Hire a professional for German cockroach infestations

What to Do

Call a licensed pest control professional when you see cockroaches during daytime (indicates severe overcrowding), when DIY baiting has failed after 30 days, when you live in a multi-unit building with shared infestations, or when hundreds of roaches are visible.

Why It Works

German cockroaches are the most difficult household pest to eliminate. Professionals have access to commercial-grade products, application equipment for wall voids and hidden spaces, and experience managing resistance and bait aversion. In multi-unit housing, adjacent infested units continually reinforce the problem — only coordinated professional treatment across multiple units can break the cycle.

Tips

• Cost: $100-400 for a one-time treatment; $300-600 for a German cockroach elimination program
• Quarterly professional service runs $100-300 per visit
• Ask about IPM approach, specific products used, and whether they offer lower-toxicity options
• Verify the company's license with your state's pesticide regulatory agency