German cockroaches favor warm, humid spaces near food and water — kitchens, behind appliances, under sinks — and Skokie's a four-season climate with real winter cold, heavy snow, and notoriously strong winds off the lake keeps them active most of the year. American cockroaches, larger and reddish-brown, prefer basements, drains, and utility rooms. Dense brick bungalows and two-flats throughout the city, alongside single-family ranch and colonial homes across the suburbs, most with basements.
We start with an inspection to identify the species and the source — sanitation issue, moisture problem, or entry point. Treatment centers on gel bait placed in cracks, voids, and under appliances, not broadcast spraying, since German cockroaches in particular have developed resistance to many surface sprays. A follow-up visit confirms the bait is working and the population is dropping.