If you were exposed to a bed bug infestation in Missouri, you may have grounds to file a compensation claim against the negligent property or business owner.
Bed bugs cause significant damage, including bodily harm, emotional trauma, and loss of property. As a result, you may have financial burdens that you should not have to deal with, along with serious health complications. This is where a Missouri bed bug lawyer can help, which you will find here at Normandie Law Firm. Just contact us at your earliest convenience to receive a free consultation with one of our legal experts.
Missouri’s Bed Bug Laws
Each state has its own set of laws pertaining to bed bugs and what property owners must do in the event there is an infestation that causes harm to others. In Missouri, there are various statutes that govern the liability of landlords and owners of hotels and similar lodgings when someone on their property is injured by bed bugs. For example, landlords are required by law to arrange for extermination services if a tenant complains about bed bugs.
As the tenant, you must notify your landlord in writing of the infestation and give them an opportunity to arrange for an inspection of your apartment, house, etc. Please note that the law requires such an inspection to take place within 7 days of the tenant’s complaint. If there are clear signs of an infestation, the landlord has 14 days from the date of tenant notification to arrange for an exterminator. In addition, they must notify the tenant of the visit at least 24 hours ahead of time.
Please make sure to allow access into your apartment on the day of the visit. If you fail to cooperate with your landlord, you will lose the right to hold them liable for your monetary losses. Another important rule is that tenants must notify landlords of a bed bug infestation within 7 days of moving into a property.
These are just some of the regulations that may apply to your situation if you were bitten by bed bugs in a rental unit. For more information on your rights under Missouri’s bed bug laws, contact our law firm today.
Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation
Bed bugs are small insects that come in a variety of colors, though they are usually brown or reddish-brown. Unlike most other household pests, bed bugs are normally found in people’s clothing, furniture, mattresses, and luggage. Generally, they like to hide in small and dark crevices, and come out at night to feed on people’s blood, similar to mosquitoes.
You may notice the signs of bed bugs immediately, but if you are moving into a new apartment or staying at a hotel, make sure to keep an eye out for the following indication of a bed bug infestation:
- Tiny spots of blood on sheets and pillowcases
- Dark spots or smears on clothes, bedding, and upholstery, which may be feces from bed bugs
- A sweet, musty smell similar to raspberries on your sheets and other bedding
- Tiny, cream-colored eggs and exoskeleton that’s been shed by bed bugs
Suing for a Bed Bug Infestation
Landlords and owners of rented lodgings have a duty to provide guests with a safe environment, and there is universal consensus over the fact that bed bugs are a public health hazard. So, if you were exposed to bed bug bites and property damage, the laws of premises liability may allow you to sue the responsible party for monetary compensation. To show that the landlord is legally liable for what you endured, here are the elements that must be established:
- There was a condition on the premises that a reasonable person would deem as hazardous, like an untreated infestation of bed bugs.
- The owner of the property was aware of or should have been aware of the hazard.
- The property owner failed to get rid of the bed bugs or failed to warn guests of the situation and provide reasonable remedies to the situation.
- Because of the hazardous condition, you suffered bodily harm.
How to Succeed in Bed Bug Injury Claim
If you are a victim of negligence, it’s essential that you collect as much evidence as possible and ensure that you have a strong foundation for a legal case. Examples of evidence that can help you succeed in a bed bug lawsuit include:
- Pictures of the injuries caused by bed bugs
- Medical records that document the treatment you received
- Pictures of personal possessions that you were forced to get rid of
- Photos or video footage of eggs, shed skeletons, blood stains and other signs that bed bugs are present
- Written request to your landlord to inform them of the infestation
- Cost of new bedding, clothing, and other items that were destroyed by bed bugs
Even with strong evidence, it can be very challenge to compile this information, prepare the paperwork for a compensation claim, and many other tasks associated with the legal system. It’s in your best interest to work with a Missouri bed bug attorney right from the start, who can help you settle your case in the most expedient manner.
Zero Fee Guarantee
We are all too aware of the worries people have when it comes to hiring an attorney. Primarily, they are concerned about the costs that are involved when they are already facing significant financial issues after a bed bug infestation. That’s why our law firm is proud to offer the Zero Fee Guarantee, starting from the very first consultation.
If you choose to have us represent you for a bed bug injury claim in Missouri, you will pay $0 out of pocket. Our expenses will be paid by the negligent property owner, and only if we are successful in recovering your damages. Otherwise, you pay us $0, and we eat the costs that are associated with your case.
To learn more about the Zero Fee Guarantee, along with an explanation of your rights and legal options, contact Normandie Law Firm as soon as possible.
