Pests

See also: Problems With Your Rental Unit

What Is It?

A brown man with a bun thinking about rats and bugs.Our housing code requires rental housing to be free from insect and rodent infestation.

What It Isn’t

This ordinance does not cover neighborhood rodent (rat) issues. Contact the Seattle-King County Public Health Department if rats are seen outdoors.

Rules to Follow

Our ordinance requires that:

  • Property owners control insects (bed bugs, cockroaches, etc.), rodents, or other pests in rental units
  • Property owners may be required to hire a qualified exterminator to get rid of the pests

Read the Code

Learn more about the Housing and Building Maintenance Code.

Fines

Penalties for violating this ordinance range from $150 to $500 per day. Inspection charges may also apply.

Construction and Inspections

Nathan Torgelson, Director
Address: 700 5th Ave, Suite 2000, Seattle, WA, 98104
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 34019, Seattle, WA, 98124-4019
Phone: (206) 684-8600
Phone Alt: Violation Complaint Line: (206) 615-0808
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SDCI issues land use, construction, and trade permits, conducts construction and housing-related inspections, ensures compliance with our codes, and regulates rental rules. SDCI is committed to an antiracist workplace and to addressing racism through our work in the community.