Top 10 Pests That Homeowners in Hampton Roads Battle Year-Round

Hampton Roads, Virginia, is known for its beautiful coastal scenery, rich history, and diverse wildlife. Unfortunately, that same warm, humid climate makes it a hotspot for pests. Whether you're dealing with rodents in the winter or mosquitoes in the summer, keeping pests at bay is a year-round job for homeowners in this region.

Here’s a look at the top 10 pests that cause trouble in Hampton Roads and how you can protect your home.

1. Termites – The Silent Destroyers

Termites are one of the biggest threats to homes in Hampton Roads. Subterranean termites, in particular, thrive in the damp soil of coastal Virginia and can cause thousands of dollars in damage before you even realize they’re there.

💡 Prevention Tip: Schedule an annual termite inspection and keep wood debris away from your foundation.

2. Mosquitoes – Summer’s Worst Enemy

If you’ve spent any time outdoors in Hampton Roads, you know mosquitoes are relentless. The region’s humidity and marshy areas create the perfect breeding grounds for these bloodsuckers. Not only are they annoying, but they also spread diseases like West Nile Virus.

💡 Prevention Tip: Eliminate standing water around your home and use mosquito repellents or professional treatments.

3. Cockroaches – Unwanted House Guests

Roaches thrive in warm, humid environments, making Hampton Roads a paradise for them. The American cockroach (also known as the "Palmetto Bug") is particularly common here, sneaking into homes in search of food and shelter.

💡 Prevention Tip: Keep food sealed, clean up crumbs, and eliminate moisture around sinks and pipes.

4. Ants – Tiny but Troublesome

From pavement ants to invasive Argentine ants, these tiny pests can quickly become a major nuisance in homes. Carpenter ants are especially destructive, as they tunnel through wood and can weaken structures over time.

💡 Prevention Tip: Seal cracks in walls and floors, and keep sugary foods stored in airtight containers.

5. Rodents – Unwanted Winter Visitors

Rats and mice love to seek warmth indoors as the temperatures drop. They chew through wires, contaminate food, and multiply quickly. Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and other cities in the region frequently deal with rodent infestations.

💡 Prevention Tip: Seal any small openings around your home and store food in rodent-proof containers.

6. Spiders – Creepy Crawlers in Every Corner

While most spiders in Hampton Roads are harmless, the black widow and brown recluse can pose serious risks. These venomous spiders prefer dark, undisturbed areas like basements, attics, and sheds.

💡 Prevention Tip: Keep clutter to a minimum and shake out shoes or stored clothing before wearing.

7. Ticks – A Growing Health Threat

Ticks are more than just a nuisance—they carry Lyme disease and other illnesses. Hampton Roads’ wooded areas and warm weather allow ticks to stay active for most of the year.

💡 Prevention Tip: Wear long sleeves when hiking, check for ticks after outdoor activities, and treat pets with flea and tick preventatives.

8. Stink Bugs – Smelly Intruders

Brown marmorated stink bugs are a common problem in the fall as they seek warmth indoors. While they don’t bite or damage homes, their smell can be overwhelming when disturbed.

💡 Prevention Tip: Seal entry points around windows and doors, and use a vacuum to remove them rather than crushing them.

9. Fleas – A Nightmare for Pet Owners

If you have pets, fleas can be a persistent issue. Even if you don’t have animals, these tiny jumpers can still hitch a ride on clothing and infest carpets, furniture, and bedding.

💡 Prevention Tip: Regularly treat pets with flea prevention, vacuum frequently, and wash pet bedding in hot water.

10. Wasps & Hornets – Aggressive Stingers

Paper wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets are common in Hampton Roads, especially in the summer. They build nests in trees, eaves, and even inside walls, posing a serious risk to those allergic to their stings.

💡 Prevention Tip: Remove food and sugary drinks from outdoor spaces, and contact a professional if you spot a large nest.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Pests Take Over Your Home

Living in Hampton Roads means dealing with pests is a part of life, but that doesn’t mean you have to put up with infestations. By staying proactive with prevention and regular pest control treatments, you can keep your home safe and comfortable year-round.

If you’re struggling with pests, consider reaching out to a local pest control service for an inspection and customized treatment plan. After all, your home should be a place of peace—not a haven for unwanted critters!