Brits could be entitled to as much as £4.5k if bed bugs ruin their holidays
Bed bug-bitten Brits could claim thousands if their holiday is ruined by the pests.
Hotels could be forced to pay out as much as £4,500 to travellers if they're plagued by an infestation of the mini-beasts, it has emerged. It comes as fears of bedbugs in hotels have risen in recent weeks following a super-infestation in Paris.
Recent data shows the number of infestations has risen by 65% ear by year, with London Mayor Sadiq Khan describing growing reports about the bugs as “real cause for concern”. The critters have already been spotted aboard UK public transport following fears some may have hopped across the English Channel on the EuroStar.
The bugs are known to lodge themselves in furniture and wardrobes, biting human skin during the night. Infestations are extremely difficult to get rid of, with the bugs able to survive up to six months without food.
But while the rising number of infestations could be devastating for hotels and the holiday industry, lawyers say tourists and guests could be entitled to thousands in compensation if they find themselves victims of a bed bug attack.
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Craig Phillips, a solicitor specialising in customer compensation claims, said one family was awarded £4,500 after a nasty infestation at a Travelodge. “I’ve heard the stories from families, seen the photographic evidence, and thankfully, been able to secure compensation payments for the people who come to us for help,“ he said.
“These aren’t always easy cases to deal with but as a firm we specialise in winning cases that many other firms would reject.“ The solicitor, a partner based with Express Solicitors, said he helped the Travelodge family secure a payout despite the fact the hotel had changed hands since the visit.
Compensation for bed bug claims can cover any medical expenses - such as treatment for bites or subsequent infections - damage to your own property and for the mental impact, as well as wages lost from time off work. While restrictions vary in different countries, the vast majority are required by law to provide clean and safe accommodation. Any trip provided by a UK-based company will be covered by UK law.
Based on his experience dealing with these cases, Mr Phillips has advice for anyone who finds themselves affected by bedbugs: “Documenting everything related to the infestation is crucial including communications with the property owner, photographs of the infestation, medical bills, and receipts for any expenses incurred is essential,“ he said.
How do you know if it's bed bugs?
The bugs themselves can be identified by their small, flat and maroon-coloured appearance. They're normally around 5-7mm each - about the size of an apple seed. The bites present as raised and itchy, often in a line or grouped together.
If you do suspect bed bug bites, it’s important to consult a medical professional as soon as possible to confirm the source of the bites but also document any evidence you find in your hotel room, by taking photos of the bugs themselves or their shed skins.
What to do if you find bed bugs in your hotel
Hotel staff should be told immediately if you spot the bugs in your accommodation. Travellers should insist on a professional inspection of the room and to see the results on that inspection. If they don't offer, Mr Phillips said customers should insist on a copy of the report as you’re entitled to know whether or not the professional inspector found an infestation.
Preventing further spread of bed bugs
As you prepare to move room or pack to leave for home, conduct a full inspection of your own belongings so you're not bringing the pests with you. Check both your suitcase's exterior and your clothing and contents, too.
Some hotels will offer to vacuum your luggage and launder your clothes in hot water as part of an action plan to deal with bed bugs. When you get to a new room, check for evidence of bed bugs under the mattress, around headboards and behind furniture. If there's any evidence of bed bugs in the second room, then it might be time to secure a refund and consider booking another hotel, Mr Phillips said.
He added: “Bed bug bites during your travels can be a distressing experience, but being informed and proactive is key. If you find yourself in such a situation, consulting a personal injury solicitor can help you understand your legal rights and options. Remember to document everything, seek professional advice, and take steps to protect your well-being during and after your trip.”
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