If you’ve spotted something long and fast scuttling across your floor late at night, it might’ve been a house centipede. In Huntsville homes, where basements, attics, and crawl spaces are common, these multi-legged critters show up more often than you might expect.
The question is, should you be worried?
House centipedes aren’t aggressive, but they aren’t harmless either. If you live in North Alabama, understanding the risks and knowing what to do can help you stay pest-free throughout the year.
Key Takeaways
- A house centipede inside likely means your home has other pests, such as roaches, fleas, or termites, nearby.
- House centipede bites are rare but can cause swelling or pain in children, pets, or individuals with allergies.
- Damp areas and cluttered spaces can provide hiding places for centipedes, so they should be addressed to prevent a larger infestation.
- A local pest control company can find centipedes, treat hidden spaces, and keep your home pest-free year-round.
They’re a Warning Sign for Other Household Pests
House centipedes feed on small insects, which means if you’ve got them crawling around, it likely means your home has a steady food supply.
That could include fleas, termites, crickets, bed bugs, and even millipedes. These pests can carry diseases, cause damage, or trigger allergies. In a warm, humid place like Huntsville, infestations can escalate quickly without early pest control.
Their Bites Can Trigger Discomfort or Allergic Reactions
Although rare, house centipede bites do occur, and while they are not medically serious for most people, they can be painful. Their venom can cause swelling or irritation, especially for children, pets, or folks with skin sensitivities.
For homeowners already dealing with allergies or respiratory issues, it’s just one more reason to take quick action.
They Love the Same Damp Areas That Lead to Bigger Home Issues
You’ll often find centipedes in damp areas, under sinks, in basements, behind water heaters, or along poorly sealed crawl spaces. These are the same spots where mold can form, termites can gain access, and other pest problems take hold.
A single bug sighting often indicates the need for a more thorough inspection and effective pest management.
They’re Persistent and Hide in Hard-To-Reach Spaces
Centipedes don’t just wander in and out. They reproduce in undisturbed areas and can persist if the conditions are favorable to them.
In Huntsville homes with cluttered attics or basements, or older properties with small cracks or damaged wood, they may build up their numbers over time without being noticed.
What to Do if You See House Centipedes in Your Huntsville Home
If you’ve seen house centipedes inside your home, don’t wait around hoping they’ll disappear on their own.
Here’s what you should do next:
Address Moisture Issues in Key Problem Zones
If you’ve a centipede problem, your first step should be to inspect areas such as crawl spaces, basements, and attics.
Check for plumbing leaks, poor ventilation, or standing water. These damp environments support a range of pests, including termites and silverfish, and attract house centipedes.
Moisture control plays a significant role in long-term pest control services.
Close Off Entry Points and Seal Potential Access Areas
In a place like Huntsville, where homes range from new construction to historic bungalows, there’s no shortage of entry points for pests. Use caulk, weatherstripping, and mesh covers to seal gaps around windows, doors, and utility lines.
This helps block house centipedes and other common pests, including roaches, fleas, and even wasps.
Keep Your Home Clean and Reduce Hiding Spots
Decluttering and cleaning regularly can help deter centipedes.
Be sure to vacuum storage spaces, organize garages and attics, and reduce excess paper, cardboard, and fabric items, as these can provide hiding places for food sources like cockroaches or spiders.
For commercial pest control settings, regular sanitation is even more critical.
Partner With a Local Pest Control Company
When DIY efforts don’t cut it, calling in pest control professionals can make all the difference.
At Magic City Pest Control, we serve homeowners across Huntsville and surrounding areas with customized residential pest control plans.
Whether you’re dealing with house centipedes, termites, or any other type of pest, we tailor our effective pest control services to your specific needs.
Our team inspects for food sources, applies targeted treatments, and provides recommendations for long-term exclusion.
We also offer termite control and termite treatment options to protect your structure from hidden threats, as well as mosquito control solutions to help reclaim your outdoor spaces.
Contact us today and let’s find the right plan for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do house centipedes come out more during certain times of year?
Yes, they’re more active in spring and fall when temperatures shift and humidity increases, especially in homes with poor ventilation, damp conditions, or nearby food sources like small indoor insects.
Can house centipedes climb walls or ceilings?
Yes, they can. Their long legs help them move quickly across vertical surfaces, including walls and ceilings, which is why you might see one in your bathroom or above kitchen cabinets.
Will house centipedes go away on their own?
Not likely. If your home continues to offer food, moisture, and hiding spots, they’ll stick around. Without treatment or prevention, their numbers may even increase over time.
