Two services, one page
Cockroaches and termites in Miami: what we look for
The signs of each one, so you know what to tell us when you call.
Cockroaches
How we treat themLarge cockroaches at night near sinks and drains
Small ones behind cabinets and appliances
Cockroaches in the garage or yard after heavy rain
Termites
How we checkLoose wings on a windowsill or under the porch light
Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
Mud tubes on a wall or at the base of the house
Cockroaches
Cockroaches: how they get in
The large ones many people here call palmetto bugs live outside and come in through drains, gaps under doors and pipe openings, especially when it rains. The small ones stay inside, near food and water. Each is treated differently, so we identify it first.
We check drains, garage, attic and under the sinks
We treat the areas of activity, not the whole house
We seal and cut moisture so they don't return as easily
Termites
Termites: check before treating
Miami has both drywood and subterranean termites, and each is treated differently. Yoel checks frames, eaves, the attic and the base of the walls with a flashlight, and writes up what he found and where. A report describes what was seen that day and is not a guarantee.
A flashlight inspection and a record of what was found
A spot treatment or a whole-structure treatment, depending on the type
Follow-up checks agreed in writing
A visit
What we do, in this order
- 01
Step 1: Inspect
Drains, garage, attic, under the sinks, door and window frames.
- 02
Step 2: Identify
Which kind of cockroach or termite it is, because the treatment changes.
- 03
Step 3: Treat
Licensed applicators, following the label, in the areas where there is activity.
- 04
Step 4: Prevent
Seal gaps and pipes, check gutters and drains, cut the moisture.
Before, during and after
Before the visit
Clear the space under the sink
Put pet food away
Note where and when you saw them
During
We show you what we found
We tell you what we'll treat
You decide before we start
After
Keep kids and pets out of the areas we name
Don't wipe the outside edge for a few days
Call us if they return between visits
The year in Miami
When each one tends to show up
A general guide: every year and every home is different.
- Jan to Mar
January to March
Less rain. A good time to check wood, frames and attics before the swarms.
- Apr to Jun
April to June
Winged termites, often at dusk. Look at the porch light and the window frames.
- Jul to Oct
July to October
Rain and heat: large cockroaches look for dry shelter and mosquitoes follow the water.
- Nov and Dec
November and December
Calmer. A good time to seal gaps and go over the year's report.
Questions about cockroaches and termites
Is a termite report a guarantee?
No. A report describes what was seen on the day of the inspection. If a treatment includes a follow-up service, its terms are in writing.
Do I have to leave the house?
For cockroaches, usually not. If a termite treatment needs you out of the house, we tell you beforehand and for how long.
How long until the cockroaches are gone?
It varies. Many homes notice fewer within days or weeks, but it depends on moisture and food. Your report tells you what to expect.
Cockroaches or wings on the window?
Tell us what you saw and where. We'll tell you when Yoel can come.