Pests · Can wait
I keep seeing cockroaches in my kitchen. What can I do?
General guidance for homes in Singapore. In a condo or other strata building, common property is for the management office; in an HDB flat, your Town Council.
Take away their food, water and hiding places first. If they keep coming back, a licensed pest control operator can treat the source.
Check first
- Where do you see them most: sink, bin, cabinets or floor trap?
- Is there food, pet food or rubbish left out overnight?
- Are there gaps around pipes, cabinets or the floor trap?
What you can try
- Store food in sealed containers and clear crumbs and spills each night.
- Take rubbish out daily and keep the bin lidded.
- Fix dripping taps and dry the sink area before bed.
- Keep the floor trap cover in place.
- If you use store-bought baits, follow the label and keep them away from children and pets.
When to stop and get help
- You see them in several units or common areas.
- You have a large infestation in the day, which can point to a bigger nest nearby.
- Anyone in the home reacts to sprays.
Who to contact
- Management office — If you see them in bin chutes, corridors or other units.
- Your landlord or agent — If you rent. Tell them before booking any repair, and check your tenancy agreement for who arranges it.
Find your building's management office
Every building in the estate.sg directory lists its management office's number and address.
When to hire someone
If they remain after a couple of weeks of good housekeeping. Treatment works best when the nest is found.
Ask before you book:
- Is your company registered with NEA as a Vector Control Operator, and is the technician licensed?
- What is the total price, including call-out, parts and any after-hours charge?
- Which chemicals will you use, and do we need to leave the home?
- Is a follow-up visit included?