Michigan Couple Sues Florida Rental Company Over Bed Bug Infestation
In a dramatic legal showdown, a couple from Michigan has filed a lawsuit against a Florida-based rental company, accusing it of negligence that led to their suffering from bed bug bites. Daniel and Joy Smith lodged their complaint in the Circuit Court for the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, on December 10, 2024, targeting 4 VG, LLC for failing to maintain safe lodging conditions.
The Smiths’ case against 4 VG, LLC centers around an alleged breach of duty by the rental company to ensure that the premises were free from hazardous conditions such as bed bugs. The plaintiffs claim that during their stay at the Madeira Beach property on May 23, 2024, they were exposed to these pests due to the defendant’s negligence. “At all times material,” states the complaint, “the Defendant owed the Smiths a duty to ensure the hotel room was kept in a clean, safe, and sanitary condition.” The couple alleges that this duty was breached through various acts of negligence including failure to inspect and clean the premises adequately and neglecting to warn them about potential dangers.
The Smiths argue that these failures directly resulted in them suffering physical injuries and enduring pain and suffering both physically and mentally. They further claim permanent injury and loss of enjoyment of life due to these events. In addition to physical harm, they report incurring medical expenses and losing wages due to their ordeal. Their legal action seeks damages exceeding $50,000 but not more than $75,000 exclusive of interest and costs.