What to Do When You Find a Cockroach

If you have a cockroach problem, the first thing to do is to identify the cockroach’s location. A single cockroach can be a sign of a larger infestation, so you need to take appropriate steps to eliminate the roach from your home. Cockroaches are mostly nocturnal creatures and will only venture outdoors during daylight if the environment is hospitable to their needs.

Cockroaches are attracted to trash cans because they contain an ample supply of food. To prevent this problem, be sure to rinse trash cans and seal the lid. Also, keep your house clean by checking for leaks and other possible entry points. If you find a leaky pipe, for example, cockroaches like moist areas, so be sure to fix it.

Cockroaches breed quickly. They leave behind a trail of smear marks, and they also leave egg cases, or oothecae. These long brown capsules contain the cockroach’s eggs. If you find these egg cases, you can determine where the cockroach is nesting.

If you’re an apartment dweller, cockroaches can be a problem. You can ask your property manager to help you remove them, depending on the terms of your lease agreement. If you notice any leaks, you can fix them as well to eliminate the cockroaches. This can help prevent future infestations of the roaches.