How to Get Rid of Stink Bugs

My commercial tenants have reported large quantities of stink bugs gathering on a building wall. How do I get rid of stink bugs?

Brown marmorated stink bugs often gather on sunny walls in the fall while seeking sheltered places to spend winter. This seasonal activity is not usually a sign of poor sanitation. They do not reproduce indoors, but they can hide in wall voids and emerge into tenant spaces later.

If there are small clusters of stink bugs gathering on a commercial building, you can attempt to remove accessible insects but do not crush them. For large clusters or upper-story walls, arrange professional removal and an exterior inspection. Ongoing preventive methods, such as sealing openings that could let them inside and replacing door sweeps, can help to keep them from coming back.

Focus your response on these steps:

• Sweep or vacuum small numbers of stink bugs into a container. Seal and empty the container quickly, as stink bugs can leave an odor in the equipment. Always avoid crushing them for this reason.
• Repair openings around window frames, doors, siding, and utility penetrations with suitable materials.
• Replace damaged screens, worn weatherstripping, and ineffective door sweeps. Keep loading doors closed when practical.
• Have maintenance staff or a qualified contractor check eaves, soffits, and vents. Preserve required ventilation.
• Coordinate tenant reports to record affected walls and indoor sightings and cover the whole building, not just individual units.

A pest professional can assess whether a targeted exterior treatment is appropriate. Timing matters here, treatment is most useful before bugs enter sheltered spaces, and indoor spraying can disrupt the operations of your tenants.