Oriental Cockroach

Where it lives

Drains, sewers, soakaways, cisterns, basements, garage sumps and shaded external courtyards. Prefers cool, damp conditions and is a poor climber, so it is usually found at floor level.

Signs

• Large dark cockroaches in bathrooms, garages and yards after dark
• Insects emerging from floor gullies, shower drains and manhole covers
• Dead specimens found in sinks, baths and swimming pool skimmers
• A strong musty odour near drain runs

Risks

• Moves directly from sewage to living space, carrying enteric bacteria
• Contaminates surfaces, pet bowls and stored items in garages
• Blocks and fouls drainage traps
• Distressing and highly visible, particularly in rented and hospitality property

Prevention

• Keep every floor gully and shower trap filled with water. A dry trap is an open door
• Fit drain guards to unused gullies and yard drains
• Repair damaged manhole covers and seal gaps around soil pipes
• Clear leaf litter, rubble and stored materials from shaded external areas
• Ventilate basements and reduce standing water

Treatment

We treat the source rather than the room: residual insecticide and dust applied to drain runs, manholes, wall bases and harbourage, with bait stations in basements and proofing of entry gullies. External perimeter treatment during the summer prevents seasonal migration indoors.