Is it a wasp nest?
Wasp nests are papery and grey, often shaped like a ball, and built in lofts, sheds, eaves, cavity walls and underground. Honeybees and bumblebees are not wasps, and bees are important pollinators, so check what you have before you act. Look for slim, bright yellow-and-black insects with narrow waists.
Should you get rid of a wasp nest?
Wasp colonies die off in winter, so a nest in a harmless spot, such as a far corner of a shed, can be left alone. You should deal with it if it is:
- In or near your home, doors or windows
- In a place where children, pets or visitors go
- In a business or food premises
- Growing and causing concern
Why DIY is risky
Wasps become aggressive when their nest is disturbed, and a swarm can sting many times. Stings are painful and can be dangerous, particularly for people with allergies. Spraying a nest from a ladder is risky. Do not block a nest entrance or try to burn or flood it.
Safer things you can do
- Keep children and pets away from the area
- Keep windows near the nest closed
- Remove food sources and cover bins
- Observe from a distance to work out where the nest is, and note the entrance
What about the council?
Many councils no longer treat wasp nests, or charge a fee. Check your local council's website to see what is offered.
When to call a professional
A trained technician has the protective equipment and treatments to remove a nest safely, and can advise on preventing nests returning next year. This is the safest route if the nest is high up, hidden in a wall or roof, or large. See how much pest control costs in the UK for guidance on prices, and our guide to how to keep wasps away for prevention.
Asian hornets
Asian hornets are a threat to honeybees and have been recorded in the UK. If you think you have seen one, report it through the official Asian Hornet Watch app or website rather than treating it yourself.
Frequently asked questions
Will a wasp nest go away on its own?
The colony dies off in winter, but a nest can cause problems for months, and new queens may start new ones next year.
Do wasps attack when you kill one?
A crushed wasp can release a scent that attracts other wasps, so it is best to move away calmly.
Is it safe to remove a wasp nest myself?
It is risky. Professional removal is safer, particularly for large or hard-to-reach nests.
Need a wasp nest removed?
Visit anticimex.co.uk to arrange safe wasp treatment with our team.