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Multiple Family Housing

AgriSense BCS Ltd © - Enviroment Picture - Multiple Family Housing

Eradication of insects using a range of approved insecticides and equipment is nearly always possible, but location and verification of the pest problem is the primary concern. In complex buildings this is not always easy and normal practices include visual inspection and use of monitoring traps.

Cockroaches are a high risk pest to have in the home. They carry a range of serious illnesses including salmonella, dysentery, gastroenteritis and typhoid. The risk is particularly high in homes with children, the elderly or those fighting illnesses. Cockroach droppings also cause eczema and asthma.

Beyond the health risks, cockroaches are a distasteful pest to have in the home. Not only are they disturbing by sight, but cockroaches produce an obnoxious odour that taints food and objects they come into contact with. Cockroaches can breed rapidly and are highly resilient. A quick response is essential to ensure a cockroach infestation does not become established or spread to neighbouring properties.

Normally an infestation is revealed when homeowners see live insects. However as cockroaches are nocturnal and hide during the day the only way to find them is to do a night inspection, when it may be possible to see them by turning on a room light. Alternatively sticky traps in suspect areas can help not only trap cockroaches, but aid in the identification which in turn can help eliminate the source.

Cockroaches shed their skin 5-8 times as they mature and so egg cases and cast skins can also help oidentify infestations, as can droppings. Cockroaches leave a dust of black droppings less than 1mm wide and of varying lengths or their odour. Established cockroach infestations produce an unpleasant, musty smell.