§ 01
Which cockroaches are found in the UK
The two most common in homes and businesses are the German cockroach, which is small (about 1.5 cm), light brown and often found in kitchens and flats, and the Oriental cockroach, which is larger (about 2.5 cm), dark brown to black and prefers cooler, damp areas such as basements and drains.
§ 02
The signs
- Small dark droppings like ground pepper or coffee grounds along shelves and in cupboard corners.
- Brown, purse-shaped egg cases.
- Shed skins near hiding places.
- A musty, oily smell in heavier infestations.
- Cockroaches running for cover when a light is switched on at night.
§ 03
Where they hide
Behind and under fridges, cookers and dishwashers, around boilers and hot water pipes, inside kitchen units, under sinks and in cracks in walls and tiles. In flats they can travel between units along service ducts and pipe runs.
§ 04
Why they matter
Cockroaches feed on almost anything and move between drains, bins and food areas, carrying bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli. Their droppings and shed skins can also trigger allergies and asthma. For food businesses, cockroaches are a serious food hygiene issue that environmental health officers take very seriously.
§ 05
What you can do
- Clean behind and under appliances and remove grease build-up.
- Keep food sealed and don't leave dirty dishes or pet food out overnight.
- Fix dripping taps and leaks, as cockroaches need water.
- Avoid shop-bought sprays, which can scatter cockroaches further and make treatment harder.
