Cockroach extermination costs $100 to $600 on average, depending on the extermination method, home size, and infestation severity.

Cockroach sprays, dust, and traps cost $40 to $600 and are best for smaller jobs. Large-scale methods like fumigation or tenting cost $1,000 to $7,500 and are best for major infestations.

Cockroach exterminators use professional-grade traps and insecticides to kill roach infestations quickly. The cockroaches may not all die immediately after the first visit, but most clients see a reduction within a few days. If any eggs survive and hatch after the initial treatment, you'll need another visit to kill the rest of them.

Most cockroach extermination appointments take 1 to 2 hours. Depending on the method, the roaches may take 1 to 3 weeks to fully die off. If the infestation is severe, it may take several visits to resolve the issue. Ask your exterminator if they recommend regular visits if you have an extreme case. This may help kill off any new cockroaches that hatch or return and prevent another infestation.

If you notice any of these signs of cockroaches in your home, consider calling an exterminator:

• Bug droppings
• Musty odors
• Skins or exoskeletons
• Brown smears
• Reddish-brown or black eggs

Cockroaches prefer warm, humid weather and either hibernate or die off in cold weather. Infestations usually happen more often in the spring and summer months. If you live in a warmer environment like California and Florida, roaches may live and breed year-round.

There are three different types of cockroaches that vary mostly in size: 

• American cockroaches are the largest cockroach seen in the U.S. and are about 2 inches long when fully grown.
• German cockroaches are typically less than 1 inch long.
• Oriental cockroaches are also less than 1 inch long.

Follow these steps when looking for a cockroach exterminator near you:

• Search for a licensed, bonded, and insured exterminator with relevant experience.
• Read their reviews on HomeGuide and Google to find exterminators with good reputations.
• Ask which method or chemicals they use.
• Ask for a written estimate and compare quotes from multiple exterminators.

Ask exterminators these questions before paying a deposit or signing a contract:

• How long have you been working as an exterminator?
• Do you offer any guarantees or a warranty?
• Are follow-ups included in this quote?
• Do you offer a free inspection if I buy a treatment plan?
• How long will this extermination take?
• What safety guidelines do you follow when working?
• What do I need to do to prepare my home for you?