An insect near a fridge or cooker should be identified before being called a cockroach. If confirmed, the appliance location, food access and nearby gaps matter to the treatment plan.
What evidence helps?
Note where and when the insect was seen. A clear photo or safely contained specimen may help. Do not move a heavy appliance or handle unknown residues merely to search for more.
What can you do now?
Keep food sealed and cleaning instructions realistic. Avoid a room-wide spray without a plan, especially around food-preparation surfaces and electrical equipment.
Details worth including in your enquiry
- A clear insect photo if safely available
- The appliance and nearby food-preparation area
- Previous products and shared access needs
Describe observations in your own words and tell us about any treatment already used. Photos can be useful, but there is no need to take a risky close-up, handle droppings or disturb a nest. If a landlord, tenant or manager needs to provide access, say who can coordinate that before a visit is discussed.
Agreeing a useful next step
Ask how the species will be confirmed, which areas must be accessible and whether monitoring or a follow-up visit is expected. The quote should state preparation and product-specific precautions.
Before agreeing work, ask for the proposed area and method, any preparation or temporary exclusion, the number of visits, the full price and what would lead to a follow-up. Product-specific written instructions take priority over a general article. Sending an enquiry or naming a preferred day does not make a booking.
A common question
Does one insect mean the entire kitchen needs treatment?
Not automatically. The evidence and layout determine the scope.
