Who Is Responsible for Wasp Nest Removal?

Wasps are the guests you never want to see under any circumstances. They cause fear and can leave some very nasty stings on your skin without thinking twice.

It’s rather ironic that they appear in the sunnies of seasons, but that’s no coincidence. People love to eat fatty foods and consume sugary drinks in the sunshine. Unfortunately, those things attract the insects to your home.

Did you find an infestation? It’s only logical to wonder who is responsible for the wasp nest removal? Is it the tenant or the landlord and what rules are there on the matter?

Is the landlord or tenant responsible for a wasp nest removal in a rented property?

If there’s a wasp nest in your current place, it’s usually the landlord’s responsibility to take care of it. Generally, landlords need to make the place “fit for human habitation” according to the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018. That includes dealing with pests like wasps.

However, check your tenancy agreement. Sometimes, there might be specific clauses. For example, if the tenant is actually responsible for bringing the wasps. It’s easy to do that. Just leave the rubbish bins open with lots of food waste inside. You will have visitors in no time. On the other hand, if the wasp nest existed before you moved in, then it’s typically the landlord’s responsibility to remove it.

In some areas, landlords are legally required to take care of all pest problems, no matter what the tenancy agreement says.

Regular inspections can prevent pest issues. Landlords should check the property at least once every three to six months. Tenants, report any pest signs to your landlord immediately.

Should you ignore a wasp nest?

No. Never ignore a wasp nest. Wasps can build their nests in some pretty common spots like under the eaves of your house, in the attic, garage, sheds and wall cavities. Even the trees close to your home make a good spot. The longer you let them coexist near you, the higher the probability of health risks and structural damage to the property.

Wasps are known to be territorial creatures, and while they will not attack without provocation, they may exhibit aggressive behaviour if they feel threatened by human presence. It is important to note that the resulting sting can be quite painful and, for some individuals, pose a significant danger. Those with allergies to wasp stings are at particular risk, as reactions can escalate to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical treatment.

Even for non-allergic individuals, multiple stings or stings in sensitive areas can cause discomfort such as swelling, redness, and itching. Properly cleaning and managing the sting site is crucial, as failure to do so may allow bacteria to enter the puncture wound and lead to infection. These infections can range from mild, localized skin irritations to more severe conditions requiring prompt medical attention.

As far as material damages are concerned, you need to be aware that wasps can chew through wood and materials to build nests which can weaken walls and ceilings over time. Nests in attics can also disrupt insulation. This, on the other hand, may increase heating and cooling costs. And finally, large nests may retain moisture. This can result in the growth of mould and further structural deterioration.

Combine these factors. Now, you can easily see how a wasp infestation can make a property uninhabitable.

Will a wasp nest eventually go away?

While it’s tempting to wait for a wasp nest to disappear, it’s not the best strategy. Wasps generally do not reuse old nests. Most species abandon their nests at the end of the season. The surviving wasp queens find a new place to hibernate and then start fresh the next season.

However, there’s still a potential problem. While wasps don’t reuse the old nests, they might choose to build a new nest in the same location. This can make it seem like they are reusing the nests. Additionally, having an old nest around can attract new queens looking for a suitable nesting site, so keep that in mind.

DIY methods vs professional pest control

Dealing with a wasp nest can be dangerous, but there are some common DIY methods you can attempt if you are determined to handle it yourself.

First, start with protective gear and what not to do:

1. Protective clothing – Wear a beekeeping suit to shield yourself from stings;
2. Avoid ladders – If the nest is high up, do not use a ladder as you may fall if the wasps attack;
3. Work at night – Wasps are less active and aggressive at night. Use a red or amber light instead of a bright flashlight;
4. Plan an escape route – Have a quick exit strategy in case something goes wrong. With wasps, you must always have one.

Common safe DIY methods:

For detailed steps and more information on DIY methods, check out our guide on how to get rid of a wasp nest.

Why opt for professional extermination?

Given the risks of handling a wasp nest on your own, contacting professional exterminators is often the safest and most effective option. Here’s why:

What to do if you find a wasp nest on your property?

First things first, DON’T PANIC. Afterwards, follow the instructions below:

1. Keep your distance – Wasps can sense threats, and sudden movements might provoke them. So, maintain a safe distance from the nest, and you can actually avoid accidental stings;
2. Determine the nest’s location – Is it in a high-traffic area, or somewhere more secluded? This will help you decide if immediate action is needed or if it can wait for professional help;
3. Secure the area – Keep pets and children away from the nest area until it’s removed. If the nest is indoors or close to entry points, then you should seal off those areas. Hopefully, it will prevent the wasps from entering your home;
4. Contact professional exterminators – Reach out to reliable pest control technicians;
5. Prevent future nests – Once the nest is removed, take preventive measures to avoid future problems. Seal cracks and entry points around your home, keep garbage bins tightly closed, and regularly clean up any fallen fruit from trees in your yard.

Disclaimer: Every piece of information here is meant for informational and educational purposes only. So please, do not use this as a definitive legal advice. Fantastic Services encourages you to seek authority professional counsel before you decide to act upon what you have read. For more information, check our disclaimer.