Seeing roaches right after a pest control visit is one of the most common worries we hear. Often it’s part of how the treatment works, especially with German cockroaches. But not always. Here’s how to tell the difference and what to do in the meantime.
Why you may see more roaches at first
- The treatment brings them out of hiding. As the treatment takes effect, roaches can leave cracks and cabinets and show up in the open.
- Eggs hatch after the visit. A German cockroach female carries her egg case, which usually holds 30 to 40 eggs, until just before the eggs hatch (UF/IFAS). Small young roaches can keep appearing in the weeks after the first visit, which is why follow-up visits are part of the plan.
- It works over days and weeks, not hours. Roaches have to come into contact with the treated areas, and some of it is carried back to their hiding spots.
- Palmetto bugs wander in. Large American cockroaches, also called palmetto bugs, live outside and wander in, especially after heavy rain. An occasional one in a garage or entryway doesn’t mean you have an indoor infestation.
What’s usually normal
- More roaches in the kitchen or bathroom in the first days after the treatment
- Slow-moving roaches out in the open
- Small young German cockroaches appearing over the following weeks, while follow-up visits continue
- An occasional palmetto bug that came in from outside
When to call us
- Activity isn’t going down over the following weeks
- You’re seeing roaches in rooms where you didn’t see them before
- You’re seeing a lot of roaches during the day
- You’re not sure what kind of roach you’re seeing
Call or text 786-849-8713 and tell us when the service was done, what you’re seeing and where. Photos help. If you’re on an active service plan, we’ll explain what your plan covers.
What to do between visits
- Don’t spray them. Store-bought sprays and foggers scatter roaches and can work against the treatment.
- Don’t wipe or spray cleaners on treated spots. Clean around them, and ask us where they are if you’re not sure.
- Keep up with sanitation. Clean grease and crumbs, take out the trash every night, and don’t leave food or pet food out overnight.
- Cut off water. Fix leaks and dry sinks and tubs overnight.
- Keep your follow-up appointment. Follow-up visits are how we check activity and adjust the treatment.
How long until you stop seeing them?
It depends on the type of roach, how established the activity is, the type of property and how closely prep and sanitation steps are followed. German cockroach jobs usually need an initial treatment plus scheduled follow-up visits, and activity usually drops over the following weeks. We’ll recommend a schedule after the inspection.
Learn more about our German cockroach control and general pest control, which covers palmetto bugs.
We’re based in Kendall and serve homes and businesses across Miami-Dade and Broward, with regular routes in Kendall, Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay. We speak English and Spanish.
Sources: UF/IFAS, German Cockroach, Blattella germanica (EENY-002); UF/IFAS, The German Cockroach.
