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The German cockroach is the most prolific breeder among all cockroaches. Each egg capsule can contain up to 40 eggs and development from egg to adult can occur in as little as 45 days. Like all cockroaches, it is omnivorous and will eat virtually anything people will and many things we won't.

In homes, this pest will first locate itself in bathrooms and the kitchen, as close as possible to food and moisture sources. It spends 75% to 80% of its time resting in cracks and voids. Control of German cockroaches takes persistence and experience. An infestation can be controlled using over-the-counter products, but homeowners often meet with frustration and call a professional.

The smoky brown cockroach usually invades the attic or crawlspace where it finds conditions similar to those found within a tree hole. Once populations grow large inside these areas, the cockroaches regularly venture down into the home. The occasional cockroach may wander into a home from harborage outside but chronic infestations are most always associated with attic or crawlspace populations. Research has shown that attics and crawlspaces that have good ventilation are less likely to have these cockroaches living within them.

The best way to control cockroaches is to determine the source and treat it directly, usually with a cockroach bait product. To keep these cockroaches from invading, the following steps are helpful:

Ensure the attic and/or crawlspace has sufficient ventilation.
Research has shown that proper ventilation creates an environment unsuitable for cockroaches and other pests. It also improves the heating and cooling efficiency of the home.
Make sure that all foundation and attic vents are equipped with tight-fitting screens.
Seal as many exterior cracks and holes as possible on the outside of the home.
Do not allow pet food to sit out overnight. Pick it up after outdoor pets are finished eating.
Store firewood as far from the house as possible, locating it off the ground, and covering it with a tarp or plastic.
Eliminate piles of lumber and debris where cockroaches could harbor.

Eliminating or minimizing potential harborages outside is the best way to limit infestations of these cockroaches.

Sealing cracks in the building's exterior is a prudent step to prevent pests from entering. Installing screening in all vents is important.
Installing screens over floor drains in basements will help exclude oriental cockroaches.
Research has shown that attics and crawlspaces that have good ventilation are less likely to have these cockroaches living within them. Ensuring proper ventilation helps prevent infestations (and also improves heating/cooling efficiency).
Keep firewood piles stored off the ground, covered and as far from the hole as possible.
Eliminate piles of leaf litter, lumber, bricks, or other items. These are common harborages for a wide variety of pests.
Eliminate or minimize heavy ground covers next to or near the foundation.
If placed properly, insect granular baits can be effective in short term control.