Cockroach clocked at 330km/h? - How to Get Rid of Them Fast

Cockroaches can sprint ~50 body lengths per second — the American cockroach has been clocked around 5.4 km/h, the human equivalent of ~330 km/h. No wonder they vanish before you hit the light switch.

Finding a cockroach in your home or workplace is never pleasant — and chances are, if you’ve seen one, there are more hiding nearby. Cockroaches are among the most common pests we treat across Ipswich, Brisbane, and the Lockyer Valley. At East West Pest, we’ll help you spot the signs early, understand the species we see locally, and remove them quickly and safely.

🪳 German Cockroaches Infesting Cabinet Door Surface

A shocking image showing dozens of German cockroaches crawling across a kitchen cabinet door. This severe infestation demonstrates how quickly these pests multiply and spread through food preparation areas, making professional pest control the only effective solution for complete eradication.

A single cockroach crawling on an exterior brick wall of a residential property. This image illustrates how cockroaches can easily move from outdoor areas into homes, seeking shelter and food — a clear sign of potential infestation risk.

Close-up view of a German Cockroach

A close-up view of a German cockroach hiding inside a kitchen cabinet — one of the most common infestation sites in residential and commercial kitchens. These pests thrive in warm, moist environments near food and water sources.

🪳 Common Cockroach Species in South East Queensland

Different species = different strategies. Here are the main offenders we encounter in homes, cafés, restaurants and commercial sites:

1) German Cockroach (Blattella germanica)

Small, light brown, incredibly fast-breeding. Loves warm, humid areas like under sinks, fridges and dishwashers. Each egg case (ootheca) typically carries 30–40 eggs, which is why populations explode in kitchens if left unchecked.

2) Brown-Banded Cockroach

Smaller and fond of dry, warm spots — inside appliances, furniture and ceiling voids. Can survive with minimal moisture, so infestations often spread beyond kitchens.

3) Australian Cockroach

Larger, reddish-brown with yellow markings. Often outdoors in gardens and patios but will move inside during heat or heavy rain.

4) American Cockroach

Big and bold. Favors drains, sewers and basements, and can travel via pipework or cracks — plus it’s exceptionally fast.

5) Oriental Cockroach

Dark brown to black; prefers cool, damp places like bathrooms, drains and subfloors. Slower moving but hardy — usually needs professional treatment.

Why rapid control matters: German cockroaches are the hardest household pest cockroach to eliminate and are found throughout Australia — they spread quickly once established.

⚠️ 5 Clear Signs You’ve Got Cockroaches

• Pepper-like droppings in cupboards, under appliances or along skirting.

• Musty, oily odour (stronger in enclosed spaces).

• Egg cases (oothecae) — small brown capsules behind fridges or inside pantry corners.

• Shed skins (from growing nymphs) near harbourages.

• Daytime sightings — roaches are nocturnal; seeing them in daylight usually signals a heavy infestation.

🧫 Why Cockroaches Are a Health Risk

Cockroaches contaminate surfaces and utensils and their allergens (from droppings, saliva and shed skins) can aggravate asthma and allergies, especially in children and sensitive individuals.

Our warm, humid SEQ climate lets populations build quickly, particularly in food businesses and multi-unit buildings where they can spread through shared services.

🧰 Our Cockroach Treatment Process

1) Inspection & Identification
We confirm species, map harbourages, and check high-risk zones (kitchens, voids, drains).

2) Targeted Treatment
Low-toxicity, industry-approved gels, dusts and residuals applied to cracks, crevices, hinges, voids and service penetrations for fast knockdown.

3) Residual Protection
Long-lasting barriers to keep working between visits.

4) Prevention & Monitoring
Moisture fixes, sanitation guidance, gap sealing (door sweeps, weep holes/mesh), and optional follow-ups for high-pressure sites.

🏠 Simple Prevention That Actually Works

• Wipe spills and keep benches dry (especially at night).

• Store pantry and pet food in sealed containers.

• Empty bins frequently; use tight-fitting lids.

• Fix leaking taps and pipes; dry sink mats/rack trays.

• Don’t leave pet food or dishes out overnight.

• Clean under/behind appliances and along skirting.

• For businesses: maintain pest-proofing as part of your food safety program (a requirement under QLD food laws).

❓ Cockroach Control FAQs

How do I get rid of cockroaches permanently?
Permanent control = professional treatment plus prevention. We eliminate nests and oothecae, then help block what’s attracting them (food, water, warmth and access).

Are your treatments safe for pets and children?
Yes — we use low-toxicity products and advise on simple prep/aftercare. Once dry, treated areas are safe to re-enter.

Why do they keep coming back?
Re-entry via drains, shared walls or gaps around pipes. We treat sources and show you where to seal and maintain.

Do cockroaches mean my home is dirty?
Not necessarily. Even spotless homes can get roaches through entry points or neighbouring activity. Hygiene just reduces food/water that sustain them.

How quickly can you respond?
We service Ipswich, Brisbane and the Lockyer Valley with fast, reliable bookings — We have same day services available! If you require an urgent treatment contact us now to secure your spot.

🧾 Book a Premium Cockroach Pest Controller

If you’ve noticed droppings, a musty smell or live insects, act now. East West Pest provides proven, safe treatments for homes, cafés, offices and commercial kitchens across South East Queensland.

👉 Request your free site inspection and quote today — let’s keep your property pest-free, clean and compliant.