Why Do I Have Cockroaches If My House Is Clean?

Even the cleanest homes can experience a cockroach infestation. If you’re noticing roaches in your home despite keeping everything spotless, you’re not alone. Cockroaches are often associated with dirt, but their presence isn’t always a sign of an unclean home. In Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and across Hampton Roads, sightings often increase in the fall, especially in November, when these pests seek warmth and shelter.

In this article, we’ll explain why cockroaches can appear in tidy homes, what attracts them, and how homeowners can prevent infestations.

What This Blog Will Cover

• Why clean homes still get cockroaches
• Seasonal roach trends in Hampton Roads 
• What attracts cockroaches
• Steps to take if you find roaches
• Prevention tips to keep cockroaches out 
• Answers to common questions about cockroach behavior, species, and control options

Common Cockroach Myths

It’s a common misconception that cockroaches only invade dirty homes. While clutter and food residue can attract these pests, roaches are highly adaptable. Even the smallest crumbs or hidden spills can provide enough sustenance.

American cockroaches, German cockroaches, and other species are resourceful, enabling them to survive in clean, well-maintained homes. Understanding their behavior is the first step in keeping your home pest-free.

Seasonal Cockroach Activity in Hampton Roads

In Virginia, cockroach activity often peaks in November. Cooler temperatures push them indoors in search of warmth. Outdoor food sources, such as fallen leaves and garden debris, become scarcer, making homes an attractive refuge.

In Hampton Roads, it’s common to see more roaches as the fall season progresses. While you might not notice them immediately, their activity tends to increase in crawlspaces, basements, kitchens, and other warm, humid areas.

What Attracts Cockroaches to Your Home

Cockroaches are drawn to homes for several key reasons, including:

Easy Access to Warmth & Shelter

Roaches can enter through cracks in the foundation, gaps around pipes, crawlspaces, and other small openings on the exterior. Once inside, they seek dark, undisturbed areas where they can hide and reproduce.

Food Sources

Even in a clean home, traces of food can attract cockroaches. Crumbs, spills, pet food, and improperly sealed pantry items are all potential targets.

Water Availability

Cockroaches can survive without food for a month, but can only survive for one week without water. Leaky pipes, condensation, pet bowls, and standing water are all attractive to these pests.

Accidental Transport

Sometimes, roaches arrive by accident. They can hitch a ride in grocery bags, boxes, or items stored in sheds and garages. Even a single roach can start an infestation if unnoticed.

What to Do If You Find Cockroaches

Finding a cockroach doesn’t mean your home is dirty, so there’s no need to panic. Here’s what to do:

• Contact a trusted local pest control company, such as Getem Services.
• Schedule a professional inspection to identify the source of the infestation.
• Consider year-round pest control options to prevent future problems.

Our locally owned and family-operated pest control team has been serving Hampton Roads since 1922, offering comprehensive pest control services that protect homes from a wide range of pests, including cockroaches, spiders, rodents, and more.

How to Prevent Cockroach Problems

Cockroaches aren’t only a fall problem; they can be active year-round in Virginia. To reduce the risk of infestations:

• Seal entry points: Fill cracks, gaps, and holes in walls, foundations, and around pipes.
• Reduce moisture: Fix leaks, improve ventilation, and keep the crawl space dry.
• Store food properly: Use airtight containers and clean up spills immediately.
• Maintain cleanliness: Don’t forget under appliances, cabinets, and behind furniture.
• Trim landscaping: Keep tree branches and bushes away from your home’s exterior.

FAQ: Cockroaches in Clean Homes

Q: Can clean homes get cockroaches?
Yes. Cockroaches are attracted to warmth, water, and food traces, not dirt. Even spotless homes can provide these essentials.

Q: Are American cockroaches common in Hampton Roads?
Yes. They are one of the most frequently encountered species in Chesapeake, Norfolk, and the surrounding areas.

Q: Can I get rid of roaches on my own?
DIY treatments often fail because roaches are highly adaptive. Professional pest control is more effective for long-term results.

This blog was originally published on November 15, 2023; it has been updated to include new information.