Frequently Asked Questions

Honeybees can cause several types of damage to a property. One notable issue is honey dripping through ceilings, which can occur when large hives are present within structures. Additionally, the presence of bees can lead to damage to mortar due to condensation, resulting in dampness that can further deteriorate building materials. Timber rot is also a significant concern, as the moisture and hive activity can weaken wooden structures. Furthermore, bee infestations can attract secondary pests like rats, exacerbating the problem. Addressing bee infestations promptly is crucial to prevent these types of damage to your property.

To coexist safely with bees, ensure that their nesting area is undisturbed and away from high-traffic areas. Provide a garden with a variety of plants to support their nutrition, and avoid using pesticides that could harm them. If safety becomes a concern, contact a professional bee removal service to relocate the colony.

Consider the species of bee, the location of the colony, potential safety risks, the impact on local ecosystems, and any legal requirements for property owners. Consulting with a professional can help determine the best course of action.

Yes, if a bee colony is left to thrive without management, it can grow significantly, leading to larger infestations. This can create more complex removal situations and increase the potential for property damage and safety risks.

There may be liabilities associated with bee infestations, especially if they pose a risk to public safety. It’s advisable to manage bee populations responsibly to mitigate any legal issues.

Bees are some of the world’s most effective pollinators. By transferring pollen from one flower to another, they facilitate plant reproduction, which is vital for a healthy environment, crop yields, and maintaining diverse plant species.

Bees typically do not pose a threat to wildlife and are an integral part of the local ecosystem. Pets may be at risk of stings if they disturb a bee colony, which can be dangerous, particularly if the pet has an allergy to bee stings.

Yes, particularly in the case of honeybees, which may build hives within walls or other parts of a structure, potentially causing damage over time due to honey seepage and comb construction. It’s important to address a bee infestation promptly to avoid such damage.

Absolutely. Bees play a crucial role in pollinating plants, which is essential for the reproduction of many flowers and crops. They contribute to ecological balance and the health of gardens and agricultural areas.

If left unchecked, bees can overpopulate, potentially leading to aggressive behaviour as they defend their territory. While bees are critical for pollination and the environment, an uncontrolled presence on your property can risk imbalances in local ecosystems and lead to conflicts with humans and pets.

Live bee removal is the preferred and often the only viable option for removing bees from buildings.Alternative methods like spraying are harmful to the environment, potentially illegal, and onlytreat the symptom rather than the problem.

Spraying leads to the death of bees, which in turn causes the unattended honeycomb to melt,potentially damaging buildings with leaking honey. This method also attracts secondary pests like rats and can lead to recurring infestations from other bee swarms attracted to the residual honeycomb. Furthermore, the use of poison can harm neighbouring bee populations, as “robber bees” might contaminate their hives and our honey supply. To abide by the code of practice for the control of honeybees all entry points must be sealed which will not allow the building to breathe and can cause the breakup of mortar and dampness through condensation buildup and freeze-thaw weathering.
*unless a company specifies they do live bee removal, they will likelyspray them which we warn against.
Setting traps to allow bees to exit without returning or trying to coax them out is a less effective method and often doesn’t work, as it relies heavily on the slim chance of trapping the queen who doesn’t leave the comb, only when she swarms. It also does not address the issue of the remaining honeycomb.
Live bee removal, by contrast, safely relocates the entire bee colony and deals with the honeycomb,ensuring a thorough and environmentally responsible resolution to the problem.

It’s advisable to check your home insurance policy for any pest removal coverage. Some insurers may offer special add-ons or separate policies for pest control services, which could include bee removal. If the bees have caused significant structural damage to your property, your policy might cover the repairs, but not the actual removal of the bees.

Honeybees can cause several types of damage to a property. One notable issue is honey dripping through ceilings, which can occur when large hives are present within structures. Additionally, the presence of bees can lead to damage to mortar due to condensation, resulting in dampness that can further deteriorate building materials. Timber rot is also a significant concern, as the moisture and hive activity can weaken wooden structures. Furthermore, bee infestations can attract secondary pests like rats, exacerbating the problem. Addressing bee infestations promptly is crucial to prevent these types of damage to your property.

Yes, you can choose to leave the bees in your property, but it’s important to be aware of the
potential consequences. Besides the expanding honeycomb causing structural damage over time, (the
heat and condensation generated by the hive can deteriorate the mortar and other building
materials). This weakening of structural elements can lead to more significant issues in the long
term. Additionally, the honeycomb may attract other pests, and there’s a risk of honey seeping into
your walls or ceilings.
The presence of bees, especially in large numbers, also poses a risk of defensive behaviour, which
can be a concern for those on the property, particularly for individuals with bee sting allergies.
Furthermore, the scent of the honeycomb can attract new swarms, potentially leading to recurring bee
infestations.
While leaving the bees undisturbed is an option, professional removal, such as the services offered
by
Beegone, is often a safer and more sustainable solution to prevent these risks and
protect the integrity of your property.

The responsibility for bee removal typically depends on the ownership and nature of the property.
Here are the general guidelines:

• Homeowners: If you own your home, the responsibility for bee removal usually falls
  to you. It’s important to handle the situation responsibly, not only for the safety of your
  household but also to consider the ecological importance of bees.
• Landlords and Property Managers: For rental properties, landlords or property
  management companies are generally responsible for pest control, including bee removal. If
  you’re renting, you should contact your landlord or property manager to report the issue.
• Business Owners: In commercial properties, the business owner or the property
  management company is usually responsible for arranging and funding the removal of bees.
• Local Authorities: In some cases, if the bees are on public property or pose a
  public health risk, local government bodies or councils might take responsibility for their
  removal.
• Bee Conservation Organisations: Sometimes, bee conservation groups or local
  beekeeping associations may offer to remove bees for free, such as the BBKA. They will often
  only collect the swarm if they’re in an easy-to-remove location such as in a bush, they often
  won’t touch them in hard-to-reach places such as a wall or chimney due to the risks and extent
  of the work.

The cost for live bee removal starts from around £1,500 for simple removal and can go upwards of
£15,000, depending on factors like ease of access, the extent of damage caused by the bees, the
necessary proofing to prevent future infestations, and the length of the guarantee. Each situation
is unique, so we provide tailored quotes based on the specific requirements of the job.

We charge for bee removal because our service goes beyond what is typically offered for free.
Beekeepers might remove swarms from easily accessible locations at no cost, but established bee
colonies in buildings require more expertise, experience, and equipment. These situations often need
scaffolding for high-to-reach areas, increasing the complexity and cost. Our service encompasses the
knowledge, experience, and insurance necessary to handle these more challenging scenarios safely and
effectively, ensuring a comprehensive solution to the problem.

The necessity of paying for a survey in bee removal lies in the precision and thoroughness it brings
to the process. Our use of advanced tools like drones and thermal imaging cameras is essential to
accurately locate the bee colony and honeycomb, which might not be immediately evident from the
entry point. This approach ensures that we correctly identify the actual location of the colony,
even if it’s in a different area from where the bees are seen entering, leading to a more effective
and targeted removal strategy. This cost will also be taken off the removal process if you decide to
go ahead.

Bee removal can be expensive due to several factors. Access to the colony often requires special
equipment, which increases costs. Additionally, the process involves the cost of insurance, which is
higher for bee removal due to its risky nature. Taking apart and reconstructing parts of the
building fabric also adds to the expense. Working around bees is a slower process as it requires
wearing protective bee suits and handling bees delicately to minimise harm. All these elements
combined contribute to the overall cost of bee removal services.

Absolutely. Our bee removal practices are designed to be environmentally friendly and sustainable. We eschew the use of harmful chemicals in favour of humane, non-lethal approaches that safeguard bee populations and contribute positively to the ecosystem’s wellbeing.

We provide a guarantee on our bee removal services. Should bees return to the same spot within a specified timeframe, we will revisit to resolve the issue at no extra charge to you. Our aim is to deliver lasting solutions to our clients.

Indeed, we offer bee removal services for both residential and commercial premises. Our team is capable of addressing bee removals across diverse environments, from homes and gardens to businesses and public areas.

The duration of a bee removal service varies significantly depending on the job’s complexity. Simple swarm removals may take a few hours, whereas more intricate hive extractions from structures might require a week or longer. We are committed to completing all removals promptly, without compromising bee safety.

Bee welfare is our priority, and we adopt non-lethal, bee-friendly methods for removal and relocation. This includes using smoke to soothe the bees, employing gentle handling practices, and securing a suitable new habitat for their resettlement.

For aggressive bees, we employ protective gear and soft handling techniques to reduce stress and agitation during the removal process. Our experienced technicians are adept at managing such situations, ensuring the safety of both the bees and individuals nearby.

Removing a bee swarm typically involves gently collecting the swarm, often found hanging on a branch or similar structure, into an appropriate container for relocation. In contrast, hive removal, which includes comb and brood, necessitates the careful extraction of the hive structure and bees, followed by their transfer to a new home. Both processes are executed with the highest regard for bee welfare.

Yes, our team is proficient and equipped to manage bee removals from challenging sites, including tall trees and chimneys. We utilise specialised equipment and techniques to safely extract bees without causing harm to them or the structure involved.

The suitable removal method is identified through a detailed initial assessment, which considers the species of bee, the nest or swarm’s location, accessibility, and environmental factors. Each species exhibits unique behaviours necessitating distinct approaches to ensure a safe and successful removal.

We provide a comprehensive suite of bee removal services, encompassing the safe relocation of swarms, hives, and bees nesting within structures like walls, roofs, chimneys, and trees. Our services are customised to cater to various bee species, including honeybees, bumblebees, and solitary bees.

After the removal process, the bees are well taken care of. Our friendly technicians either keep the
bees themselves or find local beekeepers who are happy to provide a new home for them. This ensures
that the bees are looked after and continue to thrive, contributing to the local ecosystem. We’re
committed to handling bee removals in a way that’s friendly to both the bees and the environment.

Yes, Beegone offers an array of educational resources and programmes designed to increase awareness of bees’ significance. This encompasses workshops, presentations, and online content available to schools, community groups, and the wider public.

Our removal practices are meticulously designed to be non-toxic, employing techniques that safeguard the bees’ well-being. We continually refine our methods based on the latest bee conservation research and best practices.

Clients can contribute by adopting bee-friendly gardening practices, supporting local beekeeping, and participating in community initiatives focused on bee conservation. Beegone provides guidance and resources to help clients make a positive impact.

Beegone promotes bee-friendly environments by advising clients on creating and maintaining habitats that support bee health, such as planting bee-friendly flowers, reducing pesticide use, and providing water sources.

Bees play a vital role in pollinating plants, which is essential for the reproduction of many fruits, vegetables, and flowers, contributing to biodiversity and food security. Conservation is necessary to protect these crucial pollinators from threats such as habitat loss, pesticides, and diseases.

Yes, Beegone collaborates closely with local beekeepers and conservation groups to ensure the safe relocation of bees and to support wider conservation efforts that benefit bee populations across the UK.

After removal, the bees are carefully relocated to suitable habitats or entrusted to local beekeepers, where they can continue to thrive and contribute to the pollination of local flora.

Beegone actively participates in bee conservation through a variety of initiatives, including habitat restoration projects, support for research on bee health, and public awareness campaigns designed to highlight the crucial role of bees in our ecosystems.

Yes, you can choose to leave the bees in your property, but it’s important to be aware of the
potential consequences. Besides the expanding honeycomb causing structural damage over time, (the
heat and condensation generated by the hive can deteriorate the mortar and other building
materials). This weakening of structural elements can lead to more significant issues in the long
term. Additionally, the honeycomb may attract other pests, and there’s a risk of honey seeping into
your walls or ceilings.
The presence of bees, especially in large numbers, also poses a risk of defensive behaviour, which
can be a concern for those on the property, particularly for individuals with bee sting allergies.
Furthermore, the scent of the honeycomb can attract new swarms, potentially leading to recurring bee
infestations.
While leaving the bees undisturbed is an option, professional removal, such as the services offered
by
Beegone, is often a safer and more sustainable solution to prevent these risks and
protect the integrity of your property.

Professional bee removal helps mitigate the health risks associated with bee infestations, such as reducing the chances of bee stings and allergic reactions, preventing potential structural damage to properties, and lowering the risk of attracting other pests.

Safety during the use of bee removal equipment is maintained through strict adherence to operational protocols, regular maintenance checks of the equipment, and comprehensive training of our personnel in its proper use.

The risk of allergic reactions is primarily related to bee stings. Our team is trained to manage these situations with immediate first aid and, in the case of severe reactions, to call for emergency medical services promptly.

Yes, bees, particularly honeybees, can cause structural damage if they build hives within walls or other parts of a building. The weight of the hive and potential honey seepage can affect the integrity of structures. The buildup of moisture can also rot timbers.

Our team wears professional beekeeping suits, which include veiled helmets, gloves, and body suits, providing full coverage and protection against bee stings during the removal process.

It’s advisable to keep a safe distance from the area being treated and follow any specific instructions provided by our team. Ensuring that children and pets are kept away from the site until the removal process is complete is also crucial.

Bee infestations can pose several health risks, including the potential for stings that may lead to allergic reactions in some individuals. Prolonged infestations might also attract other pests, increasing the risk of disease transmission.

Beegone provides a wealth of educational resources aimed at helping you prevent future bee problems. These include guides on bee-friendly gardening practices, bee-proofing your property, and understanding the vital role bees play in our ecosystem.

Upon completion of the follow-up service, Beegone can provide a detailed certificate or report outlining the services performed, the current status of the bee removal, and any recommendations for future preventive measures.

Beegone offers comprehensive post-service support, including expert advice on bee prevention, access to educational resources, and assistance with any bee-related concerns that may arise after our service.

In the unlikely event that bees return to your property and you’ve chosen the pollen or honey option, Beegone will revisit your property to perform additional removal services at no extra charge, in line with the terms of our guarantee.

Beegone provides a unique guarantee that bees will not return to your property if you opt for our pollen or honey removal option. The length of this guarantee will be clearly stated on your quote, ensuring peace of mind and long-term effectiveness of our services.

The duration of a bee removal can vary. It can take up to 2 weeks, although in some cases, it might
be completed in just a few days. The timeline depends on factors such as how deeply the bees have
nested in the property, the extent of building material that needs to be taken apart and replaced,
and the amount of proofing work required to prevent re-infestation. We aim to complete the process
as efficiently as possible while ensuring a thorough and effective removal.

For commercial clients, we offer flexible scheduling, including after-hours and weekend services, to ensure minimal disruption to your business operations. Our team will coordinate with you to find the most convenient time.

If the removal process extends beyond the initial estimate, we will communicate any potential extra charges beforehand. Our aim is transparency and customer satisfaction.

The duration of the removal process varies depending on the infestation’s size and complexity. It can range from a few hours for simple swarms to a full week or more for larger colonies or difficult-to-access locations.

During the initial inspection, our experts will assess the location, size, and type of bee infestation to determine the best removal strategy. This process typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the situation. A report is then witten up on the findings.

Bee removal can be performed at any time of year, but it’s often best to address infestations in early spring before colonies grow larger. Early morning or late evening, when bees are less active, is ideal for scheduling removals.

Our team is available for scheduling from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday. However, for express or emergency services that need to be arranged outside these hours, please contact us, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs promptly.

Yes, if you need to reschedule your service, please contact us at your earliest convenience. We’ll work with you to find a new appointment time that suits your schedule. If we have already agreed on a date there may be an additional cost to move the service date.

For emergency bee removals, we aim to respond as quickly as possible, typically within a week, to address the situation and minimise any risk.

It’s advisable to book as soon as possible, especially during peak seasons. However, we strive to accommodate urgent requests and can often schedule services on short notice.

Yes, upon completion of our bee removal services, Beegone provides clients with documentation detailing the service performed, compliance with all relevant laws and regulations, and any permits or certifications applicable to the removal, serving as an official record of the ethical and legal management of the situation.

As a property owner, you’re responsible for ensuring the safety of occupants and the public, which may involve addressing bee infestations promptly.

The underlying legal and ethical guidelines for bee removal are consistent across locations. However, commercial properties may have additional health and safety regulations to consider, which Beegone fully accommodates in our tailored service plans.

Beegone stays informed of any changes in wildlife protection laws through regular training, membership in professional bodies, and collaboration with wildlife conservation organisations, ensuring our practices always adhere to the latest legal standards.

Our technicians are certified in pest control, holding qualifications that meet or exceed the legal requirements for wildlife management and pest control services in the UK.

Absolutely. Beegone manages all aspects of the permit process when required for bee removal, ensuring that our services are fully compliant with legal standards.

Yes, certain legal requirements may apply, especially regarding protected species. It’s important to use a live Bee removal comapny like Beegone to ensure that bee removal is conducted legally and ethically. Never use a pest control company which treats or sprays the bees at it will not work and can be illegal.

For bees that are endangered or protected, we follow stringent guidelines to ensure their safety and well-being. This often involves working closely with conservation bodies and employing specialist relocation techniques to preserve these vital populations.

Beegone adheres to all UK laws and regulations governing wildlife protection and pest control, including those specific to the removal and relocation of bees, to ensure our practices are environmentally responsible and legally compliant.

Accurate bee identification is crucial in the removal process as it determines the most appropriate and humane removal methods. Different species require different approaches to ensure their safety and the safety of those on the property.

Beegone provides various resources for bee identification, including online guides, educational materials, and access to experts who can assist with identification queries.

Yes, certain behaviours can help identify species. For example, honeybees are often seen in groups and are more likely to swarm, while solitary bees work alone. The way bees interact with flowers and carry pollen can also provide clues.

To safely observe bees, wear light-coloured clothing, move slowly and calmly, and avoid sudden movements. Observing from a distance with binoculars or taking photographs can also aid in identification without disturbing the bees.

A common misconception is that all bees look alike or that all yellow and black insects are bees. In reality, there’s significant diversity in appearance between species, and many wasps can be mistaken for bees.

Bees are generally more robust, with four wings, and carry pollen on their legs, contributing to their fuzzy appearance. Flies are sleeker, have only two wings, and their eyes take up a larger proportion of their head.

Yes, Beegone offers comprehensive identification guides for various UK bee species. These guides include photographs, descriptions, and behavioural traits to help you identify the bees on your property.

Signs include seeing bees entering and exiting a small hole or gap in your property, the sound of buzzing from within walls or cavities, and in some cases, the sighting of honeycomb structure.

Bumblebees are larger, rounder, and furrier than wasps. They have a distinctive buzzing flight and carry pollen on their hind legs. Wasps have a more slender body, a narrow waist, and are shinier, with more pronounced yellow and black stripes.

Honeybees are generally smaller and less hairy than bumblebees, with a more uniform colouring of golden-yellow and brown. Observing their interaction with flowers and their flying pattern can also give clues, as honeybees tend to visit flowers more systematically.