Cockroaches: What Every Hampton Roads Homeowner Needs to Know

If there’s one pest that sends homeowners scrambling, it’s the cockroach. Fast, sneaky, and downright unsettling, roaches are more than just a nuisance—they can also spread bacteria, contaminate food, and trigger allergies. And once you see one, chances are there are more hiding out of sight.

In this post, we’re covering everything you need to know about cockroaches—specifically in the Hampton Roads area. From why they show up in your home to how to get rid of them for good, this is your complete guide to roach control.

Why Do Cockroaches Enter Homes?

Cockroaches are survivors. They enter homes looking for:

• Food (crumbs, grease, pet food, even paper)

• Water (leaks, condensation, humid areas)

• Warmth and shelter, especially during colder months

They’re attracted to cluttered areas, unsealed food, trash bins, and warm, dark hiding spots like under the fridge, behind cabinets, and in crawlspaces.

Common Types of Cockroaches in Hampton Roads

Here in Coastal Virginia, you’re most likely to encounter the following species:

1. German Cockroach

• Small (½ inch), light brown with two dark stripes on the back

• Found indoors, especially in kitchens and bathrooms

• Breeds extremely fast—one of the hardest to eliminate without help

2. American Cockroach (aka "Waterbug")

• Large (1.5–2 inches), reddish-brown with a yellowish band behind the head

• Prefers damp, dark places like crawlspaces and basements

• Can fly short distances and is very resilient

3. Oriental Cockroach

• Dark brown to black, about 1 inch long

• Slow-moving but thrives in moisture-heavy areas

• Common in drains, crawlspaces, and under porches

4. Smoky Brown Cockroach

• Uniform dark brown, good fliers

• Typically found outside but will come in through attic vents or poorly sealed doors

Are Cockroaches Dangerous?

Yes—and not just because they’re creepy.

Cockroaches can:

• Trigger asthma and allergies, especially in children

• Spread bacteria like E. coli and salmonella

• Contaminate food and kitchen surfaces

• Leave behind droppings, shed skins, and a foul odor

• Roaches are resilient and hard to kill completely without a targeted, professional approach.

Signs You Have a Roach Problem

If you’re seeing cockroaches, especially during the day, it usually means the infestation is advanced. Early warning signs include:

• Live or dead roaches, especially at night

• Droppings that look like black pepper or coffee grounds

• Egg cases (oothecae) in drawers, cabinets, or behind appliances

• Musty odor, especially in areas with high roach activity

• Smear marks in moist areas like baseboards and behind the toilet

How to Prevent Cockroaches in Your Home

While roaches are tough, there are several steps you can take to make your home less inviting:

1. Keep It Clean

• Wipe down counters and sweep floors regularly

• Clean under appliances and behind the stove

• Don’t leave dirty dishes overnight

2. Seal Entry Points

• Fix cracks in walls, around baseboards, and under sinks

• Install door sweeps and seal gaps in windows

3. Eliminate Moisture

• Fix leaky faucets and pipes

• Use a dehumidifier in crawlspaces or basements

• Ensure good ventilation in bathrooms and laundry rooms

4. Store Food Properly

• Use sealed containers for dry goods

• Keep pet food in airtight bins

• Take out trash regularly

DIY Cockroach Control vs. Professional Treatment

It’s tempting to grab a can of roach spray or a box of bait traps from the store. While these may kill a few roaches, they rarely solve the core problem.

DIY Limitations:

• Most sprays only affect visible roaches, not hidden nests

• Roaches can develop resistance to common over-the-counter products

• Missed egg cases will lead to new infestations within weeks

• Without proper sanitation and exclusion, they’ll return

Why Professional Help Works:

At Busby’s Precision Pest, we don’t just spray and leave. We:

1. Identify the species and behavior patterns

2. Find and treat nesting areas, not just visible bugs

3. Use safe, targeted treatments that eliminate roaches at the source

4. Offer ongoing prevention plans to stop future infestations

When Are Roaches Most Active in Hampton Roads?

Cockroaches are active year-round in Hampton Roads but are most aggressive from April to October, when humidity and temperatures rise.

American and smoky brown roaches tend to surge in the summer, while German cockroaches can thrive indoors all year—especially in homes with warmth and moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cockroaches

Q: Are cockroaches only found in dirty homes?
A: Not at all. Even clean homes can get roaches—especially German cockroaches, which often enter through grocery bags, cardboard boxes, or secondhand furniture.

Q: Can roaches survive without food?
A: Yes. Some species can live for up to a month without food, but they need water. That’s why leaky pipes or high humidity can still attract them.

Q: How long does professional treatment take?
A: Most clients see a noticeable reduction within 24–72 hours. Depending on severity, 2–3 treatments may be needed to fully eliminate the infestation and egg cycles.

Q: Are your treatments safe for kids and pets?
A: Absolutely. We use EPA-approved products and offer low-toxicity, pet-safe options. We’ll always walk you through any precautions needed.

Ready to Reclaim Your Home from Roaches?

Cockroaches are one of the most persistent pests in Hampton Roads—but you don’t have to live with them. Whether you’ve spotted a few or are dealing with a full-blown infestation, Busby’s Precision Pest & Damage Control is here to help.

BUSBY PRECISION PEST & DAMAGE CONTROL offers fast, effective, and affordable cockroach control that’s tailored to your home’s unique needs. Don’t wait until it gets worse—let’s stop the problem at the source.

👉 Schedule a Free Inspection Today