6 Most Common Pests Around the Home

After 30 years and thousands of homes, the same six culprits account for nearly every call we get. Know them, and you'll know exactly when to act — and when to call us.

1. Odorous house ants

Kitchen trails marching to sugar and grease. First move: don't spray — bait, then seal entries. Our full guide covers all three common species.

2. German cockroaches

Small, fast, and glued to warm appliances. First move: deep-clean behind the stove and fridge, then call for gel baiting — sprays scatter them.

3. House mice

Droppings like black rice and scratching at night. First move: seal food in hard containers and set traps along walls — then seal the entries.

4. Mosquitoes

Breeding within 300 feet — usually your own yard. First move: tip every saucer and unclog gutters, then consider a seasonal barrier plan.

5. Bed bugs

Hitchhikers from travel that settle in mattress seams. First move: don't move rooms (it spreads them) — isolate luggage and call for inspection.

6. House spiders

Mostly harmless, but webs signal other insects to eat. First move: vacuum webs, declutter basements, and seal window gaps.