Durham, NC Building Safety: Pest Control (2026)

Durham enforces pest control requirements through the Housing Code in Durham Code Chapter 10, Article VI, which establishes minimum standards for dwelling units. All habitable rooms must be free of rodents, insects, and other pests. Property owners and landlords are responsible for maintaining structures to prevent pest entry, including sealing cracks, maintaining screens on windows and doors, and addressing moisture conditions that attract pests. The Durham Housing Authority Housing Quality Standards checklist specifically includes pest control as a component of housing inspections. For rental housing, landlords bear primary responsibility for pest remediation unless the lease assigns specific maintenance duties to tenants. North Carolina landlord-tenant law (N.C.G.S. Chapter 42) requires landlords to maintain rental premises in a fit and habitable condition, which courts have interpreted to include freedom from significant pest infestations. Durham Code Enforcement investigates complaints about unsanitary conditions and pest infestations in residential properties. The Durham County Department of Public Health provides guidance on pest prevention and can assist with vector control for public health threats. Contact Durham One Call at (919) 560-1200 to report housing code violations including pest infestations.