Just moved in and found a dead German cockroach. What should I do?

Tenant Raised Issues
1

Hey everyone, I just moved into a new place and found a dead German cockroach on the 2nd floor. I’m freaking out a bit. What actions do I need to take? Should I get cockroach traps? How long does the LL have to get someone in to deal with this? I don’t fully move in for another 2 weeks. Also, the LL tried to say it’s my responsibility, but I’m pretty sure that’s not right. Any advice?

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2

As a LL myself, I can tell you it’s definitely the landlord’s responsibility to deal with pest issues, especially if you just moved in. Don’t let them push this onto you. Contact them immediately and insist they hire a professional exterminator.

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3

The previous responses are correct. Here’s what you should do:

  1. Document everything. Take pictures of the cockroach and any others you find.
  2. Send a written notice to your LL (email is fine) about the issue. Keep all correspondence.
  3. If the LL doesn’t respond or refuses to act, you can file a T2 application with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).
  4. In the meantime, you can take some preventive measures like sealing food in airtight containers and keeping the place clean.
  5. Don’t sign anything the LL gives you regarding this issue without understanding it fully.

Remember, the LL is responsible for providing a pest-free living environment, especially at the start of a tenancy.

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4

Thanks for the advice! I’ve emailed the LL with pictures. They’re now saying they’ll ‘look into it’ but haven’t given me a timeline. How long should I wait before filing with the LTB?

5

Give them about a week to respond with a concrete plan. If they don’t, or if their plan isn’t satisfactory, then you should consider filing with the LTB. In the meantime, keep documenting everything and avoid bringing in more of your stuff if possible.

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