Pest Control Policy

Purpose:
This policy outlines the responsibilities of both the tenant (Lessee) and the landlord (Lessor) regarding pest control in residential apartment rentals, in compliance with Massachusetts state law, including the State Sanitary Code.

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1. Notification of Infestation

• The Lessee shall notify the Lessor immediately upon the discovery or suspicion of any insect infestation in the premises.
• “Infestation” includes but is not limited to:
  • Ants on countertops.
  • One or more mice
  • Bees and hornets inside the apartment or outside and visible from windows.
  • One or more cockroaches.
  • One or more bedbugs.
  • Black stains on bedding, walls, or furniture.
  • Recurring unexplained nighttime bites without another explanation.

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2. Tenant Cooperation

The Lessee agrees to cooperate fully with the Lessor and any exterminators hired by the Lessor to address infestations. Cooperation may include but is not limited to:

• Taking apart any and all beds.
• Sealing mattresses in plastic covers.
• Emptying all drawers and closets.
• Dry cleaning all fabric and upholstered possessions, including couch pillows and cushions.
• Moving furniture.
• Substantially rearranging apartment contents.
• Vacating the premises for an extended period during or after treatment.
• Discarding infested items as directed by the exterminator or Lessor.

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3. Tenant Responsibilities

• As required by the Massachusetts State Sanitary Code, the Lessee will not permit food to be left outside of sealed containers. Proper food storage helps prevent and mitigate infestations.
• The Lessee agrees to bear the cost of all laundering, dry cleaning, or other necessary compliance steps required as part of extermination efforts.

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4. Landlord Responsibilities

• The Lessor will cover the cost of professional extermination services, including any follow-up treatments necessary to address the infestation fully.
• The Lessor will ensure that extermination efforts comply with state regulations and industry best practices to minimize disruption and risk to tenants.

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5. Default of Lease

• Failure by the Lessee to comply with this policy, including delaying or refusing cooperation with pest control efforts, will be considered a default under the lease agreement.
• Such violations may result in penalties up to and including termination of the lease.

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6. Compliance with State Law

This policy is designed to comply with all applicable Massachusetts state laws, including the State Sanitary Code, to maintain safe, habitable living conditions for all tenants.

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7. Contact Information

For questions or to report an infestation, tenants may contact the property management office:

• Phone:      617-777-2505
• Email:      Support@TheLucasOrganization.com

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8. Policy Updates
This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to remain in compliance with state and federal laws.

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Effective Date: 23rd day of October 2023