I have recently learned a great deal about this disgusting arthropod. An unfortunate experience has led me to this sidetrack. I recently listed a multi-unit home which, unbeknownst to my client, was infested with cockroaches. We learned this once the home went under contract and the inspection was done. The unit they were found in was a newly occupied unit. It had been vacant for a few weeks and then a new tenant signed a lease right before we negotiated an accepted offer.

Mind you, this is not my first circus with these infectious pests. Right after graduating from college, we moved into an apartment closer to my work that happened to be infested. We walked in with all our boxes and belongings — which, granted, was not much — and noticed these diseased insects crawling all over the cabinets and cupboards. We put all our stuff back in the car and had to camp out at a friend’s place until the problem was “resolved.” The term is used loosely in this context since cockroaches can live through a nuclear disaster. The creepy bugs can live a month without food, they can live up to one entire week without a head, and they can hold their breath for up to 40 minutes. They are nearly kill-proof. If only humans could do the same, although I’m not sure how living without a head would work. I would have to ask a teenager, since they seem to have experience with this.

I don’t think I’m going too far out on a limb to say that the loathsome creatures are repulsive. They are commonly found in buildings and homes because they prefer to keep warm and close to food and water. Food, however, can mean anything. Although they love sugar, they can also thrive on soup, glue, leather, grease and even hair. Sadly, they can transport bacteria, including E. coli, salmonella and staphylococcus. Their saliva and droppings can trigger asthma attacks as well.

Either way, people tend to shy away from the entire experience if given the choice, even if the contract has been signed. Fortunately, there are remedies. Obviously, the best course of action is to keep them out in the first place. They are hitchhikers, so they can sneak in. We are convinced this is what happened with the current tenants. Throw your takeout food containers in the garbage after consumption. Don’t leave any food containers out or open. Caulk the cracks in walls and trim bushes back from the home. Keep things dry. They are attracted to dark and water.

If it is too late, and they have already moved in, such as the case with my listing, it will take a veritable army to get them out. You will need to enlist the help of an experienced pest control professional. The old-fashioned home remedies don’t work, and the result can actually be dangerous to the homeowner. It generally takes more than one visit by a professional to eradicate them. The key, however, is to keep them at bay by keeping your home clean — and that, unfortunately, is not something this particular tenant plans to do.

Jen Fischer is an associate broker and Realtor. She can be reached at 801-645-2134 or jen@jen-fischer.com.