Everything you ever wanted to know about cockroaches
We have more than 20 years’ experience in the pest control industry and we only use the latest proven treatments to eradicate your pests, including cockroaches.
Here you will find the answers to questions that are often asked by our customers. If your question isn’t listed below, then don’t hesitate to contact us on 1300 725 758 or send us an email enquiry.
What are the most common types of cockroaches found in Australian homes?
There are six different species of cockroaches found in Australia. Three of these, the Australian, American and German species, are those most common found in Aussie homes.
- Periplaneta australasiae (Australian cockroach) – Brown with a yellow band around the head and 23 to 35mm long
- Blatta orientalis (Oriental cockroach) – Dark brown to black and 20 to 25mm long
- Blattella germanica (German cockroach) – Tan or light brown with two dark brown bands along the edge of the body; 13 to 16mm long
- Periplaneta americana (American cockroach) – Reddish brown with a light yellow band behind the head and up to 53mm long
- Supella longipalpa (Brown Banded cockroach) – Light to dark brown body and 11 to 14.5mm long
- Periplaneta fuliginosa (Smoky Brown cockroach) – Smokey brown in colour and between 35 to 38mm long
Where do cockroaches live?
These nocturnal insects prefer warm and humid conditions, but can be found everywhere, regardless of climate. They like to be near food and water so are commonly seen in your kitchen at night when they come out to feed. During the day they tend to live in cracks or crevices, but any damp and dark area can be home to cockroaches.
Why do I have cockroaches in my home?
It’s not because your home is dirty and not well-maintained that you have cockroaches, it’s simply because they have found a dark and humid place to live during the day and a source of food for their night time excursions.
How do cockroaches get into my home?
These insects have multiple modes of entry, from cracks or crevices in brickwork to hiding in suitcases, shopping bags and even brand new appliances. Then there are open doors and windows, as well as pipes and drains, and they can even fly through the air!
Are cockroaches dangerous?
Cockroaches are considered dangerous because they can carry microorganisms that can cause Salmonella, Listeriosis, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Cholera, Dysentery, Hepatitis, Typhoid and E.coli infections, transferring harmful microorganisms to your food and resulting in serious illnesses. In addition, they can trigger allergies or asthma attacks in susceptible people; up to 60% of asthma sufferers who live in cities are allergic to cockroaches.
Can cockroaches fly?
Yes. Most cockroaches can fly, except for the German and Oriental species.
How do I get rid of cockroaches?
The most effective way to eradicate cockroaches is to identify the species, size, distribution and location of the infestation, so that the right type of professional treatment can be used.
How do I know if I have a cockroach infestation?
If you see one cockroach scurrying away when you turn on the light in the kitchen at night, then you know you have an infestation. There’s rarely just one cockroach in your home. If you see multiple cockroaches at the same time, then you really have an overwhelming problem that needs rectifying as soon as possible. Remember that in just a single year, one cockroach can produce 200 to 300 offspring, so if you have 100 cockroaches in your home that equals 20,000 to 30,000 in your home after a year!
Where should I look for cockroaches?
If you suspect that you have cockroaches, but haven’t seen them at night scurrying around, then check in the following areas:
- Kitchens: In cupboards and under the sink, fridge, freezer and dishwasher, even inside appliances
- Bathrooms: Behind or under cabinetry and any warm, moist and dark places
- Laundries: Same as for bathrooms, but also inside large appliances, such as washers and dryers
- Outdoors: Behind garages, under decking or any area that’s sheltered, dark, warm and moist
How do I prevent a cockroach infestation?
The best way to prevent a cockroach infestation is to clean away any crumbs or food debris, so that there’s no readily available food source. So clean under the fridge, freezer and dishwasher in the kitchen, as well as keep the tray of the toaster free of crumbs.
Empty the kitchen bin frequently and always keep the lid closed to prevent entry. Don’t store food in open containers, clean pet bowls after every meal and don’t leave used plates, cups and dishes overnight in the sink.
How long do cockroaches live?
The lifespan of cockroaches depends on the species. For example, the American cockroach lives for about 18 months, the Oriental and Australian cockroaches for 6 months, the German cockroach for 100 days, the Brown Banded cockroach for 10 months, whilst the Smoky Brown cockroach can live up to three years.
Are shop bought cockroach baits effective in getting rid of infestations?
Shop bought baits can be used to kill cockroaches. The problem is that they only kill the cockroach that eats the bait, leaving the remaining hundreds or thousands to freely wander around your home and breed. To effectively eradicate these insects from your home you need a professional treatment from an experienced operator.
Are your cockroach treatments environmentally friendly?
Yes, all D-Tec cockroach treatments are environmentally friendly and are 100% compliant with Australian Standards.
How quickly do the D-Tec treatments work?
It’s difficult to say how quickly our treatments work to eradicate your cockroach infestation, because it depends on the species, size and distribution of the infestation. What we can say, however, is that our treatments are very successful and you will soon have a cockroach-free home.
Do you have a payment plan?
Yes, but only for termite treatments, not for eradicating cockroaches.
