Renting out a known-infested unit is illegal
No. California law prohibits a landlord from showing, renting, or leasing a unit they know has a current bed bug infestation. They cannot offer it until the problem is addressed.
This rule protects new tenants from unknowingly moving into an infested home. If a landlord knew about active bed bugs and rented the unit anyway — or moved you in without disclosing it — they may have broken the law and the duty to provide a habitable home.
It can be hard to prove what a landlord knew, which is why documentation matters. Keep any emails or texts from before and during your move-in, note when the bites or signs started, and save your move-in paperwork and any inspection records. If you moved into an apartment that already had bed bugs, a free, confidential review can help you understand your rights.
This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.