Non-Destructive and Harmless to Humans
Despite their fearsome appearance, house centipedes are harmless to humans. Unlike termites or rodents, they don’t chew through wood, wiring, or food supplies. They don’t spread diseases like cockroaches or mosquitoes. In fact, house centipedes prefer to stay out of sight and avoid human interaction as much as possible.

While centipedes do possess venom to subdue their prey, their bites are extremely rare and generally harmless to humans. The worst-case scenario for a person might be a mild, bee-sting-like reaction if bitten, but even this is uncommon since house centipedes are not aggressive toward humans.

A Sign of a Bigger Pest Problem
If you frequently see house centipedes in your home, it may indicate that you have a larger pest issue. Since centipedes rely on other insects for food, their presence suggests that your home might already be harboring other pests such as cockroaches or silverfish. Instead of eliminating centipedes, it’s a good idea to investigate what might be attracting them. Taking measures to reduce moisture, seal cracks, and maintain cleanliness can help control both centipedes and their prey.