Cockroaches
Treatment, prevention and typical cost.
Signs & symptoms of a pest problem
The earliest signs of pests are usually droppings, gnaw marks, damage, smells and night-time sightings. Catching them early is the difference between a cheap fix and an expensive infestation. Here's what to look for, pest by pest.
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What are the common warning signs?
- Droppings - small dark pellets in cupboards, drawers or along walls.
- Damage - gnawed wood, chewed wiring, holes in fabric or packaging.
- Sounds - scratching or scurrying in walls or ceilings at night.
- Marks - greasy rub marks along skirting, or mud tubes on foundations.
- Sightings - pests active in daylight, when most normally hide.
- Smell - a musty, oily or ammonia-like odour in one area.
What are the signs for each pest?
Different pests leave different clues: termites leave mud tubes and hollow wood; rodents leave droppings and gnaw marks; bed bugs leave tiny blood spots on bedding; cockroaches leave a musty smell and egg cases.
Not sure what you're seeing? Jump to the guide for your suspected pest, or get matched with a local company for an inspection.
Common questions
Spotting a pest problem
Common early signs are droppings, gnaw or chew marks, unexplained damage to wood or fabric, greasy rub marks, shed wings or skins, a musty smell, and pests seen at night. Spotting one usually means more are hidden nearby.
A single insect can be a stray. Repeat sightings, droppings, damage, or seeing pests in daylight (when they normally hide) point to an established infestation that needs treatment rather than a one-off swat.
If you see repeat signs, yes. A professional inspection identifies the pest, how it's getting in, and how far it's spread - which is the difference between a cheap early fix and an expensive one later.
