Florida law treats bed bug infestations as a habitability issue under FL §83.51 (Landlord-Tenant Act). Tampa landlords must extermineate in multi-unit properties. Tampa has no separate bed bug ordinance.
Under Florida Statute §83.51, landlords of dwellings other than single-family or duplex units must exterminate rats, mice, ants, wood-destroying organisms, and bed bugs unless the lease shifts that duty by written agreement. For single-family and duplex rentals, the landlord must comply with applicable building, housing, and health codes. Tampa Code Enforcement can inspect rental units that fail to meet habitability and refer cases to the Florida Department of Health when public health is implicated. Tenants must give written notice and a 7-day cure period before withholding rent or terminating the lease. Tampa has no city-specific bed bug ordinance.
Tenants may withhold rent or terminate the lease after 7-day written notice if landlords fail to treat. Code Enforcement can cite landlords who ignore habitability complaints.
Tampa, FL
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