Centipede Control: Prevention and Professional Solutions for Your Home

House centipedes (Scutigera coleoptrata)—fast, 15-legged arthropods—startle homeowners but pose minimal threat. They indicate underlying moisture or insect issues. Address root causes for lasting control.

Identification and Behavior

• Yellowish-gray, 1–1.5 in body, 15 pairs of long legs.
• Nocturnal hunters: eat spiders, silverfish, cockroaches, flies.
• Prefer damp, dark areas: basements, bathrooms, crawl spaces.
• Bite rarely; mild localized pain if handled.

Integrated Prevention

1. Reduce moisture: Dehumidifiers, fix leaks, improve ventilation, ensure grading directs water away.
2. Eliminate prey: Control other insects with targeted baits/traps.
3. Seal entry: Caulk cracks, install door sweeps, repair screens, seal utility penetrations.
4. Declutter: Reduce harborage in storage areas.

Treatment Options

• Sticky traps monitor activity.
• Diatomaceous earth in wall voids (food-grade).
• Residual insecticide perimeter treatment (professional application).

When to Call a Pro

Persistent sightings despite moisture/insect control suggest structural issues or hidden infestations. Licensed pest management professionals diagnose and treat comprehensively.

Centipedes are a symptom—fix the environment, and they’ll leave on their own.