DURHAM REGION BED BUG ACTION PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS1. Executive Summary 2. Introduction/Overview 2.1 Biology
3. Durham Region Action Plan 3.1 Aim & Objectives
3.2 Stakeholder Roles & Responsibilities
3.2.1 Public Health
3.2.2 Social Services – Income Support 3.2.3 Long -Term Care (LTC) Facilities 3.2.4 Multi-Unit Housing 3.2.5 Non-Profit Housing 3.2.6 Temporary Housing
3.2.7 Property Managers / Landlords 3.2.8 Residents / Tenants
3.2.9 Pest Control Operators
3.2.10 Community Care – Mental Health 3.2.11 Child Welfare
3.2.12 Health Care Facilities – Acute Care 3.2.13 Health Care Facilities – Mental Health 3.2.14 Hospitality Industry
3.2.15 Boards of Education
3.2.16 Child Care
3.2.17 First Responders 3.2.18 Municipal Community Facilities 3.3 Legislation, Regulation and Enforcement 4. Integrated Pest Management
5. Surveillance and Evaluation
6. Conclusions and Recommendations 7. References
8. Appendix A Durham Region Bed Bug Working Group Members
10. Appendix C Durham Region Client Referral List 11. Appendix D Bed Bug Response Flowchart
12. Appendix E Pre-Treatment Preparation Checklist
13. Appendix F Bed Bugs and Occupational Health for Service Providers
14. Appendix G Site-Specific Guidelines for Prevention and Management of Bed Bug Infestations
14.1 Multi-unit Housing 14.2 Shelters and Transitional Living
14.3 Long-term Care Facilities and Retirement Homes 14.4 Schools and Day Care Centres
14.5 Hospitality Industry 15. Appendix H Bedbugsinfo.ca Resources
Everything You Wanted to Know About Bed Bugs Pamphlet Bed Bug Inspection Tool Kit (IPM Guide)
Fact Sheets
General Information Bed Bug Myths
Bed Bug Bites
Tenant Rights Regarding Bed Bugs Bed Bug Travel Tips
Pest Control Information
16. Appendix I Education and Community Awareness Resources 17. Appendix J Don’t Let the Bed Bugs Bite (DCAS)
1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Durham Region Health Department (DRHD) led the development of the Durham Region Bed Bug Action Plan (BBAP) in collaboration with several stakeholders to respond to local challenges with respect to bed bugs in Durham Region.
The participation of key stakeholders was invaluable to grasp an understanding of the bed bug issues and challenges and understand the roles of each agency and sector. It was also an opportunity for stakeholders to share their experience, programs and strategies for success.
Section 3.3 of the BBAP provides a summary of the roles and responsibilities of these agencies and sectors. The appendices of the BBAP also have several useful resources and templates to assist agencies, associations and the public and provide guidance and information on the identification, prevention and control of bed bugs in the community. The plan also contains four key recommendations; continued collaboration and
consultation through scheduled meetings of the Bed Bug Working Group; ongoing surveillance and evaluation; common language in local municipal by-laws aimed at providing a consistent level of service throughout Durham region; and the DRHD will continue to provide information sessions for the community, train-the-trainer sessions for key stakeholders and a comprehensive community awareness program.
2.0 INTRODUCTION/OVERVIEW
Over the past few years there has been a resurgence of bed bugs across Canada and other countries. In Durham Region calls to the Durham Region Health Department (DRHD) have increased dramatically since 2006 from a low of 27 in 2007 to a high of 228 in 2011. The number of calls year-to-date indicates that this trend continues to increase.
While bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases to humans, they can cause significant negative effects on quality of life. According to several reports, the impacts of bed bugs include sleep disturbances, anxiety, stress, depression, allergic reactions and psychological trauma. Individuals who lack financial resources and/or those with physical or mental health challenges are often most impacted by bed bugs as their ability to address bed bug infestations or prevent recurrence is compromised.
During the latter part of 2010 and beyond, it became evident that there is a need for a coordinated approach in Durham Region to provide guidance, assistance and support to the community in relation to bed bugs and that Durham Region residents would benefit from the implementation of programs and consistent approaches to addressing bed bug infestations and complaints.
In response to local challenges with bed bug infestations, the DRHD organized a Bed Bug Stakeholder Meeting on January 19, 2011. This meeting was attended by approximately 70 attendees representing various agencies and sectors across the Region. This session resulted in the formation of a Durham Region Bed Bug Working Group (BBWG), with the objective of developing a Draft Durham Region Bed Bug Action Plan.
Just prior to the DRHD Bed Bug Stakeholder Meeting, the government announced $5 million in funding to support public health units in addressing bed bugs in their communities. The province’s 36 boards of health were able to apply for one-time 100% provincial funding to support bed bug-related programs that emphasize coordination with other local services, education and awareness and/or provide supports to vulnerable populations. On January 27, 2011, the MOHLTC sent public health units a funding application form that was to be completed and submitted to the MOHLTC by February 10, 2011. DRHD submitted an application for funding and received $223,458 which provided for the temporary hiring of a Senior Public Health Inspector and a part-time Public Heath Inspector to work on the Bed Bug project.
Funding was also used to undertake a public awareness campaign and educational activities.
The Bed Bug Working Group (BBWG) is comprised of members from Social Services (Housing and Income Support), long-term and health care facilities, first responders,
shelters, the local chapter of the mental health association, landlord and tenant groups and the hospitality industry. The BBWG met in July 2011 to develop terms of reference, review group membership and to define deliverables of the DRHD and BBWG under the areas of education and outreach supports for priority populations and surveillance and evaluation. Stakeholders discussed the issues and challenges experienced in their sector in relation to bed bugs and defined the major components that our local Bed Bug Action Plan should contain. At the September meeting the Bed Bug Action Plan components were prioritized under the following three themes: Education and Outreach, Supports to Priority Populations and Surveillance and Evaluation. Stakeholders were divided into two groups and provided input as to their needs under the relevant action plan components.
During the October meeting, BBWG members were requested to provide any relevant statistics pertaining to bed bug calls, infestations and pest control treatments. Participants at the meeting were divided into two groups and provided feedback and input regarding the existing and potential future initiatives for the two main components of the plan; the bed bug awareness campaign and supports to priority populations. In addition, BBWG members provided input as to the needs of their staff and clients throughout the development of the draft action plan via less formal methods of communication.
The following Draft Durham Region Bed Bug Action Plan is the culmination of the efforts of the Bed Bug Working Group and provides guidance and information on the identification, prevention and control of bed bugs along with site specific guidelines for housing and facilities in an effort to provide a consistent, coordinated approach to bed bugs within Durham Region. This document is intended to be made available to stakeholders and the public via the Durham Region website.
2.1 BIOLOGY
What are Bed bugs?
Bed bugs are small wingless biting insects with oval shaped bodies. Adult bed bugs are a reddish brown, 5 to 6 millimeters when unfed to almost 10mm when fully blood engorged. An unfed adult is similar in size and shape to that of an apple seed. The size of the juveniles varies between 1 to 4mm depending on growth stage.
Their life-cycle, from egg to egg, may take four to five weeks under good conditions. They have five nymphal developmental stages (instars), each needing at least one blood-meal to develop to the next instars. Bed bugs are nocturnal, but they will feed in full daylight when hungry. Each female may lay 200 to 500 eggs in her lifetime. Both male and female bed bugs feed on blood. In the absence of humans they feed on mice, rats, birds and other animals including pet dogs and cats. Feeding takes about 10 to15 minutes for adults, less for nymphs, and is repeated about every three days throughout their estimated typical 6 to12 month lifespan. Adult bed bugs can survive for over a year without
feeding. By day they hide in dark, dry places in beds, mattresses, cracks in walls, floors, and furniture; they are also found behind pictures and wallpaper; hiding places are also used for breeding. They sense and seek warm-blooded hosts mainly through the perception of body temperature and by detection of carbon dioxide (Ter Poorten and Prose 2005). Following emergence from their hiding places, bed bugs can migrate up to 20 feet to reach a victim (Kolb et al. 2009).
Public Health Significance
According to the World Health Organization, bed bugs can carry 28 human pathogens; however they are not known to transmit them when they take a blood meal from a human. They are mainly important as a biting nuisance and are not considered a health hazard. Some people, especially those exposed for a long time, show little or no reaction to the bites, which appear as small red spots that may not even itch. People never bitten before may suffer from local inflammation, intense itching and sleepless nights. The bite produces a hard whitish swelling that
reaction to a bed bug bite, even in the order of 9 to 14 days, and this can cause confusion as to the origin of the bites. Scratching may cause secondary infections.
Social Impacts
Although good evidence is lacking, it is possible that economically-disadvantaged individuals may disproportionately share a larger burden of adverse impacts of bed bug infestations. The social stigma associated with bed bug infestations and potential costs of eliminating an infestation may increase the levels of psychosocial stress. This may also reduce their ability to access resources that can provide assistance to improve their overall health and well being.
People who have experienced a bed bug infestation talk of feeling ashamed, fearful, overwhelmed, and frequently describe extreme levels of isolation. Research into the impact of bed bug infestations shows debilitating impacts, including very high levels of anxiety, stress, depression, sleep deprivation, and intense preoccupation verging on delusional states. Sufferers have reported taking medication to cope with the experience and some have reported ongoing mental health issues.
3.1 AIM & OBJECTIVES
Aim:
The aim of the Durham Region Bed Bug Action Plan is to provide a coordinated approach, effective response and useful resources to community partners, priority populations and the general public regarding bed bugs in Durham Region.
Objectives:
To define roles and responsibilities of agencies related to bed bugs,
To minimize the impact of bed bugs on local priority populations through building community capacity,
To increase awareness of the general public and priority populations regarding bed bug identification, prevention and control,
To identify sources of credible information regarding bed bugs to the public, priority populations, agencies and the media,
To promote and provide information on Integrated Pest Management methods and best practices related to the prevention and control of bed bugs, and
To develop and implement a surveillance system to determine the magnitude of the issue and to evaluate awareness and control efforts.
3.2.1
PUBLIC HEALTH
The role of the Durham Region Health Department is to provide the public with information on bed bug identification, prevention and control. Public health inspectors in the Environmental Health Division also make referrals to agencies that may offer assistance to individuals impacted by bed bugs.
Ongoing Environmental Helpline response, provided by public health inspectors, ensures that members of the community receive reliable information, educational resources, guidance and referrals to agencies that provide assistance in addressing bed bug infestations.
S
TAKEHOLDERA
GENCY:
Durham Region Health Department
One of the primary roles of the Durham Region Health Department (DRHD) is to increase public awareness regarding bed bugs. To this end, the DRHD developed a bed bug community awareness campaign aimed at both the general community and priority populations. A key component of the public awareness initiative is to provide local priority populations with the information and supports needed to minimize the impact of bed bugs. Priority populations are those who may be at risk to increased impacts from bed bug infestations as their ability to address them may be compromised by factors such as physical, mental health and addictionchallenges.
Through partnership and collaboration with community stakeholders, the DRHD has strived to address challenges faced by stakeholders and their clients and streamline access to supports and services in our community related to bed bugs.
3
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIES3.2 STAKEHOLDER ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Awareness & Education Strategies
To increase awareness amongst key stakeholders and priority populations; and prevent the spread of bed bugs in the community; the following strategies have been implemented:
Health promotion and community awareness activities include the following:
o Promote www.bedbugsinfo.ca as a reliable source of information,
o Disseminate resources from www.bedbugsinfo.ca (e.g., pamphlets, fact sheets) via stakeholders,
o Provide educational sessions and train-the-trainer workshops to community partners (i.e., social services, first responders and by-law enforcement),
o Maintain up-to-date bed bug information on the Region’s website
www.durham.ca,
o Implement a community-wide bed bug awareness campaign, o Provide bed bug displays at community events and venues, and
o Provide information and referrals to supportive agencies from inquiries received on the DRHD’sEnvironmental Help Line.
Provision of pest specimen identification
o Identify insects at the DRHD Environmental Health Division office.
Provision of a bed bug surveillance program/database and evaluation of the program
o Monitor calls received on the Environmental Help Line related to bed bug inquiries and complaints,
o Track health promotion activities provided by the DRHD (e.g., dissemination of resources, presentations, displays), and
o Conduct surveys to determine the effectiveness of health promotion activities aimed at increasing community and priority population awareness of bed bugs.
3.2.2
SOCIAL SERVICES - INCOME AND EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT
The Social Services Department provides services to more than 25,000 residents of Durham Region each month.
The Income and Employment Support Services Division delivers the Ontario
Works Program which provides financial help and basic health benefits to residents in
need. Their Employment Resource Centre provides a wide range of services to help people find work.
S
TAKEHOLDERA
GENCY:
Durham Region Social Services Department
-Income and Employment Support Services
Income and Employment Support staff interact with clients who visit their offices or call for financial and employment assistance (i.e. applying for social assistance benefits); and therefore respond to bed bug inquiries and concerns from their clients on an ongoing basis.
There are numerous opportunities for them to provide information regarding bed bugs to their clients. Increasing bed bug awareness and dispelling misinformation associated with bed bugs should reduce the social stigma associated with bed bugs and increase the early bed bug identification and eradication.
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIESIn order to increase bed bug awareness amongst staff and clients; and prevent the spread of bed bugs in the community, the following strategies are proposed:
Awareness & Education Strategies
Promote www.bedbugsinfo.ca as a reliable source of information,
Disseminate resources to clients via caseworkers and Employment Counsellors (e.g. pamphlets, fact sheets from www.bedbugsinfo.ca),
Provide education sessions for Social Services staff,
Provide information supporting the benefits of early identification and reporting of bed bug infestations, and
Provide information regarding the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants.Control Strategies
Provide assistance to Ontario Works clients with the eradication of bed bug infestations through access to various types of mandatory or discretionary health related benefits based on eligibility. Assist with cleaning and/or replacement of a client’s personal belongings when the client submits a request for CSUMB (Community Start Up and Maintenance Benefit).
3.2.3
LONG-TERM CARE (LTC) HOMES
A major challenge for LTC homes is the introduction of bed bugs into their homes by new residents who may have a bed bug infestation in their previous home and bring bed bugs with their personal belongings. Visitors may also introduce bed bugs to the facility when they are visiting or bringing personal items for their family member.
There may also be challenges in identifying the presence of an infestation in residents’ rooms and the subsequent follow up and reporting of the infestation.
S
TAKEHOLDERA
GENCY:
Durham Region Social Services Department –
Long-Term Care and Services for Seniors Division
The Regional Municipality of Durham operates four long-term care homes. Their services are geared toward physically frail and/or cognitively impaired adults who require supervision and/or assistance with activities of daily living and personal care in a secure, safe and caring environment. These facilities and homes employ a range of skilled health professionals to meet the multiple complex care needs of the residents.
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIESTo increase awareness amongst staff and residents; and prevent the spread of bed bugs in the community, the following strategies are proposed:
Awareness & Education Strategies
Provide train-the trainer sessions regarding bed bug management for staff, Provide staffed displays and distribute posters throughout long-term care
homes,
Provide bed bug information to staff, residents and visitors regarding identification, prevention, early reporting and control (e.g., pamphlets and fact sheets from www.bedbugsinfo.ca),
Provide Workplace Newsletters with information on bed bugs to staff,
Provide bed bug information to families during family & resident council meetings, and
Promote www.bedbugsinfo.ca as a reliable source of information.
Control Strategies
Establish Best Management Guidelines regarding bed bug prevention and control,
Develop and implement bed bug policies to educate staff, service providers, clients & their families,
Develop and implement policies and procedures regarding bed bug inspections during routine cleaning, and
Develop and implement policies and procedures regarding regular inspection of residents’ rooms, bedding, common areas, wheel chairs and motorized equipment, etc.
3.2.4 MULTI-UNIT
HOUSING
Bed bug infestations can be difficult to control and eliminate, especially in multi-unit dwellings. If not addressed immediately, infestations can easily spread to adjacent units or throughout a building impacting many people and increasing the costs associated with eradication. In order to address a bed bug infestation effectively, it is vital for all parties involved to work together (i.e. property managers/landlords, tenants and pest control operators). Proactive treatment through pre-established treatment plans can effectively eliminate infestations.
S
TAKEHOLDERA
GENCY:
Durham Region Social Services Department -
Housing Services
The Region of Durham, Housing Services Division is part of the Social Services Department. The Region provides funding for operating and rent-geared-to-income
subsidies for approximately 6,800 social housing units operated by non-profit housing agencies across Durham. The Division consists of three teams.
Housing Operations manages the regionally owned portfolio of units occupied by single, family and senior households. This team also works with private landlords that participate in rent supplement programs.
Homelessness Initiatives funds and monitors programs that assist households to obtain housing or to prevent homelessness. This portfolio includes: managing the waiting list for rent-geared-to-income housing, funding and administering the programs for emergency and domiciliary hostels and the Emergency Motel Program. The Housing Outreach Workers and Eviction Prevention programs are also funded through this team. Housing Administration is responsible for setting policy and monitoring legislative compliance of 45 housing providers who operate 6,800 rental units throughout the Region.
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIESHousing Operations personnel directly manage rental units located in 23 sites across Durham. These sites include high rise and low rise buildings, semi detached homes, four-plexes, row houses and town homes. Employees are regularly on site to inspect units, conduct maintenance and repairs, address tenant issues and collect rents. Employees also monitor the repair work undertaken by contractors within these units. They ensure contractors are aware of bed bug issues within specific units and are following appropriate protocols to reduce the spread of bed bugs to other units.
Operations staff also liaises with private landlords that have rent supplement agreements with the Region. Regional staff provides advice and guidance to the landlords and/or rent supplement tenants on how to deal with bed bug issues. The Durham Region Housing Services Division is well placed to support the Region in its efforts to increase public awareness to prevent the spread of bed bugs in the community.
Homelessness Initiatives team members are often required to field calls from applicants, emergency hostel providers, community program staff, and the general public regarding problems with bed bugs. Families experiencing problems with bed bugs are often under stress. Team members provide callers with information about the appropriate management of bed bugs and support tenants in working with their landlords to eradicate the infestation.
Housing Administration supports social housing providers by advising them of their responsibilities to residents under their by-laws, the Residential Tenancies Act and the
Co-operative Corporations Act. Complaints from residents regarding maintenance
housing provider. This team offers housing providers training on a variety of issues, including bed bugs.
To increase awareness amongst staff and residents; and prevent the spread of bed bugs in the community, the following strategies are proposed:
Awareness & Education Strategies
Provide ongoing information and awareness sessions to residents, social housing staff and community workers about bed bug identification, prevention and control,
Disseminate information from www.bedbugsinfo.ca (e.g., pamphlets and fact sheets) to tenants, staff and landlords, and
Promote www.bedbugsinfo.ca as a reliable source of information.
Control Strategies
Establish and implementation of policies that encourage the early detection and prompt reporting of and response to bed bug infestations to landlords,
Establish and implementation of policies that encourage the use of licensed pest control companies,
Provide information to residents and landlords regarding pre-treatment preparation, and how to choose a pest control company (see Appendices E and H), and
Develop processes that encourage cooperation amongst landlords, tenants, shelters, hostels and pest control companies for effective eradication of existing bed bug infestations and prevention of further infestations.
3.2.5 NON-PROFIT
HOUSING
Many non-profit housing facilities are multi-unit dwellings. Residents of non-profit housing buildings may encounter similar challenges in eradicating bed bug infestation as residents in other types of multi-unit dwellings. Residents who may have additional challenges such as disabilities may be more severely impacted. They may require assistance to access the necessary supports to deal with the infestation. In order to successfully eradicate a bed bug infestation, it is essential for residents and landlords to work collectively. Once an infestation has been identified, all parties involved (i.e., resident, landlord and pest control operator) must be proactive and work together in implementing treatment strategies, evaluating their effectiveness and assessing the need for further treatment.
S
TAKEHOLDERA
GENCY:
Durham Non-Profit Housing
Durham Non-Profit Housing is a social housing provider that owns and manages more than 1,100 apartment and townhouse rental units at 18 sites across Durham Region. The mission of the Corporation is to help meet the housing needs of the Region's
diverse population through the provision of a practical, well-maintained and affordable housing portfolio integrated within the community. The Corporation assists with related services to support residents in their housing. Durham Region Non-Profit Housing Corporation was developed as a result of the growing awareness of the need to meet the housing requirements of senior citizens, the physically and mentally challenged, and family households whose shelter needs were not being met by the private sector.
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIESTo increase awareness amongst landlords and residents; and prevent the spread of bed bugs in the community, the following strategies are proposed:
Awareness & Education Strategies
Provide ongoing education and information to residents/staff about bed bug identification, prevention and control through workshops,
Disseminate information using pamphlets, fact sheets, posters and displays, and Promote www.bedbugsinfo.ca as a reliable source of information.
Control Strategies
Promote early detection, prompt reporting and response of bed bug infestations,
Hire licensed pest control companies to address infestations,
Follow proper unit preparation steps to ensure successful treatment and prevention,
Keep accurate records of infestations and treatments conducted, and
Encourage cooperation amongst landlords, tenants and pest control for effective eradication and prevention of further infestations.
Landlords/Property Managers should provide tenants with:
o Information they require to understand behaviour and habits, as well as what actions and control measures are required to deal with the infestation, o Adequate notice of treatment dates and times,
o Instructions for pre-treatment preparation, and
o A checklist to assist tenants with the pre-treatment preparation requirements (see Appendix E).
Tenants/Residents should:
o Report suspected infestations promptly to their landlord,
o Reduce clutter and maintain their unit/home in a manner to reduce conditions that may lead to bed bug infestations,
o Cooperate with the landlord/property manager and the pest control operator in treating an infestation, and
o Follow proper unit preparation steps for inspection and treatment, and take reasonable measures to prevent re-infestation.
3.2.6 TEMPORARY
HOUSING
Bed bugs can present a difficult issue in shelters and transitional housing because of the transient nature of those persons who use this service. In addition, residents who occupy temporary housing may require additional supports regarding bed bug awareness and the benefits of early reporting of bed bug issues.
S
TAKEHOLDERA
GENCY:
Cornerstone Community Association Durham
Inc.
Cornerstone Community Association provides services to individuals who are homeless and require support to remain in the community. Support is provided through facilities such as emergency shelters, transitional housing, and permanent housing. Cornerstone owns and operates a multi-unit apartment building in Oshawa and also accesses apartments committed to their organization in other housing units in the Region.
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIESTo increase awareness amongst staff and tenants; and prevent the spread of bed bugs in the community, the following strategies are proposed:
Awareness & Education Strategies
Provide ongoing education to staff and tenants about bed bug identification, prevention and control, through workshops and other strategies,
Provide tenants with bed bug prevention information during the signing of their lease agreement,
Provide tenants, clients and staff with education and ongoing updates in best practices and new methods for the prevention and control of bed bugs,
Promote www.bedbugsinfo.ca as a reliable source of information, Encourage tenants to report infestations, and
Work with tenants to ensure proper pre-treatment unit preparation is followed.
Control Strategies
Implement a bed bug policy that defines responsibilities of staff, tenants, residents, guests and pest control providers,
Define procedures for infestations and recommendations for staff to prevent and control the transfer of bed bugs between rental units and other facilities, Ensure preventative maintenance, intensive follow-up and facilitation of needed
resources whether from staff, contract or external agencies in special cases, and
Develop and provide the following tools for staff and tenants: o Checklist for prevention and treatment of bed bugs, and o Pre-treatment preparation instructions.
3.2.7 PROPERTY
MANAGERS/LANDLORDS
Landlords, property owners and managers play a key role with regards to controlling bed bugs. Bed bug infestations in multi-unit dwellings can be difficult to eradicate. Responding quickly to infestations may reduce costs and increases the likelihood for a successful outcome.
Landlords are responsible for providing and maintaining a residential complex including the residential units in it. Tenants are responsible for cleanliness of the areas that they occupy and control. Therefore, from a legal perspective, as well as a practical standpoint, it is essential that landlords and tenants work together to eliminate bed bugs.
S
TAKEHOLDERA
GENCY:
Greater Toronto Apartment Association
(GTAA)
The GTAA represents the interests of its members: owners, managers and the professional service providers in the rental housing industry.
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIESTo increase awareness amongst landlords; and prevent the spread of bed bugs in the community the following strategies are proposed:
Awareness & Education Strategies
Provide information sessions to tenants to increase awareness of bed bugs, Provide the resources available on www.bedbugsinfo.ca as well as a
Pre-treatment Preparation Checklist (see Appendix E) to tenants, and Promote www.bedbugsinfo.ca as a reliable source of information.
Control Strategies
Landlords may be required to retain the services of a licensed pest control operator when bed bugs have been identified. To effectively control bed bugs, a landlord’s responsibilities should include the following:
Control the spread of bed bugs through mutual cooperation and open communication with tenants,
Institute an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program, with an emphasis on awareness and prevention,
Consider requesting that new tenants report that they are moving from a bed bug infested premises,
Consider disclosing the presence of bed bugs in a building to prospective tenants,
Encourage tenants or guests to report bed bugs and keep records of bed bug or other pest complaints on site in a log book,
Respond quickly to all complaints,
Refer tenants and guests to the appropriate support agencies (e.g. medical, mental health, financial, social services) for help if necessary (see Appendix C- Client Referral List),
Obtain the services of a licensed pest control company with experience in managing bed bugs using IPM principles. Request tenants to follow instructions from the pest control company,
Provide information on the proper removal of bed bug infested furnishings in order to prevent the spread of bed bugs along hallways and in elevators,
Ensure use of prompt and proper disposal of potentially infested furnishings (see Appendix E), and
Keep accurate records of infestations and treatments conducted.
3.2.8 RESIDENTS/TENANTS
Controlling bed bugs in a residential tenancy requires collaboration from all parties. This includes owners, landlords, property management, tenants and pest control. A tenant’s early identification of a bed bug infestation will lead to a greater chance for a successful eradication of the pest.
S
TAKEHOLDERA
GENCY:
Durham Community Legal Clinic (DCLC)
The DCLC provides referrals, legal information, legal advice, and representation before Courts and Tribunals, Tenant Duty Counsel, community development and law reform. The DCLC offers legal advice to low income residents of Durham Region.
The DCLC periodically hosts information sessions to community agencies. In addition, the DCLC can provide information on legal rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants and general bed bug control information directly to tenants through the following avenues:
Conduct client consultation (i.e. in person or via telephone), Provide non-staffed displays in the office lobby, and
Distribute pamphlets and other resources.
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIESAwareness & Education Strategies
Provide information on bed bug identification, prevention and control to tenants by directing them to www.bedbugsinfo.ca or through local community agencies such as the Durham Community Legal Clinic,
Provide information from the Durham Region Bed Bug Action Plan, (i.e. Client Referral List - Appendix C, Bed Bug Response Flowchart - Appendix D and Pre-Treatment Checklist – Appendix E).
Control Strategies
Encourage cooperation and collaboration between tenants and landlords. Tenants are responsible for cooperating with a landlord’s efforts to control bed bugs. If the pest control operator believes there is a need to also treat neighbouring units, the landlord may have the right to enter to inspect and treat other apartments as well as the affected apartment,
Encourage tenants to properly prepare their unit that is to be treated by the pest control operator. Disseminate information to tenants regarding the necessary precautions when disposing items that may have bed bugs on them (see Appendix E), and
Encourage tenants to:
o Follow all advice and instructions to support the IPM program implemented by the building management even if they personally do not have an
infestation of bed bugs,
o Report bed bugs to the building management immediately,
o Familiarize themselves with signs of bed bugs and frequently check their living space for evidence of an infestation, and
o Discuss with neighbouring tenants the need to support the IPM program in place and cooperate with management.
3.2.9 PEST
CONTROL
OPERATORS
Licensed pest control operators have access to regulated pest control products that the general public does not have access to. These regulated products are necessary where an infestation exists. The pest management company must hold a valid operator license issued by the Ontario Ministry of the Environment (MOE) to run a business that uses pesticides.
Persons applying pesticides that are employed by the pest management company must hold a Structural Exterminator License or be a Technician or Trainee working under the supervision of the Structural Exterminator License holder. The exterminator must carry his or her license, issued by the MOE, or have it available at the extermination site. Pest control companies have an excellent opportunity to incorporate education and training for their clients. This service may include a large information session for a municipal/regional housing provider or in a tenant’s home with the landlord and tenant present.
S
TAKEHOLDERA
GENCY:
Structural Pest Management Association of
The SPMAO is the largest and oldest professional Structural Pest Management Industry Association in Ontario. The SPMAO is a non-profit organization with a Board of Directors comprised of representatives from their members. SPMAO represents over 150 licensed companies that actively protect the health and safety of all Ontarians. SPMAO hosts workshops and training sessions for their members and also provides them with latest policies, standards and best practices. The SPMAO has developed a “Best Practices” document for the treatment of bed bugs in multi-unit buildings.
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIESAwareness & Education Strategies
To assist landlords and tenants in controlling bed bugs, pest control operators should disseminate information such as the following:
Resources from www.bedbugsinfo.ca,
Provide information from the Durham Region Bed Bug Action Plan, (i.e., Client Referral List - Appendix C and Bed Bug Response Flowchart - Appendix D and Pre-Treatment Checklist – Appendix E),
Documents available from their own internally developed resources, and Resources available at www.spmao.ca.
Control Strategies
Licensed pest control companies have the experience, tools (including insecticides) and resources to control bed bug infestations. The services provided to the client to help control bed bugs may include information on:
Prevention, Identification,
Pre-treatment preparation, Control measures,
Mattress encasements, Bed bug monitors,
Climb-up interceptors, and Residual insecticide application.
A licensed pest control operator with experience and training in bed bug control plays a fundamental role in Integrated Pest Management and can provide the greatest success in eliminating a bed bug infestation.
3.2.10
COMMUNITY CARE - MENTAL HEALTH
Mental Health Service Providers are committed to the well being of their staff and clients and aim to eliminate the occurrence and reoccurrence of bed bugs in their housing and
A bed bug policy is necessary to develop and implement practices and/or procedures for staff to:
Reduce the likelihood of staff coming into contact with bed bugs,
Reduce opportunities for the movement/transport of bed bugs from one home to another, and
Assist and support clients and others in the prevention and control of bed bugs.
S
TAKEHOLDERA
GENCY:
Canadian Mental Health Association-Durham
Branch (CMHA)
CMHA Durham is part of a nation-wide charitable organization that promotes the mental health of all and supports the resilience and recovery of people experiencing mental illness. Their Mental Health Centre promotes and enhances the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of our community. They do this through education, collaboration, advocacy, and the provision of a broad range of direct services that meet our community's needs.
CMHA Durham fulfills its mission by:
Providing a range of services and community-based mental health programs, Educating the broader community regarding mental health issues,
Working closely with other related services in the community, and
Responding to the needs of the community by establishing new programs.
Rental housing units are also provided throughout Durham Region and each tenant has a case management worker who visits the tenant and assists them with life skills.
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIESIn order to increase awareness amongst staff and clients and prevent the spread of bed bugs in the community, the following strategies are proposed:
Awareness & Education Strategies
Provide bed bug training sessions for case management workers who visit tenants of CMHA rental housing units,
Facilitate discussions with staff about bed bugs and how to avoid or deal with them,
Post resources such as fact sheets from www.bedbugsinfo.ca at all CMHA-Durham sites,
Provide all clients with a fact sheet at admission, and a checklist as to what they can do to prevent or eliminate the problem,
Provide clients with access to written information about bed bugs, Promote www.bedbugsinfo.ca as a reliable source of information, and
Provide information from the Durham Region Bed Bug Action Plan, (i.e., Client Referral List - Appendix C, Bed Bug Response Flowchart - Appendix D and Pre-Treatment Checklist – Appendix E).
Control Strategies
Train staff and volunteers to recognize signs of bed bugs, reporting methods, and improve knowledge of bed bug policies and/or protocols,
Develop a bed bug protocol outlining safety precautions for staff when meeting with clients (at home or other locations) and other procedures to deal with infestations,
Ensure a copy of the protocol is available at all work sites,
Provide bed bug inspection tool kits at each residential building and other work sites as well as implementing a plan to maintain supplies (see Appendix H),
Encourage clients to report bed bug problems to staff,
Assist in the confirmation and positive identification of suspected bed bugs (e.g., contacting pest control company, DRHD), and
Take preventative measures to reduce opportunities for the transport of bed bugs between clients’ homes and staff.
3.2.11
CHILD WELFARE
S
TAKEHOLDERA
GENCY:
Children’s Aid Society - Durham
Durham Children's Aid Society has been protecting children in the community since 1905. They are responsible for providing child protection services to children under the age of 16 and their families who live in Durham.
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIESThe Children’s Aid Society has agency staff members whose job function is to conduct home visits and deal with clients who come into their office. Volunteer staff members also attend family homes. Staff may therefore come into contact with bed bugs while in a client’s home that is infested or if they are brought into the office. In addition, they also have a clothing depot and store belongings of their crown wards (children in their care who live on their own) on site from time to time.
Staff and volunteers are expected to take certain precautions to minimize personal contact with or transmission of bed bugs.
To increase awareness amongst staff and clients and prevent the spread of bed bugs in the community, the following strategies are proposed:
Awareness & Education Strategies
Provide information and training (e.g., train-the trainer sessions) regarding bed bug prevention and control for staff,
Disseminate information from www.bedbugsinfo.ca (e.g., pamphlets and fact sheets) to agency staff and clients, and
Control Strategies
Provide information and procedures for staff to follow during home visits to reduce the spread of bed bugs (i.e., Safety First Manual and Durham Children’s Aid Society Don’t Let the Bed Bugs Bite Recommendations for Staff pamphlet – Appendix J), and
Ensure staff members take preventative measures to control the exposure of bed bugs between client homes and staff.
3.2.12
HEALTH CARE FACILITIES - ACUTE CARE
Hospitals deliver health care services to the residents of our community; they receive patients (both long term and short term) as well as the patients’ visitors who come into the hospital. It is possible that a patient/and or visitors can bring bed bugs into a hospital with their belongings; although these are typically transient introductions and infestation is unlikely to result. Even though most hospital environments are not conducive to bed bug infestations, it is vital for staff to be trained in bed bug identification, prevention and control as well as recognizing signs of an infestation, should they occur.
S
TAKEHOLDERA
GENCIES:
Lakeridge Health, Markham-Stouffville
Hospital Corporation (Uxbridge Cottage Hospital Site), Rouge
Valley Health System
Together, the Lakeridge Health, Rouge Valley Health System and the Uxbridge Cottage Hospital serve more than 600,000 residents of the Durham Region. On average, the entities five acute-care hospitals, one specialty hospital and various off site locations manage over 715 in-patient beds and deliver care to approximately 1,600 people each day; with over 5,000 staff and physicians along with nearly 1,500 volunteers.
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIESIn order to increase awareness amongst staff and patients; and prevent the spread of bed bugs in the community, the following strategies are proposed:
Awareness & Education Strategies
Provide information and training (e.g. train-the-trainer sessions) to ensure staff are aware of bed bug prevention and control measures,
Implement an awareness program for staff through various communication, tools (e.g. web-based newsletters distributed to staff via email, posters promoting www.bedbugsinfo.ca as well as displays and dissemination of resources during events such as Infection Control Week),
Provide resources to patients and their families regarding bed bugs, and Promote www.bedbugsinfo.ca as a reliable source of information.
Control Strategies:
Develop policies and procedures that contain the following components:
o Guidelines for the management of bed bug sightings and suspected infestations in order to prevent the spread of bed bugs in a hospital environment,
o Guidance on how to identify bed bug signs during routine cleaning and inspection of hospital rooms/common areas, and
o Actions to be taken once a suspected or confirmed bed bug infestation is reported (e.g., contact precautions, use of bed bug monitors and contact pest control company)
3.2.13
HEALTH CARE FACILITIES - MENTAL HEALTH
Mental Health Facilities deliver specialized health care services to patients suffering from mental illness. Bed bugs can be brought into the hospital with patients’ belongings. It is important for mental health facilities to have a bed bug management policy in order to ensure that staff members are properly trained in bed bug identification and control, and to provide workplace guidelines for the management of suspected or confirmed bed bugs in the facility.
S
TAKEHOLDERA
GENCY:
Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health
Sciences
Ontario Shores is a public hospital providing a range of specialized assessment and treatment services to those living with complex and serious mental illness.
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIESIn order to increase awareness amongst staff and patients; and prevent the spread of bed bugs in the community, the following strategies are proposed:
Awareness & Education Strategies
Implement an awareness program that may include train-the trainer sessions, or information sessions for staff regarding bed bug identification, prevention and management,
Provide bed bug awareness information via intranet, and newsletters that go to staff, clients and patients,
Disseminate awareness resources to staff, clients and patients (e.g., bed bug information package including pamphlets, fact sheets from
www.bedbugsinfo.ca - see Appendix H), and
Promote www.bedbugsinfo.ca as a reliable source of information. .
Control Strategies
Develop policies and procedures that contain the following components:
o Staff training regarding signs of bed bugs in clinical areas and on patient’s items (e.g. actual insects, cast skins, or excessive insect bites on a patient),
o Guidelines for the management of bed bug sightings and suspected infestations in order to prevent the spread of bed bugs in a hospital environment,
o Actions to be taken once a suspected or confirmed bed bug infestation is reported (e.g. contact precautions, use of bed bug monitors and contact pest control company)
3.2.14 HOSPITALITY
INDUSTRY
Hotels and motels are at an increased risk for bed bugs due to the transient nature of their occupancy. While bed bug exposures may not be 100% preventable the development of an infestation can be avoided. Education and awareness that is targeted to all levels of staff can reduce the risk of spreading the pest to their guests and throughout the community.
S
TAKEHOLDERA
GENCY: Durham Hotel Association
The Durham Hotel Association serves the region by providing hoteliers and industry members a regular forum at which to meet and discuss industry issues.Their membership includes 13 hotels with a total of 2,016 beds.
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIESAwareness & Education Strategies
Guest services including cleaning and maintenance staff have an excellent opportunity to monitor daily for the signs of bed bugs. Therefore bed bug identification awareness amongst staff is critical to control bed bugs. Hotel owners and managers can utilize several methods to reach out to hotel staff, such as the following:
Increase awareness amongst staff using methods such as pay cheque insertions, staff bulletin boards, staff meetings, etc., and
Disseminate resources and develop procedures for staff to follow to reduce the spread of bed bugs.
Promote www.bedbugsinfo.ca as a reliable source of information.
Control Strategies:
It is recommended that hotels implement an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program in order to respond to bed bugs.
Hoteliers have a responsibility to enact control measures outlined in the IPM program as soon as bed bugs have been identified. This may include the following:
Implement a bed bug monitoring program where applicable,
Remove guest rooms from service until such time as the potential infestation is investigated by a pest control operator, Conduct enhanced inspections of any adjacent rooms to check for signs and/or the presence of bed bugs, and
Seal mattresses and furniture from affected rooms prior to their removal from the room.
3.2.15 SCHOOL
BOARDS
Schools may provide a location for bed bugs to be spread from one person’s belongings to another person’s belongings. Bed bugs can be introduced into schools from homes via bags, backpacks, clothing, books and other items. Although school environments may not be conducive to bed bug infestations, a Bed Bug Response Plan is still important in order to support bed bug prevention and control in the school and to effectively respond to suspected bed bug sightings should a bed bug issue occur. Schools may choose to alert parents/caregivers when bed bugs have been identified and provide bed bug information from www.bedbugsinfo.ca.
S
TAKEHOLDERA
GENCY:
Ontario Association of School Business
Officials (OASBO)
This Ontario Association of School Business Officials (OASBO) is a professional association that develops, shares and promotes leading business practices in education. The OASBO has several standing committees representing various business functions such as Health and Safety.
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIESTo increase awareness amongst staff, students and their families; and prevent the spread of bed bugs in the community, the following strategies are proposed:
Awareness & Education Strategies
Provide information to staff regarding signs of bed bugs in the classroom and on children’s items (e.g., actual insects, cast skins, or excessive insect bites on a child) and actions required should bed bugs be discovered,
Provide bed bug awareness resources (e.g. pamphlets and fact sheets from
www.bedbugsinfo.ca) to students and their families via the school
administrator,
Provide bed bug information via individual school newsletters (coordinated school board committee),
Offer bed bug information sessions for parents/caregivers and students in conjunction with other agencies,
Promote www.bedbugsinfo.ca as a reliable source of information, and
Provide information from the Durham Region Bed Bug Action Plan, (i.e., Client Referral List - Appendix C, Bed Bug Response Flowchart - Appendix D and Pre-Treatment Checklist – Appendix E).
Control Strategies
Develop and implement a Bed Bug Response Plan (currently under development by the Durham District School Board),
Provide resources regarding bed bug prevention and control to parents and students living in an infested home in order to prevent the further spread of bed bugs in the community,
Implement a bed bug monitoring program throughout the school in response to a confirmed case, and
Develop policies and procedures that include components such as; o Reducing clutter and the storage of student and staff personal items,
o Cleaning schedules focusing on lost-and-found areas, upholstered furniture and wall mounted items (e.g. pictures, clocks, bookcases), and
o Regular inspection of the school for signs of bed bugs.
3.2.16 CHILD
CARE
Child care programs provide a location for bed bugs to be spread from one person’s belongings to another. Bed bugs can hitch a ride on backpacks, clothing, books and other items enabling them to travel to and from child care centres.
Although child care centre environments may not be as conducive to infestations as other settings, such as multi-unit buildings, homes and hotels (with the exception of home child care), a bed bug response plan is still important. Protocols need to be established in order to support bed bug prevention and control in the child care settings and to effectively respond to suspected bed bug sightings, or infestations, should a bed bug issue occur. Since bed bugs tend to bite people when they are asleep, a bed bug problem may be more likely to develop in rooms where children nap. Child care centres should alert parents/caregivers when cases of bed bugs have been identified (with their child) and urge vigilance in the home to protect the health and safety of the family and school community.
S
TAKEHOLDERA
GENCY:
Durham Region Children’s Services
The Durham Region Children’s Services Division is the service manager for child care programs and initiatives in Durham Region. This division aims to provide effective and efficient delivery of directly operated services and programs while taking on a leadership role in the development, delivery and maintenance of these high-quality, affordable and
accessible children's services and programs; recognizing both individual needs and the diversity of our communities.
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIESTo increase awareness amongst staff, children and their families; and prevent the spread of bed bugs in the community, the following strategies are proposed:
Awareness & Education Strategies
Provide training to staff regarding signs of bed bugs in the classroom and on children’s items (e.g., actual insects, cast skins, or excessive insect bites on a child) and actions required should bed bugs be discovered,
Provide education and awareness resources (e.g., pamphlets, fact sheets from www.bedbugsinfo.ca) to students and their families via the administrator,
Distribute newsletters containing information on bed bugs, Provide information sessions for parents/caregivers,
Promote www.bedbugsinfo.ca as a reliable source of information, and
Provide information from the Durham Region Bed Bug Action Plan, (i.e., Client Referral List - Appendix C, Bed Bug Response Flowchart - Appendix D and Pre-Treatment Checklist – Appendix E).
Control Strategies
Collaborate with the parents of children living in an infested home to develop strategies for preventing the further spread of bed bugs, and
Develop policies and procedures that include components such as: o Reducing clutter and the storage of children and staff personal items,
o Cleaning schedules focusing on lost-and-found areas, upholstered furniture and wall mounted items (e.g. pictures, clocks, bookcases), and
o Regular inspection of the day care for signs of bed bugs.
3.2.17 FIRST
RESPONDERS
For the purpose of this document, first responders include Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Durham Region Police Services (DRPS), and Municipal Fire Services. First responders provide an important emergency service in our community, and at times are required to enter homes in the event of a crisis as part of a response to emergency calls. As such, opportunities may exist for bed bugs to “hitchhike” onto first responders clothing and equipment. Bed bugs may also be present on the client or their possessions.
S
TAKEHOLDERA
GENCY:
Durham Region
Emergency Medical Services
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIESTo increase awareness amongst first responders and prevent the spread of bed bugs in the community the following strategies are proposed:
Awareness & Education Strategies
Implement an awareness program for all staff through a variety of methods (e.g., train-the-trainer workshops, on-line learning modules, posters),
Promote www.bedbugsinfo.ca as a reliable source of information, and
Provide pamphlets and other resources from www.bedbugsinfo.ca (see Appendix F and H).
Control Strategies
Recognizing an infestation and having polices in place can prevent the spread of bed bugs within the community, first responder workplaces, and the first responder’s home. The following measures will help to reduce the spread of bed bugs within the community.
Provide basic training to all first responders in the identification, prevention and control of bed bugs,
Provide first responders with on-site protocols and procedures for bed bugs to ensure staff members take preventative measures to control the exposure of bed bugs between clients, their homes and staff, and
Develop and implement policies and procedures to address bed bug sightings in either a client’s home, a first responder’s vehicle or workplace.
3.2.18
Municipal Community Facilities
Arenas, recreational centres, senior activity centres and community centres are owned and operated by their municipality respectively while library boards govern municipal libraries. These facilities are available for use by: the general public, their members, and many types of organizations. Each facility will have their own unique challenges for pest control including controlling for bed bugs. While a bed bug infestation is not likely to occur there is an increased risk in a facility such as one with public use lockers where a member of the public may unknowingly bring in a bed bug and leave it behind to “hitchhike” onto the next unsuspecting person. Libraries may also be at an increased risk for bed bugs for the following reasons:
Libraries are often furnished with upholstered furniture which may be difficult to clean and ensure its free of bed bugs, and
Priority populations such as the hard-to-house, may seek daytime shelter during extreme heat or cold days.
R
OLES&
R
ESPONSIBILITIESIn order to increase awareness amongst staff, the general public, members and organizations; and prevent the spread of bed bugs in the community, the following strategies are proposed:
Awareness & Education Strategies:
Provide training to staff regarding signs of bed bugs (e.g., actual insects, cast skins) and actions required should bed bugs be discovered,
Provide bed bug awareness resources (e.g., pamphlets, fact sheets from www.bedbugsinfo.ca) to staff, the general public, members and organizations, Provide bed bug information via community newsletters or other publications, Promote www.bedbugsinfo.ca as a reliable source of information, and
Offer information sessions to staff and the public to increase awareness.
Control Strategies:
Develop a Bed Bug Response Plan with identified strategies for each type of community facility,
Implement a bed bug monitoring program throughout the facility, and
Develop policies and procedures that include components such as the following: o Limit upholstered furniture and acquire furniture that is easily cleanable.
This will enable greater success for bed bug removal,
o Implement cleaning schedules focusing on lost-and-found areas, upholstered furniture and wall mounted items (e.g., pictures, clocks, bookcases),
o Inspect facilities regularly for signs of bed bugs, and
3.3 LEGISLATION AND ENFORCEMENT
Within the provincial and municipal framework there are statutes, tribunals, by-laws and other resources that are available to assist in the management of bed bugs. While “bed bugs” are not explicitly referred to in provincial legislation, such as the Residential
Tenancies Act, 2006, it is implied in section 20 (1). This is demonstrated in an order
under section 20 of the RTA issued by Landlord and Tenant Board member Rosa Votta, file number SWT-01844:
Determinations:
2. The Landlords failed to keep the rental unit free of a bed bug infestation. Therefore, I find the Landlords failed to meet the Landlords’ obligations under subsection 20(1) of the Act.
The eight municipalities of Durham Region maintain and enforce their own Property Standards by-laws. The by-laws define the parameters for the municipal law enforcement officers however within each municipality internal policy defines their level of involvement.
The following is a scan of provincial legislation, the Landlord and Tenant Board and local by-laws as they pertain to bed bugs.
Provincial Law
The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA)
The RTA gives residential landlords and tenants specific rights and responsibilities, and sets out a process for how these rights and responsibilities can be enforced. For example, landlords have a duty to maintain a residential complex, including the rental units in it. This includes controlling of pests such as cockroaches, mice and bed bugs. A landlord’s responsibility to repair and maintain rental units is described in section 20 of the Act:
Landlord’s responsibility to repair
20. (1) A landlord is responsible for providing and maintaining a residential complex, including the rental units in it, in a good state of repair and fit for habitation and for complying with health, safety, housing and maintenance standards. 2006, c. 17, s. 20 (1).
Same
(2) Subsection (1) applies even if the tenant was aware of a state of non-repair or a contravention of a standard before entering into the tenancy agreement. 2006, c. 17, s. 20 (2).
Landlords have the right to enter to inspect and maintain rental units. Treating an apartment for bed bugs is not considered an emergency therefore; tenants must be given notice in writing 24 hours ahead of time. Section 27 of the Act describes a Landlords right of entry into a unit with notice:
Entry with notice
27. (1) A landlord may enter a rental unit in accordance with written notice given to the tenant at least 24 hours before the time of entry under the following circumstances:
1. To carry out a repair or replacement or do work in the rental unit.
2. To allow a potential mortgagee or insurer of the residential complex to view the rental unit.
3. To allow a person who holds a certificate of authorization within the meaning of the Professional Engineers Act or a certificate of practice within the meaning of the Architects Act or another qualified person to make a physical inspection of the rental unit to satisfy a requirement imposed under subsection 9 (4) of the Condominium Act, 1998.
4. To carry out an inspection of the rental unit, if,
i. the inspection is for the purpose of determining whether or not the rental unit is in a good state of repair and fit for habitation and complies with health, safety, housing and maintenance standards, consistent with the landlord’s obligations under subsection 20 (1) or section 161, and
ii. it is reasonable to carry out the inspection.
5. For any other reasonable reason for entry specified in the tenancy agreement. 2006, c. 17, s. 27 (1).
A tenant’s responsibility for cleanliness is described in Section 33 of the Act. Tenant’s responsibility for cleanliness
33. The tenant is responsible for ordinary cleanliness of the rental unit, except to the extent that the tenancy agreement requires the landlord to clean it. 2006, c. 17, s. 33.
There are several exemptions under the RTA 2006, c 17, s 5. Some of the exemptions are included below:
living accommodation intended to be provided to the traveling or vacationing public or occupied for a seasonal or temporary period in a hotel, motel or motor hotel, resort, lodge, tourist camp, cottage or cabin establishment, inn, campground, trailer park, tourist home, bed and breakfast vacation establishment or vacation home,
living accommodation that is a member unit of a non-profit housing co-operative, short-term living accommodation provided as emergency shelter,
