Hi all, I just moved into a new apartment. At the lease signing, the landlord (as required by law) disclosed that the previous tenant had a bed bug infestation, but that it was successfully treated. Yes, I should've run out of the office screaming, but for a variety of reasons (not important now), I ended up signing and here I am.
Here are the facts (according to the landlord):
-the apartment was sprayed three times by a PCO, twice when the previous tenants were here and once after they left. I don't know the date of the first spray, but the second was in September (right as the previous tenants were leaving), and the third in late November after the apartment was vacant for about six weeks and going through renovations.
-the apartment was (partially) recaulked (there are still a lot of areas with craps, cracks, small holes).
-According the landlord, no apartments in the building are getting actively treated.
-the apartment was inspected by the PCO after the third treatment, and the landlord received a 'bed bug free' certificate (a copy of which he gave to me). This was in December.
-I just moved in (late Jan) and the apartment has been vacant five months, with many renovations (mostly kitchen and bathroom).
Since I've spent the last month since signing the lease pouring over these forums and getting in a increased state of panic, I did take precautions before moving in. I got encasements for my mattress and box spring, and most of my clothing was brought in in large ziplocs (except for some daily clothing like pajamas, bedding, and towels).
However, day two and my nerves are fried. Can anyone weight in on the likelihood that there still might be an infestation, given the facts? I'm thinking I will at least keep my clothing bagged for the suggested 60 day period, although it's quite disappointing to be unable to unpack in my new place. I haven't really seen anyone post with a situation like this, so figured I'd add a post.
Also, very random question but, how to people treat clothing that can't be washed and dried on hot? I'd say a good 2/3 of my wardrobe would be ruined (delicate fabrics, etc.) with a hot wash and dry. Just curious what people do!