Why Are Rolly Pollies Getting into My Basement?

Posted by Mosquito Squad Plus

October 5, 2026

Why Are Rolly Pollies Getting into My Basement?

Rolly pollies, or pill bugs are attracted to cool, damp environments, which can bring them right into your basement.

If you find rolly pollies along your basement walls, or hanging out by an exterior door, they might have gotten there through the soil or surrounding landscaping. These little armored home invaders have a few surprises in store.

Are Rolly Pollies Insects?

Nope, pill bugs are not actually insects. These terrestrial creatures are crustaceans, more closely related to crabs than actual insects.

If you’ve had any unwanted interactions with rolly pollies, you are familiar with their creepy-looking segmented bodies and seven pairs of legs. You’re probably also familiar with their ability to roll themselves into a tight ball when threatened or disturbed.

Obviously, this defensive bug behavior is how they earned their nickname.

Sometimes pill bugs are confused with sowbugs, which do look similar, but these little guys can’t roll themselves up into a complete ball. However, both do prefer moist environments, like inside and around basements. Both also feed primarily on decomposing organic material, making them useful for the ecosystem, overall.

While they’re unwelcome and unwanted indoor guests, they’re generally harmless nuisances. Rolly pollies are not known to damage structures or furnishings.

Why Are Pill Bugs Coming Inside Your House?

Because pill bugs require moisture to survive, and are commonly found beneath mulch or fallen leaves, moisture is probably the biggest behind their presence inside your home. When their outdoor habitat is in proximity to your home’s foundation, it’s quite common for pill bugs to wander indoors through small openings around basement doors, windows, and foundation walls.

Ergo, damp basements and crawl spaces offer suitable conditions for the occasional pill bug visitor – or visitors, plural.

The good news is that if they make it inside, they’re unlikely to survive, because conditions are typically too dry to sustain them. If you find pill bugs in your basement regularly, it would be worth checking for excess moisture by entry points along the foundation wall.

How Can You Keep Rolly Pollies Out of Your Basement?

One great way to prevent rolly pollies in your basement is to remove accumulated organic material, such as fallen leaves, flowerpots, and other debris directly around your foundation. We’d also recommend checking for potential drainage issues that allow water to collect near your foundation and make sure your downspouts are directing water away from your home.

Indoors, look for plumbing leaks, water seepage, and persistent humidity. If you find any of these, have them corrected promptly.

Then, take a look at basement windows, exterior doors, and your foundation to identify any cracks or gaps that might allow rolly pollies or other pests inside. Have any issues addressed.

Lastly, consider getting in touch with Mosquito Squad Plus of St. Louis Metro East to discuss rolly polly control solutions. This time of year, our winterization services will help knock down active pests and provide 90 days of efficacy to help combat terrestrial pests that tend to pop up.

And the fewer pests you have at the end of the active season means the fewer pests you’ll have emerging when spring rolls back around.

Where Do We Offer Pest Control Services?

Mosquito Squad Plus is pleased to offer mosquito control, as well as upgraded pest control services, including rodent control and deer control, throughout the St. Louis Metro East area, including these and more:

Looking for pest control St. Louis Metro? Call Mosquito Squad Plus.

Mosquito Squad of St. Louis Metro East is pleased to offer highly effective East St. Louis pest control solutions, including rodent control, tick control, mosquito control, and more throughout the area.