questions & answers

Question: I have an ongoing problem in my duplex with a black widow infestation. when we first moved in we had to kill many black widows that were in the backyard with a hammer. The next summer they returned, this time also in the garage and a bedroom closet. I notified the landlord and she provided us with store-bought insect spray for us to use ourselves. I used the spray and a few months later they have returned again. I am very concerned about being bit as well as the safety of my dogs. Since the store-bought spray didn't work doesn't it fall to the landlord to provide pest control? Esp. Safety wise

Answer: Unless the infestation was caused by your actions the landlord would usually be responsible for 'pest control'. You can write a letter to the landlord telling them about the problem and providing 10 days to fix it. If they don't do so you can have a "licensed contractor" do the work and you deduct up to $300 or 1/2 of the monthly rental amount from your rent. ARS 33-1363 A