Moving Into a New Flat in Dubai or Sharjah? Your Cockroach Checklist

Moving into a new apartment is exciting, until the first cockroach appears in the kitchen. Many flats in Dubai and Sharjah have had several tenants, and cockroaches can be left behind or brought in with your boxes. Use this cockroach checklist for moving into a new flat to start clean.

Before you sign: what to inspect

During the viewing, take a torch and check:

• Under the kitchen sink: droppings, egg cases or dead cockroaches
• Cabinet hinges and corners: black specks like ground pepper
• Behind the fridge and oven if they are included
• Bathroom drains: are there fitted covers?
• Gaps around pipes and loose tiles
• Bin room and corridors: how clean is the building?

Ask the landlord or agent when the flat was last pest-treated, and whether the building has a regular pest control schedule.

Moving day checklist

1. Treat before you unpack

An empty flat is the easiest time to treat. Apply small dots of Advion Cockroach Gel Bait in cabinet hinges, under the sink, behind appliances and near drains before your belongings go in. See where to apply cockroach gel.

2. Unpack boxes outside the kitchen

Cardboard boxes are a common way cockroaches travel. Unpack in the living room or balcony and remove boxes quickly.

3. Check second-hand furniture and appliances

Inspect second-hand fridges, microwaves and furniture carefully before bringing them in. Cockroaches hide in motors and joints.

4. Deep clean the kitchen

Degrease the stovetop, the inside of cabinets and behind appliances. Old grease is food for cockroaches.

5. Seal and cover

Seal gaps around pipes with silicone and fit drain covers in bathrooms and on the balcony.

First month checklist

• Check bait spots weekly and top up any that have been eaten
• Keep food sealed and bins emptied daily
• Run water in all drains every few days
• Report any building-wide problem to management early

If you do find cockroaches, follow our step-by-step apartment guide.

Frequently asked questions

Should I treat a new flat for cockroaches before moving in?

Yes, if possible. An empty flat is the easiest time to place bait in all the hiding spots.

How do I check a flat for cockroaches during a viewing?

Use a torch to check under the sink, cabinet hinges and behind appliances for droppings, egg cases and dead cockroaches.

Can cockroaches come in moving boxes?

Yes. Cardboard boxes are a common way cockroaches travel. Unpack away from the kitchen and remove boxes quickly.

Who is responsible for pest control in a Dubai rental?

It depends on your tenancy contract and building. Check your contract and ask the landlord or building management.