Bee and wasp control companies

About bee and wasp control

A nest by the front door or wasps flying out of the siding can make your yard feel off limits. A nest in the wrong place is a real stinging risk, especially for anyone with a sting allergy. This guide helps you identify the problem and choose a company that removes it safely.

Signs of a bee or wasp nest near your home

• A steady line of bees or wasps flying in and out of one gap in siding, eaves, a vent or the ground.
• A gray, papery nest under the eaves, a deck railing or a shed roof.
• A cluster of bees on a branch or fence. This is usually a resting honey bee swarm.
• Round holes in wood trim, fascia or decking, often with sawdust below. Carpenter bees make these.
• Buzzing inside a wall, or bees or wasps indoors near windows. Either can mean a nest in a wall or attic.

Lower the odds of a nest without spraying

• Seal gaps in siding, eaves and vent screens in late winter or early spring, before nests start. Only seal openings with no activity.
• Check eaves and sheds in spring, while nests are still small.
• Cover sweet drinks and food outdoors, since yellowjackets are drawn to them in late summer.
• Paint or seal bare wood, which carpenter bees prefer.

Never plug a hole bees or wasps are using, since they may chew a way into your home. Don't pour gasoline or other liquids into ground nests. If you use any product, follow its label, and leave restricted products to licensed professionals.

A honey bee swarm often moves on by itself within a few days. Many areas have beekeepers who collect swarms and relocate them, so keep your distance and ask around first.

Get emergency medical help right away if someone has trouble breathing or swelling of the face or throat after a sting.

How bee and wasp removal usually works

A technician identifies the insect and finds the nest. Yellowjacket and wasp nests are usually treated and removed. For honey bees, many companies remove the colony alive or refer you to a beekeeper.

Honey bees that have built comb inside a wall are a bigger job. The wall usually has to be opened to remove the bees and all the comb, because comb left behind can melt, leak and attract other pests. Then the entry gets sealed and the wall repaired.

Price depends on the insect, the nest's location and height, whether a wall has to be opened, how many nests you have and how fast you need service.

Questions to ask a bee and wasp removal company

1. Are you licensed in this state?
2. Will you inspect and identify the insect before you treat anything?
3. For honey bees, do you remove them alive or work with a local beekeeper?
4. Will you remove the nest and comb, or only treat it?
5. Who opens and repairs the wall or ceiling if that's needed?
6. What happens if bees or wasps are still active after the visit?
7. What should we do before you arrive, such as keeping kids and pets inside?

Compare the bee and wasp removal companies listed above and read their reviews.