How much does pest control cost?

Pricing depends on the type of pest, the size of the property, the level of activity, and the required treatment scope. We provide a clear quote before starting any work.

Is treatment safe around children and pets?

We assess the environment before treating and explain any necessary precautions. Depending on the treatment, we may ask that children and pets are kept away from the treated areas until they are completely dry and ventilated.

Do you treat termites?

Please ask us about our current termite inspection and treatment availability when you call, as these services require specific assessment and planning.

Why did the cockroaches come back after I sprayed?

A surface spray may kill cockroaches that contact it, but it does not always reach harbourage points inside wall voids, behind appliances, or under cabinetry. If food, water, and entry points remain, cockroaches can return.

What is a harbourage point?

A harbourage point is a sheltered area where cockroaches hide and breed during the day. Common locations include behind appliances, inside cupboards, under sinks, and in wall voids near warm, humid areas.

Can cockroaches spread between apartments?

Yes. In shared-wall buildings, cockroaches can move through gaps in walls, pipes, and shared ducting. Treating one unit without addressing neighbouring activity may lead to repeat problems.

What can I do to help prevent them returning?

Keep kitchen surfaces clean, store food in sealed containers, fix moisture leaks, and seal gaps around pipes and skirting boards. Professional treatment combined with these steps gives the best chance of reducing repeat activity.

Why Kitchen Cockroaches Return After Spraying

Pest control technician inspecting under a kitchen sink cabinet for cockroach harbourage

A quick spray can reduce visible cockroach activity, but it rarely addresses the underlying reason cockroaches are in your kitchen. Understanding harbourage points, food access, and entry routes helps explain why repeat activity is common after surface-only treatment.

Published 22 August 2026

Signs to look for

Cockroaches seen again within weeks of a spray treatment
Droppings or smear marks in the same kitchen corners or behind appliances
Egg cases (oothecae) found in cupboards or under the sink
A lingering oily or musty odour in enclosed kitchen areas
Activity returning in warm, humid weather

What you can check safely

Check behind and under the fridge, dishwasher, and microwave for droppings or egg cases
Inspect sink cupboards and pipe entries for gaps or moisture
Look for cracks or gaps around skirting boards and behind appliances
Check food storage areas for unsealed packaging

What to avoid

Do not apply additional insecticide over recently treated surfaces without professional advice
Do not assume a single spray will resolve a persistent problem
Do not leave food, crumbs, or grease on benches overnight
Do not ignore moisture issues under the sink or behind appliances

When to seek professional inspection

Cockroaches return within weeks of a previous treatment
You find egg cases or nymphs (small, wingless cockroaches)
Activity is seen in multiple rooms, not just the kitchen
You live in a shared building where activity may spread between units

Melbourne context

German cockroaches are the most common kitchen cockroach in Melbourne homes and commercial kitchens. They thrive in warm, humid areas near food and water. Shared-wall buildings such as apartments and terrace houses can allow cockroaches to move between units, which is why building-wide cooperation may be needed.

Related services

Cockroach Control

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions

Need help with a pest problem?

Tell us what you saw, heard, or found. We will help confirm the pest and the right inspection or treatment for your property.

Call 0479 128 006 View All Resources