Bed bugs are a scourge when it comes to owners and operators in the hotel business. These tiny bloodsucking pests are well-heeled travelers hitching rides on many types of transportation, including a guest’s luggage, totes, and backpacks.

One of the worse scenarios facing a hotelier is having guests discover bed bugs in their room and filing a complaint. While a well-run hotel should have a “bed bug check list” in place for its housekeeping staff, there’s always a possibility of the pests getting a foot in the door, unseen.

Tips for Dealing with Guest Complaints

Should a guest discover bed bugs in their room and file a complaint, there are several tips you’ll want to have in place to prevent the situation from getting out of control. It could impact your business in a negative way, such as a report on the nightly news and on websites providing reviews of hotels.

• Have a clear plan of action for employees

• Apologize for the inconvenience and assure the guest you’re taking immediate action

• Offer an alternate room at no charge for the length of their stay

• Place the room “out of service”

• Contact a NYC bed bug specialist for an inspection, advice, and treatment

For long-term precautions against potential infestations, speak to the NYC bed bug specialists at Stern Environmental about future treatments and available preventive measures to remain bed bug free.