Latest News from BPCA

29 April 2022

Check for these four signs of cockroaches this spring

PESTAWARE

Experts at a national trade body are urging householders planning a spring clean to look out for signs that cockroaches have entered their home.

pestaware four signs of cockroaches

British Pest Control Association (BPCA), is encouraging houseproud residents to check for cockroaches when cleaning around stoves, sinks and heating ducts this spring.

The trade body is also signposting to its online guide with video for advice on preventing the insect intruders.
Cockroaches can act as vectors of disease and are capable of carrying the organisms which cause food poisoning in humans and many other bacteria.

They will contaminate utensils and preparation surfaces as they forage and may taint food with an obnoxious smell.
Dee Ward-Thompson, BPCA Head of Technical, said: “Cockroaches will feed on almost anything, including refuse, faecal matter and food for 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 around the heating ducts, pipes, stoves, and sinks, especially in humid areas, and will often remain hidden during the day.”

As cockroaches are nocturnal, BPCA recommends looking out for these four tell-tale signs that cockroaches may be present:

  • Droppings
  • Egg (ootheca) cases
  • Obnoxious odour (large infestations)
  • Sighting of the insect.

Dealing with a cockroach infestation is no easy task, so BPCA recommends taking steps to deter the insects, including cleaning all surfaces thoroughly, keeping bins covered and emptied regularly and sealing gaps around doors, windows and utility lines.

Dee added: “Control of cockroaches is seldom easy because of the difficulty of getting to the insect.

“For any cockroach infestation, we would always recommend contacting a professional pest control company, preferably a member of the BPCA.

“They are trained in cockroach control and will have access to a range of professional use products which are not available to the public.”

For more advice about proofing your home or business against cockroaches, the new online guide is available at: bpca.org.uk/cockroach

BPCA members are trained, qualified and regularly assessed to the British Standard in Pest Management BS EN 16636.

To find a BPCA member near you visit: bpca.org.uk/find.

Source: Online

Highlights View all news

18 August 2025

Latest news

HSE launches consultation on anticoagulant rodenticides

The HSE is holding a public consultation on renewing anticoagulant rodenticides under the GB Biocidal Products Regulation

Read more

11 June 2025

Latest news

Spending Review 2025: Key announcements at a glance and how it might affect pest management

BPCA has been closely monitoring the announcements, and although pest management wasn’t directly addressed, several changes may have implications for the sector.

Read more

06 June 2025

Latest news

Results are in: meet your new BPCA Board representatives 2025

Six new Member Directors have been chosen to help lead the Association and represent the interests of BPCA members at the highest level.

Read more
Latest View all news

18 August 2025

Latest news

VIDEO: Field work in pest control

Clara Guisan from Pest Solutions shares hands-on research from the field, revealing how data collected on live jobs can transform the way we tackle pests.

Read more

18 August 2025

Latest news

VIDEO: How to Use Your Age to Your Advantage in Pest Control

Julia Pittman, Head of Customer Strategy at Beaver Pest Control and Chair of BPCA’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, shares how young professionals can stand out, grow their skills, and shape the future of the industry.

Read more

18 August 2025

Latest news

VIDEO: Working in Collaboration with Your EHO

Learn how pest controllers and Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) can work together for faster problem solving, smoother enforcement and better outcomes for clients.

Read more