Professional cockroach control combines a targeted gel bait in kitchens and wet areas, an insect growth regulator to break the breeding cycle, and a perimeter or crack-and-crevice spray where needed. Xpest identifies the species first, because German and Australian cockroaches need different treatment plans.
German or Australian cockroach? It changes the treatment
German cockroaches are small (about 1.5 cm), light brown, and live indoors, usually in kitchens, behind appliances and in cupboard hinges. They breed fast, and supermarket sprays tend to scatter them rather than solve the problem. They are the most common cause of persistent infestations in apartments and food businesses.
Australian and American cockroaches are larger (3–4 cm), reddish-brown, and usually come in from outside: from drains, garden mulch, roof voids and sub-floors, especially on warm, humid nights. Treatment focuses on the perimeter, entry points and outdoor harbourage.
How our cockroach treatment works
- Inspect and identify. We find where they are hiding and breeding, and confirm the species.
- Targeted treatment. Gel baits are placed in cracks, hinges and appliance gaps, an insect growth regulator stops young cockroaches maturing, and the perimeter is treated where outdoor cockroaches are the issue.
- Prevention plan. You get simple steps to cut food, water and hiding spots so the treatment keeps working.
It is normal to see more cockroaches for a few days after treatment as they are flushed out. Heavy German cockroach infestations may need a follow-up visit, and your technician will tell you up front if that is likely.
Homes, apartments and food businesses
We treat family homes, units, rentals, strata buildings, cafes, restaurants and commercial kitchens. In apartment buildings, cockroaches move through shared walls and service ducts, so we will tell you if neighbouring units or common areas need to be treated for a lasting result.
Is it safe for kids and pets?
Xpest uses products registered with the APVMA (the national regulator), applied to label directions by a licensed technician. Before we start, we tell you how to prepare, which areas to keep children and pets away from, how long to wait before re-entry, and what to do with pet bowls, fish tanks and bedding.
What does it cost?
General pest treatments start from $199 one-off or $15 a month on a subscription (see the pricing guide). Your exact price depends on the property size, the pest and how established the activity is, and it is confirmed before any work starts.
Cockroach Control by region
In Sydney, NSW
Sydney’s apartment blocks, terraces and busy food precincts make German cockroaches a constant problem. See cockroach control in Sydney for apartment and strata advice.
On the Sunshine Coast, QLD
On the Sunshine Coast, warm, humid nights bring Australian and American cockroaches in from gardens and drains, especially in summer. Perimeter treatments and sealing entry points matter most here.
Common questions
How long until the cockroaches are gone?
Most homes see a big drop within one to two weeks as the baits work through the colony. Heavy German cockroach infestations can take longer and may need a follow-up treatment.
Do I need to leave the house?
For most gel-bait treatments, no. If a spray is used, your technician will tell you how long to stay out of treated rooms and when it is safe for kids and pets to return.
Why do I see more cockroaches after treatment?
The treatment flushes them out of their hiding spots. Seeing more for a few days is normal and means the treatment is working. Avoid spraying over the baits yourself.
How do I stop cockroaches coming back?
Store food sealed, wipe benches at night, fix leaking taps, keep bins closed and seal gaps around pipes. Your technician will point out the specific risks in your home.