- Home
- Pest library
- Cockroaches
Insects · Pest library
Cockroach control in Toronto, the GTA and cottage country
German cockroaches are the most common indoor cockroach in Ontario homes, condos and apartments. They breed quickly and hide in warm, tight spaces near food and water.
- Free quote
- Licensed in Ontario
- Free return visits
How to identify cockroaches
Most indoor cockroach problems come from one of these three.
German cockroaches
Small and light brown with two dark stripes. The most common indoor species.
Brown-banded cockroaches
Similar size, with light bands across the body. They prefer warm, dry rooms away from the kitchen.
Oriental cockroaches
Larger, shiny and dark brown to black. They prefer damp basements and drains.
Signs to look for
- Small dark droppings like ground pepper in drawers and on shelves
- A musty, oily smell in heavier infestations
- Brown egg cases and shed skins behind appliances
- Cockroaches scattering when you turn on a light at night
Why cockroaches come inside
What draws them in
Cockroaches arrive in grocery bags, boxes and used appliances, and travel through shared walls and plumbing in multi-unit buildings.
Health and home risks
Cockroach droppings and shed skins are known allergens and asthma triggers, especially for children. Cockroaches can also spread germs to food and surfaces.
How we handle cockroaches
Find where they hide
Inspection of kitchens, bathrooms and appliance areas.
Target cracks and crevices
Gel baits and targeted treatments where cockroaches live.
Break the breeding cycle
Growth regulators that stop young cockroaches from maturing.
Follow up
Return visits until activity stops, then seasonal monitoring.
Prevention tips
- Don't leave dishes, crumbs or pet food out overnight
- Fix dripping taps and wipe up water around sinks
- Recycle cardboard quickly, since cockroaches hide in it
- Seal gaps around pipes under sinks
- Keep garbage in a lidded bin
- Check second-hand appliances before bringing them in
Common questions about cockroaches
Does seeing a cockroach mean my home is dirty?
No. Clean homes get cockroaches too, especially in multi-unit buildings. Clutter and moisture just make them harder to clear.
How long does it take to get rid of them?
Most homes see a big drop within a few weeks. Heavier infestations may need several visits.
Related pests
Reviewed by PestDepart's licensed exterminators. For health concerns, including bites or stings, contact your doctor or local public health unit.