situation hush-hush. In the long run, it may actually be better to tell tenants about the situation so you can exterminate the bedbug infestation completely and educate tenants about prevention.

Bedbugs spread quickly between units. After pest control for one apartment, you may wind up with reports of bed bugs weeks later in another unit. Often the easiest, least expensive option is to have the entire building inspected and treated as necessary.

Here’s what property managers need to tell tenants about bedbugs:

• Acknowledge confirmed reports so tenants do not speculate about the problem being worse than it is.

• Ask tenants to report signs of bedbugs. Some people keep quiet because they don’t want to be held responsible for bedbug extermination. That can leave you with hidden bed bugs that keep spreading around the building. Better to welcome the reports.

• Ask tenants to sign up for bed bug extermination so you can arrange for professional pest control to treat all affected units.

• Provide tips and information about how bed bugs spread, how they can clean clothing and other items, and how to spot the signs of a bedbug infestation.

Bedbugs cause stress and anxiety for tenants and landlords alike. Stay on top of the situation and control the message! Let your tenants know that you are bringing in bedbug exterminators to clear the property.