Wasp warning for July and August after inconsistent weather so far this year

Households may need to brace themselves for an influx of wasps, according to an insurer.

Aviva warned that the inconsistent weather so far this year could lead to a surge in wasp problems in July and August.

It said that JG Pest Control – which provides a pest control service for Aviva Home Emergency customers through a collaboration with HomeServe – dealt with nearly 13,000 incidents of wasp infestations between April and October last year. More than half (54%) of cases happened in July and August.

The pest control service reported that inconsistent weather in June 2021 led to a fall in wasp-related inquiries – suggesting the numbers could shoot up in July and August.

Sarah Applegate, head of risk for Aviva General Insurance, said: “Wasp season typically begins around the end of June and peaks throughout July and August.

“The unsettled weather during June meant that wasp infestations appear to be slightly lower this year – which could mean an even bigger influx of incidents over the rest of the summer.

“Wasps can be a worry to residents, so we’d urge people to take steps to avoid attracting them and be on their guard for any signs of an infestation.

“If anyone does encounter a wasp infestation in their home, we’d recommend that the safest and most sensible course of action would be to contact a professional pest control company or their insurer if they have suitable cover. They will be able to treat and eliminate the wasps.”

She added: “Most home insurance policies do not cover wasp infestations as part of their standard terms. However, there are special policies available and certain add-ons which provide cover.”

Here are Aviva’s tips for identifying and preventing problems with wasps:

– It is normal to see the odd wasp entering a home during the summer months, but larger numbers or a swarm indicate there is likely to be a nest somewhere nearby.

– To find the nest location, carefully watch the flight path of the returning wasps to your property, garden, garage or shed. This is much easier to see in the warmer summer months as the wasps will be far more active.

– Wasps buzz very loudly when building their nests. Often you will be able to hear signs of activity. If you are unable to see a nest, continuous loud buzzing would suggest a hidden wasp nest is on the property or in the loft.

– A wasps’ nest is usually brown or grey in colour and can resemble a rugby ball or swirled balloon. The swirls are visible on the outside of the nest and an entry point can usually be seen on the bottom of the nest.

– To help prevent wasps nesting, carry out regular property checks to ensure all cracks and crevices on the property are sealed. Ensure all external rubbish bins have securely fitted lids and compost heaps are emptied as regularly as possible.