Wasps are a common problem during the warmer months and can quickly become a serious nuisance around homes, gardens, and businesses. Unlike bees, wasps can sting multiple times, which makes them a risk to people and pets. Their stings are painful and, for some individuals, can trigger severe allergic reactions.
Wasps build their nests in sheltered spots such as roof spaces, sheds, wall cavities, and trees. A nest may start small but can grow rapidly, housing thousands of wasps by late summer. If left untreated, they can become aggressive when disturbed and pose a real danger.
How a Wasp Nest Grows Through the Year
Wasp problems follow the seasons. A queen that has hibernated through the winter comes out in spring and starts a small nest on her own. Her first eggs become workers, and from then on the nest grows quickly through the summer. Late in the season it produces new queens and males, and by autumn every wasp except the new queens has died. Old nests are not used again the following year, although a new one can be built right beside an old one.
That is why late summer, when nests are at their biggest, is when wasps cause the most trouble, and why an empty nest found in winter is no threat. A nest found early in the summer is a smaller and simpler job than one left until August, so it pays to stop wasps building nests where you can and to call early when you cannot.
If someone is stung and their lips, mouth, throat or tongue swell, they struggle to breathe, or their skin turns pale, grey or blue, call 999. The NHS lists these as possible signs of a serious allergic reaction.
Asian Hornets in Kent
The yellow-legged hornet, often called the Asian hornet, is an invasive species that has been turning up in Kent. In 2024 the government reported that many of the nests found in Kent were near Dover, Deal and Folkestone. It is mainly black with yellow ends to its legs, and it is often confused with our native European hornet.
Do not approach or try to destroy a nest yourself. Report a sighting through the Asian Hornet Watch app or the online reporting form, with a photo if you can take one safely. In England the National Bee Unit finds and destroys the nests. An ordinary wasp nest around your home or business is a job for us.
Wasp Control Process
We follow a clear and effective process to remove wasp infestations safely.
01 Wasp Control Inspection
Our technicians will assess your property to locate the nest and determine the level of activity. We also check for secondary nests and identify potential entry points around your home or garden. After inspection, we provide you with a tailored treatment plan.
02 Wasp Control Treatment
We use professional treatments designed to eliminate the wasp nest safely and quickly. Our technicians apply specialist insecticides directly into the nest or entry point, targeting the entire colony. For safety reasons, we never recommend attempting to remove or destroy a nest without professional help.
Preventing Future Wasp Problems
Although wasps cannot always be prevented, certain steps reduce the chance of nests forming near your property.
- Keep bins sealed and away from doors and windows.
- Clear away food and drink spillages, especially outdoors.
- Check roof spaces, sheds, and garages for early signs of nest building.
- Seal gaps and entry points around eaves, roofs, and walls.
- Avoid leaving sugary foods or drinks exposed in gardens.
By dealing with wasps early and keeping your property well maintained, you can reduce the risk of large nests developing. Professional treatment is always the safest and most effective option when wasps are present.