As temperatures drop across London, many pests retreat or go dormant, such as wasps, mosquitoes and ants, but not cockroaches. While they’re active all year round, the colder months drive them indoors in search of warmth, food, and moisture.
At Obsidian Environmental Services, our BPCA-qualified pest control specialists have over 65 years of combined pest control experience dealing with winter cockroach infestations in homes, restaurants, hotels, and large commercial buildings.
Cockroaches are remarkably resilient insects. Their flat, oval bodies, long whip-like antennae, and rapid, jerky movements allow them to squeeze into the smallest crevices and move quickly when disturbed.
The German Cockroach (Blattella germanica), light yellow-brown and around 12-15mm long, and the Oriental Cockroach (Blatta orientalis), darker and larger at 20-30mm, are the two most common species we encounter across London.
Why Cockroaches Favour Warm Indoor Spaces in Winter
When the cold sets in, cockroaches rarely travel outside. Instead, they seek the constant warmth and humidity found in:
- Boiler rooms and heating ducts of centrally heated buildings
- Behind and beneath fridges, cookers, dishwashers, and washing machines
- Inside restaurant and hotel kitchens, hospital wards, and food storage areas
- Around bathroom pipework, stoves, and hot-water tanks
Cockroaches depend heavily on water to survive. Even in winter, they remain active if they can access warmth and moisture. This makes kitchens, laundries, and mechanical rooms their prime breeding and feeding grounds.
For property owners, the problem often worsens unnoticed, as cockroaches prefer dark, hidden spaces where they can multiply rapidly.
The Health Risks of Cockroach Infestations
Cockroaches are known carriers of dangerous diseases, including dysentery, gastroenteritis, typhoid, and poliomyelitis. Their droppings, shed skins, and saliva can trigger allergic reactions and asthma, particularly in children and those with respiratory issues.
Because they feed on virtually anything, from leftover food and grease to waste and faecal matter, their presence can quickly contaminate food preparation areas and storage zones.
For businesses, especially those in the hospitality, healthcare, or food service sectors, this can lead to hygiene breaches, reputational damage, and even enforcement action from environmental health authorities.
For more on professional pest control standards, see the British Pest Control Association’s Cockroach Guidance.
Common Signs of a Cockroach Infestation
Our technicians often identify infestations by the following tell-tale signs:
- Live sightings – particularly around sinks, fridges, or boilers at night
- Droppings – small black specks or cylindrical pellets near food sources or crevices
- Shed skins – evidence of nymph development as they mature
- Musty odour – a strong, unpleasant smell caused by large populations
- Smear marks – dark trails along skirting boards and wall junctions
- Egg cases (oothecae) – each German Cockroach ootheca can contain 30-48 nymphs
Because of their rapid reproductive rate, early intervention is crucial. A small infestation can escalate into a major one within months, and in some cases, weeks, especially when the conditions are suitable.
Obsidian’s Proven Winter Cockroach Removal Solutions
At Obsidian Environmental Services, our expert team deploys a proven multi-stage approach to eradicate cockroaches safely, discreetly, and effectively:
- Comprehensive Inspection – Identifying harbourage points and moisture sources.
- Targeted Gel Baiting – We use advanced gel formulations that act as a food source, ensuring maximum effectiveness.
- Residual Sprays and Dusts – Applied precisely to high-traffic zones and structural voids.
- Environmental Management Advice – Guidance on cleaning, sealing entry points, and reducing food/water availability.
- Follow-up Visits – Ensuring Complete Eradication and Long-term Control.
While gel baits have existed for years, few pest control companies have invested the hands-on research and field testing that Obsidian has. Our refined approach, backed by our wealth of expertise, delivers proven, long-lasting results for residential and commercial properties alike.
Protect Your Property From Cockroaches This Winter
If you’ve noticed even one cockroach, it’s essential to act quickly. Cockroaches breed rapidly, and delaying treatment often means the problem spreads to adjoining flats, storage rooms, or food areas.
Our BPCA-qualified pest technicians are trusted across London for providing discreet, expert pest control solutions with guaranteed results.
Contact Obsidian Environmental today to arrange a professional inspection and take the first step toward a cockroach-free environment this winter.
Or book your inspection online.
