The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) has warned that heating ducts and pipes can be prime spots for cockroaches as the heating goes on in the autumn.
The association, which has issued a guide with advice on preventing the humidity-loving insects getting into homes and businesses, said that cockroach control is a difficult task, so preventative measures are an important step in keeping premises pest-free.
Dee Ward-Thompson, BPCA technical manager, said: “The two most common species of cockroaches are the German and Oriental cockroach. They will both feed on almost anything, including refuse, faecal matter and food for human consumption. They also require access to water and will be generally found in inaccessible harbourages, close to water and food.
“Cockroaches are rarely able to survive out of doors in the British climate but thrive in areas where the temperature is more forgiving. For Oriental cockroaches, this may be around the heating ducts and boiler rooms of large centrally heated buildings such as hospitals, bakeries, hotels and restaurant kitchens, and blocks of flats. When Oriental cockroaches are present, they can sometimes be tracked back to the sewers.”
Ms Ward-Thompson added: “German cockroaches are smaller than the Oriental cockroach and they cluster around pipes, stoves, the back of refrigerator motors and sinks, especially in humid areas, and will often remain hidden during the day.”