The Cockroach Guide
The Cockroach
Guide
Because No One Plans for These Neighbours
Because No One Plans for
These Neighbours
Finding cockroaches in your space is like discovering someone's been hosting underground parties in your kitchen - except these guests have no intention of leaving. From converted warehouses to garden flats, these resilient locals have mastered the art of making themselves at home across London.
Get rid of uninvited guests – Call us today.
Get rid of uninvited guests
Get rid of uninvited guests
Understanding Your Uninvited Residents
Understanding Your
Uninvited Residents
The German Cockroach: The Strategic Settler
At just 1.5cm, they're partial to your kitchen's prime real estate, especially those warm spots behind appliances where they run their own underground network.
Characteristics to look for:
The size of your thumb nail but moves like an Olympic sprinter.
Light brown, racing stripes included.
Master of stealth kitchen operations.
Breeds faster than Shoreditch launches pop-ups.
The Oriental Cockroach: The Basement Dweller
At a sturdy 3cm, these dark wanderers treat your property's damp spots like their personal spa retreat, turning forgotten cellar corners and pipe works into their private members' club.
Characteristics to look for:
Dark brown to black, built like a tank, moves like one too.
Thrives in those classic London basement conversions.
Attracted to cooler, damper conditions.
About as welcome as rain on a Bank Holiday
The German Cockroach: The Strategic Settler
At just 1.5cm, they're partial to your kitchen's prime real estate, especially those warm spots behind appliances where they run their own underground network.
Characteristics to look for:
The size of your thumb nail but moves like an Olympic sprinter.
Light brown, racing stripes included.
Master of stealth kitchen operations.
Breeds faster than Shoreditch launches pop-ups.
The Oriental Cockroach: The Basement Dweller
At a sturdy 3cm, these dark wanderers treat your property's damp spots like their personal spa retreat, turning forgotten cellar corners and pipe works into their private members' club.
Characteristics to look for:
Dark brown to black, built like a tank, moves like one too.
Thrives in those classic London basement conversions.
Attracted to cooler, damper conditions.
About as welcome as rain on a Bank Holiday
The German Cockroach: The Strategic Settler
No matter what kind of insect infestation you're facing, it’s crucial to act quickly. Whether at home or at work, an infestation poses a public health risk, as insects can spread bacteria and diseases.
Characteristics to look for:
The size of your thumb nail but moves like an Olympic sprinter.
Light brown, racing stripes included.
Master of stealth kitchen operations.
Breeds faster than Shoreditch launches pop-ups.
The Oriental Cockroach: The Basement Dweller
No matter what kind of insect infestation you're facing, it’s crucial to act quickly. Whether at home or at work, an infestation poses a public health risk, as insects can spread bacteria and diseases.
Characteristics to look for:
Dark brown to black, built like a tank, moves like one too.
Thrives in those classic London basement conversions.
Attracted to cooler, damper conditions.
About as welcome as rain on a Bank Holiday
Signs You're Running an Accidental Hotel
The thing about cockroaches is they're worse at hiding their tracks than a tourist with an Oyster card
The Signature Scent:
There's a distinct musty aroma that's definitely not your sourdough starter
Like that forgotten gym bag, but with a uniquely cockroach twist
The Night Shift:
Highly photophobic - scatters faster than last orders at the pub when lights flick on
Makes more midnight snack runs than a student during finals
The Evidence Trail:
Dark, pepper-like droppings (2mm) near entry point
Greasy smear marks along skirting boards and wall junctions from their nightly commutes
Egg cases (oothecae) tucked into cracks - each capable of producing up to 40 new residents
Cockroach FAQs
Whether you've spotted a single scout or discovered a full-blown colony, cockroaches are tenants nobody signs up for. Here are your cockroach questions answered, backed by our BPCA-certified expertise and proven elimination strategies.
Whether you've spotted a single scout or discovered a full-blown colony, cockroaches are tenants nobody signs up for. Here are your cockroach questions answered, backed by our BPCA-certified expertise and proven elimination strategies.
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4,9
Based on 301 reviews
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Based on 301 reviews
How do I know if I have cockroaches?
Early signs include dark droppings resembling ground pepper, suspicious smear marks along your walls, and an unmistakable musty odor that's often described as 'oily.' Most London residents first spot activity in their kitchens after dark, when switching on lights sends these nocturnal locals scurrying for cover. If you're seeing one cockroach, there's likely a whole community nearby.
How do I know if I have cockroaches?
Early signs include dark droppings resembling ground pepper, suspicious smear marks along your walls, and an unmistakable musty odor that's often described as 'oily.' Most London residents first spot activity in their kitchens after dark, when switching on lights sends these nocturnal locals scurrying for cover. If you're seeing one cockroach, there's likely a whole community nearby.
How do I know if I have cockroaches?
Early signs include dark droppings resembling ground pepper, suspicious smear marks along your walls, and an unmistakable musty odor that's often described as 'oily.' Most London residents first spot activity in their kitchens after dark, when switching on lights sends these nocturnal locals scurrying for cover. If you're seeing one cockroach, there's likely a whole community nearby.
Where do cockroaches hide in homes?
Like savvy London property hunters, cockroaches have a knack for prime locations. They prefer warm, humid spaces close to food and water sources. Their top spots include the void behind your fridge, the cozy space under your sink, and those awkward gaps behind kitchen cabinets. In older properties, they're particularly fond of pipe chases and wall voids where plumbing offers both warmth and moisture.
Where do cockroaches hide in homes?
Like savvy London property hunters, cockroaches have a knack for prime locations. They prefer warm, humid spaces close to food and water sources. Their top spots include the void behind your fridge, the cozy space under your sink, and those awkward gaps behind kitchen cabinets. In older properties, they're particularly fond of pipe chases and wall voids where plumbing offers both warmth and moisture.
Where do cockroaches hide in homes?
Like savvy London property hunters, cockroaches have a knack for prime locations. They prefer warm, humid spaces close to food and water sources. Their top spots include the void behind your fridge, the cozy space under your sink, and those awkward gaps behind kitchen cabinets. In older properties, they're particularly fond of pipe chases and wall voids where plumbing offers both warmth and moisture.
What attracts cockroaches to my property?
It's all about location, location, location - with access to food, water, and warmth being their absolute must-haves. Even the smallest food debris can sustain them, while leaky pipes and poor ventilation create their ideal climate. They can squeeze through gaps as small as 1.6mm - about the thickness of a penny - making proper sealing essential for prevention.
What attracts cockroaches to my property?
It's all about location, location, location - with access to food, water, and warmth being their absolute must-haves. Even the smallest food debris can sustain them, while leaky pipes and poor ventilation create their ideal climate. They can squeeze through gaps as small as 1.6mm - about the thickness of a penny - making proper sealing essential for prevention.
What attracts cockroaches to my property?
It's all about location, location, location - with access to food, water, and warmth being their absolute must-haves. Even the smallest food debris can sustain them, while leaky pipes and poor ventilation create their ideal climate. They can squeeze through gaps as small as 1.6mm - about the thickness of a penny - making proper sealing essential for prevention.
Are cockroaches dangerous to health?
Beyond the obvious unpleasantness of sharing your space with these uninvited guests, cockroaches pose genuine health risks. They're particularly problematic for London's growing population of asthma sufferers, as their shed skins and droppings are powerful allergen triggers. More concerning is their habit of sampling everything from sewage to your sourdough starter, making them efficient carriers of bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. In essence, they're like that questionable takeaway that delivers cross-contamination with every visit.
Are cockroaches dangerous to health?
Beyond the obvious unpleasantness of sharing your space with these uninvited guests, cockroaches pose genuine health risks. They're particularly problematic for London's growing population of asthma sufferers, as their shed skins and droppings are powerful allergen triggers. More concerning is their habit of sampling everything from sewage to your sourdough starter, making them efficient carriers of bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. In essence, they're like that questionable takeaway that delivers cross-contamination with every visit.
Are cockroaches dangerous to health?
Beyond the obvious unpleasantness of sharing your space with these uninvited guests, cockroaches pose genuine health risks. They're particularly problematic for London's growing population of asthma sufferers, as their shed skins and droppings are powerful allergen triggers. More concerning is their habit of sampling everything from sewage to your sourdough starter, making them efficient carriers of bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. In essence, they're like that questionable takeaway that delivers cross-contamination with every visit.
Is professional treatment safe for my home?
Professional cockroach control is more precisely targeted than a London postcode. We use gel baits and strategic product placement rather than the broad-spray approaches of yesteryear. Our treatments are specifically designed for occupied properties, with clear protocols for families, pets, and even your houseplants. We'll provide you with straightforward guidance on post-treatment precautions, ensuring your peace of mind throughout the process.
Is professional treatment safe for my home?
Professional cockroach control is more precisely targeted than a London postcode. We use gel baits and strategic product placement rather than the broad-spray approaches of yesteryear. Our treatments are specifically designed for occupied properties, with clear protocols for families, pets, and even your houseplants. We'll provide you with straightforward guidance on post-treatment precautions, ensuring your peace of mind throughout the process.
Is professional treatment safe for my home?
Professional cockroach control is more precisely targeted than a London postcode. We use gel baits and strategic product placement rather than the broad-spray approaches of yesteryear. Our treatments are specifically designed for occupied properties, with clear protocols for families, pets, and even your houseplants. We'll provide you with straightforward guidance on post-treatment precautions, ensuring your peace of mind throughout the process.
Why isn't DIY enough for cockroach control?
Much like trying to fix London's transport system with a part-time traffic warden, DIY solutions rarely address the root of a cockroach problem. These resilient creatures have developed resistance to many over-the-counter products, and their colonies extend far beyond visible areas. Professional treatment targets breeding sites and uses specialized products unavailable to the public, ensuring complete elimination rather than just surface-level control.
Why isn't DIY enough for cockroach control?
Much like trying to fix London's transport system with a part-time traffic warden, DIY solutions rarely address the root of a cockroach problem. These resilient creatures have developed resistance to many over-the-counter products, and their colonies extend far beyond visible areas. Professional treatment targets breeding sites and uses specialized products unavailable to the public, ensuring complete elimination rather than just surface-level control.
Why isn't DIY enough for cockroach control?
Much like trying to fix London's transport system with a part-time traffic warden, DIY solutions rarely address the root of a cockroach problem. These resilient creatures have developed resistance to many over-the-counter products, and their colonies extend far beyond visible areas. Professional treatment targets breeding sites and uses specialized products unavailable to the public, ensuring complete elimination rather than just surface-level control.
How long until I see results from professional treatment?
Professional treatment starts showing results within 24-48 hours, but complete control typically requires 2-3 treatment cycles over several weeks. Think of it like a well-planned campaign rather than a quick skirmish. The process ensures we're not just dealing with the visible population but eliminating those hiding in hard-to-reach places and preventing future generations.
How long until I see results from professional treatment?
Professional treatment starts showing results within 24-48 hours, but complete control typically requires 2-3 treatment cycles over several weeks. Think of it like a well-planned campaign rather than a quick skirmish. The process ensures we're not just dealing with the visible population but eliminating those hiding in hard-to-reach places and preventing future generations.
How long until I see results from professional treatment?
Professional treatment starts showing results within 24-48 hours, but complete control typically requires 2-3 treatment cycles over several weeks. Think of it like a well-planned campaign rather than a quick skirmish. The process ensures we're not just dealing with the visible population but eliminating those hiding in hard-to-reach places and preventing future generations.
How long does it take to get rid of cockroaches completely?
Initial treatment takes 2-3 hours, but complete elimination usually requires 2-3 visits over several weeks. Some situations might need extended treatment - cockroaches are persistent, but so are we.
How long does it take to get rid of cockroaches completely?
Initial treatment takes 2-3 hours, but complete elimination usually requires 2-3 visits over several weeks. Some situations might need extended treatment - cockroaches are persistent, but so are we.
How long does it take to get rid of cockroaches completely?
Initial treatment takes 2-3 hours, but complete elimination usually requires 2-3 visits over several weeks. Some situations might need extended treatment - cockroaches are persistent, but so are we.
Can I stay in my property during cockroach treatment?
Yes, but you'll need a brief holiday from your kitchen (2-4 hours). We'll give you specific instructions that are easier to follow than your smart TV manual.
Can I stay in my property during cockroach treatment?
Yes, but you'll need a brief holiday from your kitchen (2-4 hours). We'll give you specific instructions that are easier to follow than your smart TV manual.
Can I stay in my property during cockroach treatment?
Yes, but you'll need a brief holiday from your kitchen (2-4 hours). We'll give you specific instructions that are easier to follow than your smart TV manual.
Minutes to book. Answer within 24 hours.
Expert team dispatched. Problem solved. Permanently.
Minutes to book.
Answer within 24 hours.
Expert team dispatched.
Problem solved. Permanently.
Minutes to book. Answer within 24 hours.
Expert team dispatched. Problem solved. Permanently.
Book Your Pest
Control Services
Are you looking for pest control services? We are backed by the BPCA and work in various settings, from industrial and commercial to residential. Complete the contact form and one of our highly trained specialists will contact you for a bespoke quote.
Insects including bed bugs, cockroaches, hornets and wasps
Rodents including mice and rat control
Cleaning Services
Commercial Fumigation Services
Extermination Services
Dealing with an unknown pest? We are experienced in identifying the problem and creating a bespoke solution tosuit your needs. Call 0208 146 1490 to talk to our team and get the help you need to solve your pest problem.
Book Your Pest
Control Services
Are you looking for pest control services? We are backed by the BPCA and work in various settings, from industrial and commercial to residential. Complete the contact form and one of our highly trained specialists will contact you for a bespoke quote.
Insects including bed bugs, cockroaches, hornets and wasps
Rodents including mice and rat control
Cleaning Services
Commercial Fumigation Services
Extermination Services
Dealing with an unknown pest? We are experienced in identifying the problem and creating a bespoke solution tosuit your needs. Call 0208 146 1490 to talk to our team and get the help you need to solve your pest problem.
Book Your Pest
Control Services
Are you looking for pest control services? We are backed by the BPCA and work in various settings, from industrial and commercial to residential. Complete the contact form and one of our highly trained specialists will contact you for a bespoke quote.
Insects including bed bugs, cockroaches, hornets and wasps
Rodents including mice and rat control
Cleaning Services
Commercial Fumigation Services
Extermination Services
Dealing with an unknown pest? We are experienced in identifying the problem and creating a bespoke solution tosuit your needs. Call 0208 146 1490 to talk to our team and get the help you need to solve your pest problem.