iX5 Pest Control

Pest control services in Northampton, Daventry, Corby, Kettering, Wellingborough, Towcester, Brackley, Market Harborough and all surrounding areas.

Bee Removal

bee removal

Bee Removal Services

Bees play a vital role in our ecosystem, pollinating plants, trees and crops that we all rely on. In the UK there are over 200 species of bee, many of which are under threat. At iX5 Pest Control, we recognise the importance of bees and always aim to protect and relocate them wherever possible.

Our bee removal services are designed to balance public safety, property protection and bee welfare. Whether you’re dealing with a honeybee swarm in your garden, a nest in your loft, or bees entering through a chimney or wall cavity, we provide professional advice and safe solutions tailored to your situation.

How to tell bees from wasps

Whilst there are many different wasp and bee species, it’s easy to confuse bees with wasps or hornets, but the approach to control is very different.

  • Bees are generally rounder, hairier / furrier, and less aggressive. They are vital pollinators and should be relocated wherever possible.
  • Wasps are bright yellow, slimmer, smoother and more aggressive, particularly in late summer. They can sting repeatedly and are often more of a nuisance around food and drink.
  • Hornets are larger than wasps and can be intimidating, they are less common in the UK, but their numbers are growing.

If you’re unsure, don’t take risks — contact us for professional identification.

iX5 Pest Control

Additional Services

bee removal services, this image shows a temporary nuc

Why bee removal may be necessary

  • Safety first: Bees can sting but are not normally aggressive, but large swarms or nests in or near buildings can pose risks, especially for those allergic to stings.
  • Property concerns: Bees often nest in chimneys, roof spaces and wall cavities. If left unchecked, honeycomb and wax from honeybees can become problematic and attract secondary pests.
  • Ethical handling: We always consider relocation first. Our technicians work with local beekeepers and apiaries to rehome honeybees wherever possible.

Our Bee Removal Process

  1. Initial contact & survey
    We assess the species, location and risks to determine the safest and most ethical approach.
  2. Recommendation & advice
    Based on our survey, we explain whether relocation, removal or simply monitoring is the best option.
  3. Safe removal or relocation
    Where possible, we relocate honeybees to hives in a more suitable location. If removal is unavoidable, we act carefully and minimise disruption to your property.
  4. Follow-up & proofing
    Once the bees have been dealt with, we can provide preventative advice and proofing to help reduce the chance of further activity.

Seasonal advice

  • Spring & Early Summer: Honeybee swarms are most common at this time of year as colonies reproduce and search for new homes. Don’t panic — swarms are usually docile but should be collected by a beekeeper.
  • Late Summer & Autumn: Colonies are well established. Nests in walls, chimneys and lofts may grow larger and more active, increasing the risk of stings.
  • Winter: Bee activity is minimal, but honeybee nests may remain hidden in structures and will become active again the following year.

Commercial property considerations

Bee nests and swarms near schools, care homes, playgrounds, retail sites and business premises sometimes require urgent attention. Even though bees are generally docile, their presence in high-traffic areas can pose risks to staff, customers, and vulnerable individuals.

We work discreetly with commercial clients to:

  • Safely remove or relocate bees.
  • Provide clear documentation for Health & Safety compliance.
  • Recommend proofing solutions where possible.

Related Bee Services

Different types of bees require different approaches. To help you find the right solution, we’ve created dedicated pages covering the most common scenarios. Whatever the situation, our priority is always to balance customer safety with bee welfare.

Guidance on bumble bee behaviour, potential risks, and safe, non-destructive removal methods.
Best for: when you’ve spotted round, furry bees nesting in gardens, compost bins, bird boxes or roof spaces.

Information on honeybees in buildings and their removal; bee management and apiary services.
Best for: if you’ve noticed honeycomb, large swarms, or bees entering chimneys and cavities.

Quotes for live honeybee removals, helping homeowners and businesses plan with confidence.
Best for: those wanting transparent pricing and to plan ahead.

If you’re not sure whether you’re dealing with bees or wasps, you might also find our Wasp Pest Control Services page helpful.

Service Areas

We provide bee removal services across Northamptonshire and beyond, including:

Northampton, Milton Keynes, Daventry, Rugby, Market Harborough, Towcester, Brackley, Wellingborough, Kettering, Corby, Olney, and surrounding areas.

Why choose iX5 Pest Control?

  • Qualified, insured & BPCA-certified technicians with specialist knowledge in bee removal and relocation. We are also bee keepers and have our own apiaries.
  • Strong links with local beekeepers and apiaries to support ethical honey bee relocation.
  • Transparent, fixed pricing with no hidden extras — see our cost guide for honey bee removals.
  • Tailored solutions to protect both your property and pollinators.

Get in touch

Spotted a swarm or a bee nest on your property? Contact iX5 Pest Control today for safe, professional bee removal and advice.

Call: 01604 328545
Email: [email protected]
Or use our simple online contact form below.

iX5 Pest Control – Protecting People and Pollinators

Get In touch

Bee Removal FAQs

Most frequent questions and answers

What’s the difference between a swarm and a nest?

A swarm is a temporary cluster of honeybees searching for a new home, often seen in trees or bushes. A nest is a permanent site where bees are established.

Are bees protected by law?

Bees are not a legally protected species, but many populations are declining. Ethical removal and relocation are therefore always preferred.

Are bees dangerous?

Bees are usually docile if left alone, but they may sting if threatened. Large swarms or nests close to homes or schools can pose a safety risk, especially for those with allergies.

Can bees damage buildings?

Generally, bees do not damage buildings, but indirect issues can occasionally arise, and redundant nests or comb can attract secondary pests such as wax moths or rodents.

Can bees always be relocated?

Not always. Relocation depends on species, access and location. We prioritise relocation whenever possible, particularly for honeybees.

Will removing bees damage my property?

We use minimally invasive methods. If bees are inside a wall or roof, some structural access may be required, but we’ll always explain the process first.

How much does bee removal cost?

Costs vary depending on access, location and species. See our Live Honeybee Removal Cost Guide for typical pricing.

Do pest controllers kill bees?

Our policy is to relocate wherever possible.

What should I do if I see a honeybee swarm in my garden?

Keep your distance, don’t attempt to spray or disturb them, and call a beekeeper to collect them. Swarms are usually temporary but should be collected before they move into a cavity or roof space.

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