Why Centipedes and Millipedes in Worthington Properties Are a Symptom, Not Just a Problem
Centipedes and millipedes require specific conditions to establish in significant numbers — and those conditions are almost always correctable. In Worthington properties, consistent centipede or millipede activity points to excess moisture in the basement or crawlspace, organic debris accumulation around the foundation, or an underlying insect population that centipedes are following as a food source.
Millipedes, which feed on decaying organic matter, often invade in large numbers after heavy rainfall — migrating from outdoor mulch and leaf litter into foundations and through gaps in the building envelope. Centipedes follow the insects they feed on.
Identifying Which Species You Have in Worthington
Centipede: fast-moving, flat-bodied, one leg pair per segment, predatory. House centipedes are drawn indoors by insect prey and can deliver a mild bite if handled directly. Millipede: slow-moving, cylindrical, two leg pairs per segment, feeds on decomposing organic material. Millipedes coil defensively when disturbed and secrete compounds that cause skin and eye irritation in sensitive individuals — handle neither species without protection.
Our Integrated Treatment Approach for Worthington Properties
Our Worthington treatment approach runs on two tracks simultaneously. Residual perimeter treatment and interior application reduce the active population. Moisture assessment, entry point sealing, and harborage reduction advice remove the underlying conditions — so the same problem does not return with the next wet season.