Pest control SOS: I’ve found cockroaches in my property

Cockroaches are resilient and unsightly pests, having the uncanny ability to infiltrate homes and business premises unnoticed. Discovering a cockroach infestation can be alarming, but understanding their habits and using strategic pest control measures can help prevent the issue.

Here’s everything you need to know about cockroach infestations.

What season do cockroaches appear?

Unfortunately, you can find cockroach infestations at any time of year. These pests aren’t
bound by the limitations of seasonal changes like many other creatures.

Cockroaches are nocturnal and often more active and visible in warmer months when they reproduce. However, in the colder seasons, they seek refuge indoors, drawn to warmth and safety.

It’s important to stay vigilant to cockroach infestations in every season, as they are well known to carry harmful diseases (such as salmonella) and their faeces are linked to health issues like allergic reactions in asthma sufferers.

What attracts cockroaches into properties?

Cockroaches are attracted to many things within a property, including food, water and a warm shelter. Crumbs, grease and food residue left unattended in kitchens and dining spaces act as magnets for these pests. Additionally, leaky taps, standing water and damp areas may provide water sources for them.

Dark and cluttered spaces also entice cockroaches, as they provide ideal hiding spots. They get into homes and commercial premises via numerous routes, sometimes through neighbouring properties or holes in the walls and floors. They may also be hiding in food parcels that arrive from elsewhere.

What are the signs of cockroaches?

Finding cockroaches early is essential, as they love hot and humid spots like bathrooms and kitchens. Signs of their presence include small faeces that resemble coffee grounds or black pepper. They leave smear marks on surfaces from touching grease and dirt, so look for these along walls and skirting boards.

Cockroaches emit a distinct, musty odour that becomes worse as they breed. You may also notice cockroach egg casings, which are small, oval-shaped structures. If you see live oriental cockroaches, they’re 20 to 24mm long and shiny black or brown in colour. Other species can look very different, so it’s important to ask a professional pest controller to assess.

How can you get rid of cockroaches?

Getting rid of cockroaches requires a strategic approach, as stamping on them can spread the eggs, and they can survive several months without food. Hire a pest control expert to deal with a cockroach problem, as they’ll have special chemicals and equipment to eliminate all the pests.

Other measures to prevent cockroach infestation include thorough cleaning to remove food debris and sealing entry points.

Got a cockroach problem? Get in touch

Have you noticed a cockroach infestation at your property? Effective Pest Solutions can help, offering professional cockroach control options. We work across the South East, including Fulham, Oxshott and Oxted.

For more advice, contact us.