What To Do If You Spot Roaches In Your New Apartment

It's a situation no one wants to find themselves in: You've just moved into a new apartment, but you didn't realize you'd be sharing it with a bunch of cockroaches. (Unfortunately, even if you only see one, it's often a sign that you have an infestation.) While you might be inclined to panic, it's best to stay calm and follow a few simple steps — starting by snapping pictures of the creepy critters. Having photo evidence can be useful when you flag the issue with your landlord or property manager (if you rent), or your pest control professional (if you own).

Aside from taking photos, you should also write down the date and time that you spotted the roaches. It's good to include details about where you found them in your apartment as well. When you've compiled all of that information, pass it along to your landlord, property manager, or pest control company as soon as possible. Be sure to send the message (and any follow-ups) in writing, so you have a paper trail in case it gets ignored.

Ideally, a professional should take over from there. But there are a few things you can do while you're waiting for treatment. For example, put out glue traps to figure out where the roaches are lurking within your home. Some of the most common hiding spots are under sinks, near stoves and refrigerators, and inside lower cupboards. You'll also want to cut off access to food and water sources in your home. That means storing dry goods in sealed containers, cleaning up crumbs and spills, and fixing any leaky faucets or sinks.

While you might be tempted to use a bug bomb or pesticide spray to get rid of cockroaches forever, that's actually not the best idea. Those types of products aren't effective against cockroaches (and they can be bad for your health). Instead, opt for professional treatment. Depending on where you live, your landlord may be legally required to pay for pest control if you have an infestation.

When the pest control company comes to your apartment, ask what you can do to prevent the roaches from returning. They should give detailed advice based on your specific situation, but often, it will include things like taking out the trash regularly, wiping down your counters, and keeping your sinks clean, dry, and free of dirty dishes. Reducing clutter — especially in closets, cabinets, and corners — can also help ward off roaches, since it gives them fewer places to hide.

It's also helpful to learn about the common warning signs of a cockroach infestation, so you can quickly identify future issues (even if you don't see the roaches themselves). Droppings on the floor, smear marks on the walls, and musty odors can indicate that these pests are somewhere within your apartment. Try to communicate with your fellow building residents, too — especially if you share a wall. If a neighbor is dealing with a roach infestation, they could end up in your unit as well.