Flying pests
Bee hives
Where possible, we have the bees removed by an apiarist. We only recommend the use of chemicals if hive removal is not possible due to access restrictions.
- Stay away
- 24 hours
- Activity drops
- Within 24 hours
Get your home ready
Before we arrive
After treatment
- Stay away from treated area for 24 hours
- Do not touch or tamper with treated hive
- Seal entry points once treatment is complete
- Make any structural repairs if necessary
- Monitor area for new activity
Common questions
Will the bees be relocated?
Where possible, we engage an apiarist to relocate the hive.
Why can't all bees be relocated?
Some hives are located in inaccessible structural areas where removal is not possible.
Are bees dangerous?
Bees usually leave you alone, but they will sting to defend the hive. Keep away from it.
How quickly does treatment work?
Bee activity significantly reduces within 24 hours.
Will bees return?
New swarms may establish nests if entry points are not sealed.
Can I remove the hive myself?
DIY removal can be dangerous and may provoke aggressive behaviour.
What do I do for a bee sting?
Slide or scrape your fingernail across the sting to remove it, rather than pulling at it. Then wash the area and use a cold pack to bring the swelling down. If you're unwell, call 000 in an emergency, or Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 for health advice.
When does a bee sting need hospital?
Anyone stung in the mouth, or stung many times at once, needs to go to hospital. That means more than 10 stings for an adult or more than 5 for a child. Call 000 and ask for an ambulance.
Signs you've got bees
- Honey bees are usually brown, with a banded dull yellow and brown abdomen.
- Lots of bees, not just the odd one. Honey bees live in large hives with a single queen.
- Bees defending one spot. They usually leave you alone, but they will sting to defend the hive. Keep away from it.
- A swarm of bees. If you find one, don't go near it.
- Not every bee-like insect is a honey bee. Native solitary bees and wasps can look similar but aren't aggressive, and flies only have one pair of wings and don't sting.
Keep them away
- Seal wall gaps and roof entry points
- Avoid leaving sweet food or drinks exposed outdoors
- Arrange early removal when bee activity is first noticed
What happens next
Booking the treatment
Where we can, we remove and relocate the hive rather than just spraying it, so another swarm doesn't move into the same cavity.
Still have a question?
Call us and we'll help. If you're still seeing activity after the times on this page, let us know.