Many species of cockroaches prefer living with humans to living out in the wild, which is particularly problematic here in New York City, where there is a population of over 8.5 million people. With 3.5 million housing units all compacted in such a condensed area, cockroaches have a seemingly limitless number of places to live. A problem this big demands a big solution; fortunately, we have the ultimate guide to New York cockroach prevention! Ready to dive in? Let’s break this down.

3 COMMON COCKROACHES IN NEW YORK CITY

Not every species of cockroach is a home invader. The three common species of cockroach you need to worry about are the American cockroach, the German cockroach, and the Oriental cockroach:

• The American cockroach is 1-1/4″ to 2-1/8″ long and reddish-brown, and its head is outlined by a yellowish band. This cockroach is the largest species here in North America.
• The German cockroach is about 1/2″ long and a light brown to tan color. These cockroaches are the most common species worldwide; you’re able to find them invading homes on nearly every continent.
• The Oriental cockroach is 1″ long when fully grown, with a shiny black body. This cockroach is a less common but equally prevalent threat here in New York City. Despite its name, it is thought the Oriental cockroach originates from Africa rather than Asia.

Despite their differences, all cockroaches pose a unique and serious risk to the families whose homes they invade. Cockroaches are capable of carrying and transmitting 33 different kinds of bacteria, 7 human pathogens, and 6 dangerous parasitic pests. That’s a lot of ways for you and your family to get sick.

WHAT ATTRACTS COCKROACHES TO NYC HOMES

Most pests invade homes by accident, or to escape inclement weather. Cockroaches are a bit different; they invade because our homes are more comfortable to them than any other abode in the wild. With many places to hide and a nearly infinite amount of food and water sources available, our homes provide cockroaches with everything they need to survive and thrive.

HOW TO IDENTIFY & SEAL POTENTIAL COCKROACH ENTRY POINTS

Cockroaches can get into your home or apartment building in several ways, and due to their flexible exoskeletons can squeeze through tiny openings. To prevent cockroaches from invading, start with a thorough inspection of the exterior of your home. Fill in any cracks or gaps you find using a caulking gun. Common places you will find openings include in your foundation, around window and door frames, and around utility piping.

WHY PROFESSIONAL COCKROACH CONTROL BEATS OUT DIY

Getting cockroaches out of your home is a lot more complicated than preventing them in the first place. With extensive knowledge and the right equipment, you may be able to handle a cockroach problem on your own. However, without the right tools, eliminating roaches in your house will quickly prove to be a strain on your mental health and wallet. Time and again, homeowners tell us horror stories about how their DIY methods for exterminating cockroaches went wrong, due to either not using a chemical-based product correctly or a natural-based deterrent not working at all.

At Broadway Pest Services, we know precisely how to deal with cockroaches: no guesswork, no wasted money – just results. If you are sharing your New York City home with disgusting cockroaches, we are here to help. Quality cockroach control has never been easier! Give us a call or reach out to us through our website, and we will send out one of our highly trained pest technicians with a quick and effective solution to your cockroach problem. Schedule cockroach control services today!