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Why Are Waterbugs in My House? (They Came for the Basement Spa)
A huge bug scuttles out of the floor drain while you’re doing laundry. You scream. It doesn’t care. Here’s why it’s there.
What brings them in
| Reason | Fix |
|---|---|
| Dry floor drains | Pour water down unused drains regularly so the trap stays full. |
| Damp basements and crawl spaces | Dehumidifier, fix leaks, improve drainage. |
| Cracks in foundation, gaps under doors | Seal cracks, add door sweeps. |
| Mulch and leaves against the house | Pull them back from the foundation. |
| Leaky pipes | Fix drips under sinks and around water heaters. |
| Heavy rain or drought | Rain floods sewers; drought sends them looking for water. |
Getting rid of them
Baits and treatment around drains, foundations and entry points, plus moisture control and sealing. Lots of them, or ones coming from neighbors? That’s a pro job. Read waterbug vs. cockroach · what kills roaches
Watch: Silver Bullet cockroach control
What to look for
More about waterbugs
Fun facts about other pests
- 21 Fun Facts About Ants
- 20 Fun Facts About Squirrels
- 20 Fun Facts About Bees and Wasps
- 20 Fun Facts About Mice
- 18 Fun Facts About Rats
- 18 Fun Facts About Cockroaches
Common questions
Why are there waterbugs in my house?
They come in for moisture, shelter and food, usually through drains, cracks and gaps under doors.
Do waterbugs come up through drains?
Yes, especially through basement floor drains that have dried out.
How do I keep waterbugs out?
Keep drains filled with water, reduce moisture, seal cracks and gaps, and clear mulch from the foundation.
Does one waterbug mean an infestation?
Not always — but several, or seeing them often, means they’re living nearby.
Schedule today
Call 973-510-2585, text us or request a free quote online. Silver Bullet Pest Control is licensed and insured in New Jersey.