Can I get in trouble if I don't let the bed bug exterminator in?

Question

I received a notice from my cities health department stating that I MUST participate or Else in eliminating the bed bugs in the building by letting the fumigator in my apartment. The thing is I don't have bed bugs and this is going to be the third time they are going to fumigate on such a short notice. Its always a problem because I have to get all my clothes into garbage bags and lift my mattress from the bed frame. Do they have the right to fumigate my apartment? And what are the consequences for not letting them fumigate? they make it sound like I can go to jail if I don't let them fumigate.

Answer 1

That sounds rather odd...  where do you live that they can just bust in and do that?

Answer 2

Yes! If you don't let them in you are in violation of Health and Safety laws. You can let them do their job, or go have a nice conversation with a judge, and try to explain why YOU are more important than the health of everyone else in the building.

Answer 3

Uh, if the city health department has an order indicating you have to comply, then yes you have to comply.  BTW bedbugs are extremely small and difficult to see with the naked eye.  They also don't leave any marks when they bite.  I would let the guy in.  What are you hiding that makes you not want the exterminator in.  I am certain it goes beyond mere inconvenience of putting your clothes into bags.

Answer 4

You should call your city's Health Department and ask them what the consequences are for not letting them fumigate.

Their number should be on the form left on your door, or look in the government pages of your phone book.

They should be able to explain why so many fumigations are necessary. If you have other concerns you could ask them also.

Also, from my understanding, bed bugs are extremely hard to get rid of. You probably don't want them infesting your bed or furniture, because if that happens you pretty much have to throw them out. Unless you are using professional grade products, your own fumigation is most likely not going to work.

Answer 5

they could probably kick you out!!

that must be a hassel having to do all of that!!!

tell them to give you more notice and that they are being g*y!!!

Answer 6

you cant go to jail UNLESS is says that on the notice but i think more realistically, the will just come in and thats that