Question 1

Can my landlord charge me for flea treatment?

Accepted Answer

Your landlord can charge for flea treatment if: (1) you had pets that caused the infestation, (2) your lease required flea treatment at move-out and you didn't do it, or (3) you left an active infestation that required professional extermination. However, if you didn't have pets, the lease didn't require it, or you can show the infestation pre-existed your tenancy, the charge may be invalid.

Question 2

Does my landlord have to prove the fleas came from my pet?

Accepted Answer

In a dispute, the landlord should ideally show evidence that the infestation was caused by your pets. If you didn't have pets, or if you can demonstrate the building already had a flea issue (from neighboring units, wildlife, or the previous tenant), you have grounds to dispute the charge. Flea infestations can come from many sources — they aren't automatically the current tenant's fault.

Question 3

Can a landlord charge for flea treatment if I had an ESA?

Accepted Answer

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are not subject to pet fees or pet deposits under the Fair Housing Act. However, landlords can charge for actual documented damage caused by an ESA, including flea treatment if the ESA caused a verified infestation. This is a nuanced area — the landlord must prove the infestation was caused by the ESA and that it constitutes actual damage rather than normal wear.

Question 4

How much should flea treatment cost?

Accepted Answer

Professional flea treatment for a standard apartment typically costs $75-200 for a single treatment, or $150-400 for a multi-treatment program. If your landlord is charging more than this for a normal-sized unit, question the invoice. Request receipts showing the actual extermination cost. Charges should reflect actual cost, not inflated estimates.

Can a Landlord Charge for Flea Treatment?