Ability of FDACS to Enforce Bed Bug Treatments Philip G. Koehler, PhD Florida Pest Management Association’s Endowed Professor of Urban Entomology Entomology & Nematology Department University of Florida

Why are bedbugs a problem now (again)? 1. Greater human (therefore bed bug) mobility 2. Less use of residuals insecticides –Baits used for cockroaches & ants 3. Inadequate experience in pest management industry 4. Most products don’t work (Pyrethroids) –Resistance = 300,000x more chemical needed –Repellency = stay away from treated surfaces

Areas with High Bed Bug Infestations

Top 15 Bed Bug Cities

The landlord’s obligations under this subsection may be altered or modified in writing with respect to a single-family home or duplex. (2)(a) Unless otherwise agreed in writing, in addition to the requirements of subsection (1), the landlord of a dwelling unit other than a single-family home or duplex shall, at all times during the tenancy, make reasonable provisions for: 1. The extermination of rats, mice, roaches, ants, wood- destroying organisms, and bedbugs. When vacation of the premises is required for such extermination, the landlord shall not be liable for damages but shall abate the rent. The tenant shall be required to temporarily vacate the premises for a period of time not to exceed 4 days, on 7 days’ written notice, if necessary, for extermination pursuant to this subparagraph.

Bed Bugs are an Epidemic

Bed Bug Pest of Significant Public Health Importance !

Bed Bugs & MRSA

NPMA Best Management Practices

Economics of Bed Bugs $800,000 per year in bed bug work for one company in Florida $500 to $3,000 per bed bug job Jax housing authority has 9,000 apartments –If 10% infestation rate, then 900 infested units –If $2,000 per apartment, then $1.8 million in potential work How about Section 8 Housing and Property Management companies?

Bed Bugs & Fraud Many EPA 25b (exempt from registration) products do not kill bed bugs “Do it yourself” pest control stores sell products to consumers who don’t know how to use them Canine bed bug detection is not regulated Pest management firms may charge $20 to $200 for treatment but not control bed bugs –No contract is required Routine service for ants and cockroaches will not control bed bugs

Bed Bug Treatments Apartment management contract for bed bug treatment of an apartment Apartment resident may get a separate treatment No requirement to notify resident of duplicate treatment –Over-treatment with insecticide is possible –Hazards to residents?