Frequently Asked Questions

Is this course required for California renters?

No, this course was designed to complement the bed bug notification that landlords are required to provide renters per California Assembly Bill 551 (AB 551).

What will I learn by taking this course?

You will learn your bed bug rights as a tenant, basic bed bug biology and behavior, and what you should do if you think you have bed bugs.

How long does it take to go through the course?

We know you’re probably short on time. That’s why we made two versions of the course. The limited version will take you less than 5 minutes to complete. The Extended Version will take you about 5 to 10 minutes.

Can I use my phone to complete the course?

Yes. This course was formatted specifically for mobile phone users, but you can also use a computer.

Is the course available in any language other than English?

Yes. The course is provided in both English and Spanish.

Are landlords required to treat my unit once I report bed bugs to them?

The landlord must notify a tenant in writing of the results of any bed bug inspection in their unit. If bed bugs are found in common areas, all tenants must be notified. Notification in either case must be done within 2 business days of the landlord’s receipt of the results.


Generally, it is the landlord’s responsibility to pay for the cost of controlling bed bugs and other pests, but, in some cases, the tenant might have to pay. (Contra Costa County Bed Bug Task Force)

What if I can’t get in contact with my landlord to report bed bugs?

If you can’t get in contact with your landlord to report bed bugs you can reach out to your local public health department for assistance.

Where can I find more information about bed bugs?

You can find more information about bed bugs on the Resources page.

Is there any bed bug training available for landlords?

Yes! Our team of pest management experts has created free bed bug training sessions for landlords.

What if I have more questions about bed bugs that weren’t answered on this site or in the course?

If you have more questions about bed bugs please feel free to reach out to any of the four project partners and we will get back to you as soon as we can. Our contact information can be found here.