The telltale signs roaches leave behind
Common signs of a cockroach infestation include seeing live roaches — especially during the day — droppings that look like ground pepper or coffee, dark smear marks, shed skins or egg cases, and a musty, oily smell.
Cockroaches usually hide during the day, so spotting them in daylight often means the population has grown large. Check the warm, damp, hidden areas they favor: behind the refrigerator and stove, under the sink, inside cabinets, and around plumbing. Droppings, smear marks along walls and baseboards, tan egg cases, and a distinct musty odor all point to an active infestation.
Catching these signs early makes the problem easier to treat and gives you a clearer record if you need to report it. If you are seeing several of these signs, photograph them and put a written report to your landlord in writing so there is proof of when the problem started.
This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.