Surveying a property for cockroach infestation can be a tedious task – and one that requires the right equipment and techniques to accurately determine the degree of infestation. Cockroaches are among the most common household pests in Australia, and while it seems like cockroaches are hard to prevent and get rid of, it is actually easy – you just need the right team.
Cockroaches are nocturnal creatures, making it quite difficult to notice their presence. But if you find cockroaches lingering around your property in broad daylight, it could mean that your place is already infested. With the assistance of our licensed inspectors from Termex Pest Management, we can figure out the location of their harbourages, eliminate the pests and prevent them from coming back.
Preventing Cockroach Infestation
Cockroaches invade your property because of the food sources; reducing the availability of food and water can keep them out of your home. Food items should be sealed or kept inside the refrigerator and the kitchen and dining area must be cleaned. Utensils and dishes that are left unwashed overnight can attract cockroaches and other pests. Any leftover food must be stored and not left lying around. Rubbish bin lids should be tightly closed and trash should be taken out regularly. Bins must also be cleaned thoroughly to remove residue from food materials.
Our team may also check for water leaks and problems in your plumbing system to make sure that water availability to these pests is reduced. If leaking problems are found, these should be repaired immediately.
Treating Cockroach Infestations
Where an infestation has been established, our technicians will carry out a treatment method for killing the roaches. In most situations, this involves the use of insecticides. However, prior to the start of the treatment, we suggest that the premises be cleaned to avoid reinfestation caused by messy surroundings.
Chemical treatment can be done in several ways:
Surface spraying – wettable powders or emulsifiable concentrates are applied to cracks and crevices where the cockroaches could be hiding. It can also be sprayed on surfaces where the creepy crawlies might be travelling. When they come in contact with the insecticide, the cockroaches eventually die. If the kitchen or any other areas where food items are stored are to be treated, food products should be kept away or properly sealed to ensure that they do not become contaminated with the chemical.
Dusting – if surface spraying will cause damage or staining of the material to be sprayed on, the dusting process will be implemented instead. Dusting is the better option when treatment involves carpets, appliances and other items where wet spray cannot be used.
Baits and Traps – baiting and trapping can also be done for cockroaches, especially after their shelter has already been located. Baiting can be used as a stand-alone solution, or together with other methods. However, this process will take longer before the results are seen.
Cockroach control does not stop with the eradication of the pests. We recommend that properties be regularly inspected and monitored for infestations, not just for cockroaches but all other types of pests.