How to identify cockroaches
- German cockroach: ½ inch, light brown, two dark stripes behind the head — indoor kitchens and bathrooms
- Turkestan cockroach: 1 inch, reddish-brown, lives outside in irrigation boxes and block walls
- Egg cases (oothecae) — small brown capsules under cabinets and appliances
Signs of an infestation
- Live insects scattering when lights turn on at night
- Musty or oily odor near infestations
- Pepper-like droppings inside drawers and along baseboards
- Shed exoskeletons behind the refrigerator or dishwasher
Why cockroaches thrive in the SFV
Apartment density in North Hollywood, Van Nuys, and Panorama City means German cockroaches can travel through shared walls and plumbing chases. Outdoor Turkestan cockroaches breed year-round in irrigation boxes, planters, and block walls across the Valley.
The Evictr treatment process
- 1Identification — German vs. Turkestan determines the entire treatment plan
- 2Targeted gel bait in harborage points (cabinet hinges, appliance motors, plumbing penetrations)
- 3Insect growth regulator (IGR) to break the reproductive cycle
- 4Exterior perimeter treatment for Turkestan populations
- 5Follow-up visits at 2 and 6 weeks to confirm elimination
Prevention tips
- Fix leaks immediately — roaches need water more than food
- Store food and pet food in sealed containers
- Take trash out nightly during active treatment
- Caulk plumbing penetrations under sinks
- Move recycling bins and planters away from exterior doors
Frequently asked questions
Are over-the-counter foggers (bug bombs) effective?
No — they make professional treatment harder. Foggers scatter cockroaches deeper into walls and rarely reach the harborage areas where the population actually lives. Gel baits applied by a technician are far more effective.
I saw one cockroach. Do I have an infestation?
If it was a German cockroach in your kitchen, almost certainly yes — for every one you see, 50–200 are hidden. If it was a Turkestan cockroach in the garage in summer, it may be a single intruder; exclusion and a perimeter spray usually solve it.
How long until cockroaches are gone?
German cockroach populations are typically eliminated in 4–6 weeks with proper bait placement and IGR. Turkestan populations on the exterior often drop dramatically after the first treatment.
Is the treatment safe for pets and kids?
Yes. We use targeted gel baits placed in cracks and crevices out of reach, not broadcast sprays. You don't need to leave the home during treatment.
Cockroaches control across the San Fernando Valley
Evictr provides cockroaches treatment to homes and small commercial properties across the SFV, including: