Cockroaches
Fast, thorough cockroach control for Montreal homes and businesses
Home › Pests We Treat › Cockroaches
Identification Snapshot
| Colour | Light brown to reddish-brown |
| Size | 1.3–4 cm depending on species and age |
| Description | Flattened oval body, long antennae, six spiny legs, some species can fly short distances |
How to Identify Cockroaches
The German cockroach (Blattella germanica) is by far the most common species found in Montreal homes, apartments, and restaurants. It’s small — usually 1.3–1.6 cm — light brown with two dark parallel stripes running down behind its head. Larger species like the American cockroach (reddish-brown, up to 4 cm) show up occasionally, especially in basements or near plumbing. All cockroaches share a flattened, oval body that lets them squeeze into extremely tight cracks and crevices.
Key Signs of a Cockroach Infestation
- Droppings: small, dark specks resembling ground coffee or black pepper, often found in cupboards, drawers, and along cracks
- Egg cases (oothecae): small, brown, capsule-shaped cases, sometimes visible in hidden corners or behind appliances
- A strong, musty odour: a distinctive oily smell that becomes more noticeable as an infestation grows
- Shed skins: cockroaches molt several times as they grow, leaving translucent, roach-shaped skins behind
- Live sightings at night: cockroaches are nocturnal and light-averse, so spotting one during the day often means the population is already large
- Smear marks: dark, irregular marks on surfaces where cockroaches travel and feed
What to Do If You Find Cockroaches
Do
- Clean up food debris, spills, and dirty dishes promptly
- Store food — including pet food — in sealed containers
- Check behind and under large appliances
- Fix leaky pipes and faucets; cockroaches are drawn to moisture
- Call a licensed professional as soon as you notice signs
Don’t
- Rely on store-bought sprays alone — they often scatter roaches into new hiding spots
- Ignore a single daytime sighting
- Stack clutter like cardboard boxes and paper bags
- Assume a clean home is roach-proof
How to Prevent Cockroaches
- Seal cracks and gaps around baseboards, pipes, and cabinets
- Keep kitchens and dining areas free of crumbs and grease buildup
- Fix leaks and reduce excess moisture in bathrooms, basements, and under sinks
- Store cardboard and paper for recycling away from living areas
- Inspect grocery bags, used furniture, and boxes before bringing them inside
- In multi-unit buildings, coordinate with neighbours and building management
Habitat, Diet & Behaviour
Cockroaches favour warm, humid environments with easy access to food and water — kitchens, bathrooms, and areas around plumbing are prime real estate. They’re omnivorous scavengers, eating almost anything organic, including food scraps, grease, paper, and even soap. German cockroaches can go from egg to reproducing adult in about six weeks, and a single female can be responsible for thousands of offspring within a year, which is why small sightings should never be ignored.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I have cockroaches if my home is clean?
Cockroaches hitchhike in on grocery bags, boxes, used furniture, and through shared walls or plumbing in apartment buildings. Cleanliness reduces food sources but doesn’t fully prevent entry.
Are cockroaches dangerous?
Yes. Cockroaches can spread bacteria and pathogens, and their droppings and shed skins are a known trigger for allergies and asthma, especially in children.
How fast do cockroach infestations grow?
Very fast. German cockroaches reach reproductive maturity in about six weeks, and each egg case can contain 30–40 eggs.
Can I get rid of cockroaches myself?
Store-bought products can reduce visible roaches temporarily but rarely eliminate the full colony. Professional treatment targets the hidden population, not just what you can see.
How does Optima treat cockroach infestations?
We start with an inspection to identify species and hot spots, then apply targeted treatment methods suited to kitchens, bathrooms, and other sensitive areas.
Why Choose Optima Extermination
Fast, discreet, and reliable pest control solutions designed to eliminate problems and keep them from coming back.
Licensed Experts
Our trained and certified technicians use safe, proven methods to handle every pest problem professionally and effectively.
Safe & Effective Treatments
We use industry-approved products and techniques that are safe for your home, family, and environment.
Fair & Transparent Pricing
Clear estimates with no hidden fees — just honest pricing and reliable service you can trust.
Fast Response
We act quickly to assess and treat infestations, helping you regain control of your space without delay.
Proven Results
Our methods are designed to eliminate pests at the source and reduce the risk of future infestations.
Discreet Service
We respect your privacy with low-profile, professional service for homes, apartments, and businesses.
Client Reviews
Real feedback from Optima Extermination customers across Montreal.
“What an amazing experience with Optima Extermination! The team was professional, knowledgeable, punctual, and incredibly thorough. They took the time to explain everything clearly, answered all of our questions, and made the entire process easy and stress-free. As soon as I called for the service, they were at my door the next morning!”
— Leah D.
“Incredible service from Optima! I called on Sunday morning and by mid afternoon the technician was here to deal with my large wasp infestation. Not only did he take care of the problem, he reassured me that he would come back promptly if I needed further assistance. I highly recommend this company.”
— Dale M.
“We had a great experience with this exterminator. The service was excellent, professional, and reliable. They took the time to explain the problem, provided helpful advice, and made sure we understood the best steps to take. Highly recommended.”
— Vanessa R.
“I called about a mouse problem in my basement, and they came the very next day. Within just two days, the mice were gone! He politely explained the procedure, answered all of my questions, and was friendly and professional throughout. 10 stars!!!!”
— Mel DS.
“My neighbor had a bed bug problem. I called a few extermination companies for my condo as well. In the end, I chose Optima Extermination, and it turned out to be a great choice. The welcome was very warm, the work started right away, and the products used proved very effective. What surprised me most was how friendly and attentive Mr. Gil and his team were, during and after the work.”
— Thanh N.
Residential
Spotted a cockroach in your kitchen or bathroom? We’ll find the source and treat it thoroughly.
Commercial
Protect your restaurant, retail space, or building from cockroach activity with a professional plan.
Backed by Optima Extermination’s service guarantee — Montreal’s trusted name in pest control.