Moving to a new place is not easy and requires a lot of work, so finding cockroaches in your new apartment or rented home is not good.
If you just moved into a new rental and you are considering whether or not to move out due to finding cockroaches, there are a few things you should consider before making a decision.
Roaches are not only unsightly and unsettling, but they can also pose health risks and spread diseases. The question, “Should I move out because of roaches is a serious one, let’s look at what having cockroaches in your place means and what are your possible next steps.
First, consider the severity of the infestation in your current living space. Are you finding cockroaches sporadically, or is it a frequent occurrence?
The magnitude of the problem will influence whether you want to deal with the hassle of moving.
If moving out is something, you want to do you will need to make sure that the roaches do not hitchhike a ride to your new home.
Signs of a Roach Infestation
Visual Evidence
One of the clearest signs of a roach infestation is actually seeing cockroaches in your home. Since cockroaches are bugs that like to come out at night, the best time to spot them is in the evening.
When you enter a room and turn on a light, you may see the cockroaches scatter quickly to hide. You can also look for cockroach droppings as well, which can be found in areas where they feed and hide. These droppings often resemble black pepper or ground coffee.
Other visual evidence includes:
- Cockroach smears: Check surfaces for reddish-brown or brownish streaks that appear due to their body oils.
- Egg cases: Look for small, dark brown casings that house cockroach eggs.
- Shed skins: Keep an eye out for molted exoskeletons left behind as roaches grow.
Health Problems
Cockroach infestations can contribute to health problems in your household. When you have a roach infestation their feces, saliva, and body parts contain allergens that can trigger asthma attacks and allergic reactions.
The worst thing about cockroaches is that they are carriers of bacteria, such as Salmonella and E. coli. Roaches in your home can contaminate your food and cooking surfaces, potentially causing food poisoning or other illnesses.
Here are some signs of health problems caused by roaches:
- Respiratory issues: If you or a family member experiences a sudden increase in asthma attacks, allergies, or other respiratory distress, it could indicate a roach infestation.
- Gastrointestinal illness: Cockroach-linked bacteria can cause symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal cramps.
By being aware of the signs of a roach infestation, you can take appropriate action to control the problem and protect your health.
Assessing the Severity of the Problem
You need to know what you are dealing with to decide if you should move. You need to figure out if it is one cockroach or many.
I. Number of Roaches
The number of roaches you encounter can provide insight into the extent of the cockroach infestation. A few isolated sightings may indicate a minor issue that can be resolved by DIY pest control or hiring an exterminator.
However, if you see:
- Multiple roaches at once
- Roaches frequently throughout the week
- Roaches appearing in various locations of your home
- You are seeing cockroaches during the day
These are signs that the cockroach infestation may be really bad.
II. Damage to Property
Cockroaches can cause damage to your personal property, including:
- Contaminating food sources
- Damaging items with their feces
- Chewing on materials like wallpaper, clothing, or books
- Spreading bacteria and diseases
Figure out how bad the problem is and what is the damage to the property from the current roach infestation.
Additionally, be on the lookout for roach eggs and egg cases. These can be indicators of a large cockroach infestation. If you spot egg cases or notice a repeating cycle of newly hatched roaches, it’s important to take action to prevent further damage and health risks.
Remember, figuring out how bad the roach problem is in your home will help you make an informed decision about moving.
Roach Control and Prevention
I. DIY Methods
To control roaches in your home, you can try some simple DIY methods:
- Cleanliness: Maintain a clean-living space to avoid attracting roaches. Wipe down countertops, sweep floors, and eliminate standing water.
- Seal cracks and gaps: Use caulk or sealant to close any openings that roaches could use to enter your home.
- Remove potential hiding spots: Keep clutter to a minimum and avoid piles of cardboard or paper, where roaches can hide.
- Use traps: Set out glue strips or traps to monitor and capture roaches. Place them in areas of suspected activity, like between appliances or in cabinets.
- Natural deterrents: Use natural remedies such as diatomaceous earth, boric acid, or gel-based baits to control roach infestations.
- Vacuum regularly: Vacuum your floors frequently to remove roach droppings, which can attract more roaches.
- Insecticides: You can use commercial-grade insecticides, gels, and baits to get rid of cockroaches on your own.
II. Professional Pest Control
If your roach infestation is severe or persistent, consider contacting a professional pest control service. Professionals can identify the type of roach and the severity of the infestation, then customize a treatment plan for your situation. Some benefits of hiring a professional include:
- Expertise: Licensed exterminators know the most effective methods and products to control specific roach species.
- Safety: Professionals use industry-regulated chemicals and practices to ensure the safety of your family and pets.
- Guarantees: Many pest control services offer guarantees or warranties on their work, ensuring the problem is resolved or they will continue treatments at no additional cost.
- Preventative care: Exterminators often provide follow-up visits and tips for preventing future infestations.
Remember, control and prevention are essential in managing roach infestations. By employing both DIY methods and, if necessary, professional pest control, you can effectively tackle roach problems in your home.
Should I Move if I Have Roaches in my Apartment or House Rental
You need to first notify your landlord or property manager as soon as you notice roaches in your rental property. Cockroach infestations can spread quickly in apartment complexes, so your landlord or property manager should address the issue promptly.
You should also take some steps to make your home not attract cockroaches. Identify any possible food and water sources for them and remove or adequately seal those sources.
Conduct a thorough inspection to find out where the roaches might be hiding and seal cracks and crevices to prevent their access.
It’s essential to consider the severity of the infestation when deciding whether or not to move due to roaches. If your landlord or property manager is taking immediate action to take care of the issue, it may not be necessary to move out immediately.
However, if the infestation is severe, you might want to consider temporarily relocating while professional exterminators manage the problem.
Keep in mind that if you opt to move to a new rental, you should take precautions to avoid bringing roaches with you. These steps may include:
- Inspect your belongings for any presence of roaches as you pack
- Remove packed items from your infested apartment
- Know the signs of roaches and be cautious while unpacking in your new place
The decision to move or not move comes down to the severity of the infestation, the responsiveness of your landlord or property manager, and the effectiveness of extermination measures.
Take the time to weigh these factors and determine what is best for your well-being and comfort.
Preparing to Move
I. Packing Tips
When preparing to move, it’s essential to pack your belongings carefully to avoid bringing roaches with you. Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently and securely:
- Use plastic bins with lids instead of cardboard boxes, as roaches can easily hide in the crevices of cardboard.
- Launder your clothes, linens, and fabrics before packing, and store them in sealed plastic bags.
- Thoroughly wash kitchen items like pots, pans, dishes, and utensils to eliminate roach residue or eggs.
- Shake out shoes, electronics, and any small household items to remove any hidden roaches.
- Inspect furniture, especially those with fabric, for signs of roaches, and vacuum thoroughly before packing.
- Vacuum your belongings as you pack them and use a tight sealing to prevent roach infestation.
II. Inspecting Your New Home
Before moving into your new home, it’s crucial to inspect for any signs of roach infestation. Here are some steps to take to ensure your new home is roach-free:
- Check for evidence of roaches, such as droppings, egg cases, or dead insects, in cabinets, behind appliances, and in dark corners.
- Inspect the kitchen and bathroom areas, as these are the most common places for roaches to reside due to the presence of water and food sources.
- Request your landlord or real estate agent to have a professional pest control treatment performed before your move-in date, if possible.
- Keep an eye out for any potential entry points, such as cracks, crevices, or gaps, and make necessary repairs to seal them off.
- Place roach traps or sticky monitors around the new home to detect any potential infestation early on.
By following these packing tips and thoroughly inspecting your new home, you can reduce the risk of moving with roaches.
Controlling Roaches in Your New Home
Proactive Measures
In order to reduce the likelihood of a cockroach infestation in your new home, take these proactive measures:
- Be cockroach aware: Familiarize yourself with the most common cockroach hiding places, such as kitchen cabinets, under sinks, and inside appliances.
- Seal gaps: Use caulk or another sealant to close gaps through which roaches could enter your house.
- Wash your clothes and linens: Before moving, thoroughly wash all clothing and bedding to eliminate any potential hitchhikers.
- Clean appliances: Deep clean all appliances, especially in the kitchen, where food debris can attract roaches.
- Inspect furniture: Carefully examine all furniture and electronics for signs of roaches before moving them into your new home.
Addressing an Infestation
Should you encounter a cockroach infestation in your new home, take the following steps:
- Call a professional: Contact a reputable pest control company (such as Orkin) to assess the infestation and implement the proper treatment.
- Treat at-risk areas: Apply recommended insecticides and other treatments in areas where roaches might enter or where they have been seen.
- Maintain cleanliness: Keep your home clean and clutter-free to minimize hiding places and food sources for roaches.
- Vacuum regularly: This will help eliminate roach eggs and any hiding insects.
- Monitor: Keep an eye on your indoor plants, pet food, and garden supplies, as these can provide additional entry points or sustenance for roaches.
By following these proactive measures and addressing any potential infestations, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for you and your baby in your new home.
Conclusion
In summary, deciding whether to move out because of roaches depends on the severity of the infestation and your ability to control it.
If you have tried multiple solutions and the roach problem remains persistent, moving out might be the best option for your health and sanity.
However, before making any decisions, it’s crucial to take proper steps to minimize the chances of bringing the infestation with you to your new location. These steps include:
- Inspecting your belongings as you pack, looking for signs of a cockroach infestation, such as egg casings and droppings
- Thoroughly cleaning items, particularly kitchen appliances, cabinets, nooks, crannies, and electronics for signs of cockroach activity
- Seeking professional help from an exterminator for both your current and future residences
By following these measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of transporting roaches when moving.
Remember that maintaining cleanliness and proper preventive measures will be essential in your new home to prevent future infestations. Take this as an opportunity to review and improve your habits to ensure a roach-free living space.
