04/27/2023
The American Cockroach, also known as the "water bug," is a common roach found in dwellings, especially during the summer in NYC. Measuring around 1 1/2 inches, it is the largest and fastest-moving roach and can live for one to two years. These scavengers will eat anything, including pet food, and are good climbers. Due to increased waste in residential buildings, vent traps that have not been recently cleaned, or the combination of heat and flash rains, American Roaches are moving into areas such as drains in tubs, toilets, sinks, electrical closets, slop sinks, and pump rooms.
To reduce and address incursion, pest management technicians can proactively treat areas with baits, dusts, and monitor traps. However, proper maintenance and exclusion remain essential to prevent/control programs. Here are some measures that need to be addressed by building staff:
- Clean and clear vent pipe clean out traps at the base and ensure that all drains throughout the building get refreshed with water on a regular basis.
- Maintain clear and unobstructed sewer lines to the street to reduce buildup of roach harborage in pipes, vent lines, and sump pit areas.
- Screen all vent pipes, including rooftop vents, with weather-resistant hardware cloth as these roaches are known to climb and emerge on rooftops.
- Address any interior water or moisture issues such as cracked or misaligned pipes, leaking roofs, brick pointing, or similar issues.
- Unused drains should be regularly flushed with water to prevent access, especially in hot weather.
- Identify all unoccupied apartments and run water through all lines, including dishwashers and any associated drains.
- Cover drains with a stopper at night using rubber drain covers or metal drain screens.
The practice of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is essential during this time. It consists of several measures such as sanitation and exclusion as well as proper pesticide use to control pests, many of which have public health implications.