Need pest help? Save $50 on your first recurring service today with code GET50

Do I have to live with wire bugs in my basement?

Question: I recently bought a townhouse (no basement) and I have killed 12-24 "wire bugs" or millipedes in the past week.

I've only seen them on the main floor at night. My neighbors in the same structure all have the same problem, but they have never looked into the cause of the problem. Is this something that I will just have to live with?

The man at the local hardware store said that these bugs can be an indicator of water damage and rot to either the foundation or walls. Is this true? I'd like to know if this is just a nuisance or an indication of a larger problem. Because I just bought the place and moved in, I do not know if there has been previous water damage. The townhouse is 15 years old in Eagan, Minn.

Answer: The local hardware store fellow is ... mostly wrong.

Millipedes live outdoors in organic material that is mostly moist and decaying: dead leaves, garden mulch, sometimes turfgrass.

Their numbers can increase quickly if their environment gets too wet. Then they may move somewhere drier or warmer, such as the sides of houses. They can get inside homes by going under door thresholds or around windows.

Be sure to remove any moist mulch near doors. Be sure that doors are sealed tight. The good news is that they usually die after they enter your house because it is too dry for them.

For further assistance, contact your local Orkin Branch Office to set up an inspection by a highly trained Orkin Pro. Your Pro will develop a customized treatment plan backed by science that best meets your needs.

Ask Orkin

Get More Answers from Orkin

How to Control Ladybugs and Larvae Infestations

Q

Does your company offer a solution for getting rid of ladybugs?

What Do Bed Bugs and Eggs Look Like on Clothes?

Q

What do I do with the clothes?

How Long Does Ant Bait Take to Get Rid of Ants?

Q

Since my initial Orkin service one week ago, my ant problem has gotten worse. The ants are in the kitchen now, where initially they were not. What can be done to keep the ants at bay while waiting for extra service?

Can Bed Bugs Jump or Fly? | How do Bed Bugs Travel?

What is the cost for getting rid of ticks?

Q

What does Orkin charge to inspect a two-bedroom apartment?

How do I stop mice from getting inside the house?

Q

I have children and I'm curious how effective your services are for getting rid of mice once and for all.

How do I get rid of box elder bugs inside?

Q

Can you effectively get rid of box elder bugs from inside the house? Please tell me about the plan and how it works. What is the estimated cost?

What is the cost to get rid of wasps?

Q

How much does it cost to get rid of an infestation of mice in an apartment?

What should I look for when choosing a pest control company?

Q

What should I look for when choosing a pest control company/professional?

How do I keep spiders out of my home?

Q

How do I keep spiders out of my home?

Connect with Us

Our customer care team is available for you 24 hours a day.

877-819-5061

Find a Branch

Our local Pros are the pest experts in your area.

Get a Personalized Quote

We will help you find the right treatment plan for your home.

THE BEST IN PESTS.™

SERVICES

Pest ControlTermite ControlPrevent and Protect

PEST LIBRARY

Browse All Pests

© 2023 Orkin LLC

Terms of UsePrivacyAccessibility StatementCareers