Pestforce Latest News

Key Takeaway

The most effective and safest way to remove a wasp nest in 2025 is to contact a qualified pest control professional. DIY solutions such as boiling water, supermarket sprays, or homemade treatments are not only hazardous, but may also be illegal under UK pesticide regulations if used improperly.

Is It Safe to Remove a Wasp Nest Yourself?

It’s understandable why homeowners consider removing a wasp nest themselves—quick fixes feel tempting. But the risks are significant:

• Wasps respond aggressively when threatened, often stinging in large numbers.
• Allergic reactions to stings can be life-threatening, particularly for children or the elderly.
• Insecticides can be bought by non-professionals, but if used inappropriately, you could breach UK law and pose health risks to others in your home.

Fact: A typical nest can house up to 5,000 wasps by late summer. Towards the end of the season, wasps become increasingly aggressive as they seek out sugars from fruit and human food.

“Wasp nest removal is not a job for DIY. A trained technician knows how to assess and treat nests safely, in line with UK laws, and effectively.”
— Natalie Bungay, Pestforce UK

Signs You May Have a Wasp Nest Nearby

Here’s how to spot a nest early:

• Wasps frequently flying in and out of brickwork holes, roof tiles, sheds, or air bricks
• Increased activity around bins, compost, or garden eating areas
• A constant buzzing sound from inside cavity walls or ceilings
• Visible nests: grey, papery structures found in lofts, eaves, garages, trees or bushes
  (Do not disturb or inspect nests closely.)

Fact: Wasps chew wood into a pulp to construct their nests, giving them that distinct grey, paper-like look.

How Professionals Remove Wasp Nests (Step-by-Step)

Pestforce technicians follow BPCA best practices and are trained and qualified to use specialist insecticides unavailable to the public.

1. Inspection & Risk Assessment

The technician identifies the nest location, confirms the species, and evaluates access and risks to determine the safest approach.

2. Application of Insecticide

• If the nest isn’t accessible (e.g. behind brickwork), we use a specialist dust insecticide applied to the nest’s entry point using an extendable lance. Wasps carry the dust inside, eliminating the colony within 24–48 hours.
• If the nest is visible and accessible, such as in a loft, the technician will assess and apply the most effective formulation—aerosol, liquid or dust—depending on safety and access.

You’ll be advised to stay away from the treatment area until activity has ceased.

3. Follow-Up and Monitoring

If wasp activity continues beyond a few days, the technician will assess and, if required, recommend further treatment.

FAQ Answered: Will wasps return to a treated nest?
No. Once the queen and colony are dead, the nest becomes inactive and will not be reused.

Fact: Wasps never reuse old nests, but a new queen may build in a nearby spot the following year.

What Happens If You Leave a Nest Untreated?

While some hope the issue will resolve on its own, an untreated nest can cause:

• Rapid colony growth—up to 10,000 wasps by late summer
• More aggressive behaviour as the colony declines and wasps become intoxicated from overripe fruit
• Greater risk of accidental stings, particularly near doors, patios or bins
• A serious hazard for families, pets, and tradespeople

FAQ Answered: Will a wasp nest go away on its own?
Technically yes—most die off by winter—but this could mean months of risk and nuisance.

What’s the Best Time to Remove a Wasp Nest?

Early morning or evening is typically safest, as wasps are less active. However, trained professionals can treat nests safely at any time of day, using the correct tools and precautions.

Costs of Professional Wasp Nest Removal in 2025

• Prices vary within Pestforce
• No hidden charges 
• Fixed prices agreed before any work begins
• Payment accepted by card or online transfer

Why Choose a BPCA-Approved Pest Controller?

• All Pestforce technicians are DBS-checked, insured, and local
• Professionally trained and CPD-registered via the BPCA
• Access to specialist, regulated insecticides
• Over 25,000 verified five-star reviews nationwide
• Rapid response from a network of local experts
• Comprehensive public liability insurance

Fact: Only certified professionals are legally allowed to use certain powerful insecticides for wasp control in the UK.

Book Your Local Pestforce Wasp Control Expert

To schedule an inspection or get a quote:

• 📞 Call: 0333 567 0577
• Or please use our find technician tool / contact form near the bottom of this page.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many wasps live in a typical nest?

Anywhere from 5,000 to 10,000 by peak season in late summer.

What’s the purpose of a wasp?

Though feared, wasps are beneficial: they pollinate plants and hunt small pests such as aphids and flies.

Can I prevent wasps nesting next year?

Prevention is difficult, but early detection and treatment can help avoid nests establishing again in the same area.

Should I destroy an old, empty nest?

Not necessary, as it won’t be reused—but if it’s in a problematic location, removal may be sensible.

11/07/2025

Written By Natalie Bungay, Pestforce Technical Director

Former Technical and Compliance Manager at BPCA

We are pleased to announce the new owner of Pestforce Boston and South Lincolnshire.

Jon Sansum is now your local pest control expert for Boston, Spalding, Skegness and the surrounding South Lincolnshire area. 

With professional training and BPCA accreditation, Jon offers effective, safe and responsive pest control solutions for both residential and commercial clients — dealing with rodents, insects, birds and more.

Contact Jon today on 01205 347 030 or visit the Boston webpage at: www.pest-force.co.uk/Boston/

We are pleased to announce the new owner of Pestforce Ayrshire, proudly serving Kilmarnock, Ayr, Irvine and beyond.

Alan Hunter is now your dedicated pest control professional for the Ayrshire region. 

Born and bred in Ayrshire, Alan delivers a friendly, reliable and professional service for homes and businesses—covering everything from rodents and insects to birds and wildlife.

Contact Alan today on 01292 859 065 or visit the Ayrshire webpage at: https://www.pest-force.co.uk/Ayr/

Pestforce are excited to announce the new owner of Pestforce Doncaster.

Harry Leyland, grandson of our former Technical Director Phil Shaw, is now your trusted local pest control expert for Doncaster and the surrounding areas, proudly covering all DN postcodes.

Continuing the family tradition of excellence, Harry is committed to delivering professional, effective, and safe pest control solutions to homes and businesses alike. Whether you're tackling rodents, insects, or birds, Harry is ready to help protect your property and keep it pest-free.

Contact Harry today on 01302 969 096 or visit the Doncaster webpage at: https://www.pest-force.co.uk/Doncaster/

We are pleased to announce the new owner of Pestforce Salford and Bury, proudly serving North Manchester.

Jason Crooks is now your dedicated pest control professional for Salford, Bury, and surrounding areas, covering key M postcodes.

With a focus on delivering top-quality pest control solutions, Jason offers a friendly, reliable, and professional service for both homes and businesses. From rodents and insects to birds and other pests, Jason has the expertise and tools to resolve your pest problems quickly and effectively.

Contact Jason and partner Cathy today on 0161 410 1590 or visit the Salford webpage at: https://www.pest-force.co.uk/Salford/

Pestforce are excited to announce the new owner of Pestforce Leeds.

Dan Thewlis is now your go-to pest control expert for Leeds and the surrounding areas, covering most LS postcodes.

Dan is committed to delivering professional, effective, and safe pest control solutions to both homes and businesses. Whether you’re dealing with rodents, insects, or birds, Dan is here to help you protect your property and keep it pest-free.

Contact Dan today on 01134 360 263 or visit the Leeds webpage at: https://www.pest-force.co.uk/Leeds/

Pestforce are excited to announce the new owner of Pestforce Plymouth.

Joel Caddy is now your go-to pest controller for Plymouth and the South Hams, covering most PL postcodes.

With a strong commitment to delivering exceptional pest control solutions, Joel is ready to help you with any pest issues in your home or business.

Contact Joel today on 01752 905 120 or visit the Plymouth webpage at: https://www.pest-force.co.uk/Plymouth/