The GEM Guide to Wasps in Ashford and Kent
Wasps are one of the most recognised insects in the UK. While they play a role in controlling garden pests, wasps quickly become a problem when they build nests near homes, schools, pubs or businesses. Their painful sting and aggressive nature make them a real threat during the summer months. GEM Services, based in Ashford and serving all of Kent, offers fast, discreet and fully insured wasp nest removal for both homes and commercial properties.
What Are Wasps?
There are several species of wasp in the UK, but the common wasp (Vespula vulgaris) and the German wasp (Vespula germanica) are the ones you’re most likely to see.
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Active between April and September.
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Nests begin with a single queen and can grow to thousands of workers.
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They build papery nests from chewed wood and saliva.
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Common nesting sites include lofts, wall cavities, sheds, garages and trees.
Why Are Wasps a Problem?
Although they do help control other insects, wasps quickly become a nuisance and even a danger:
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Stings are painful and can be life-threatening to those with allergies.
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Aggressive when threatened – disturbing a nest can trigger swarms.
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Disruption to businesses such as pubs, cafes and outdoor venues.
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Property issues – nests can grow in awkward or hidden spaces.
Signs of a Wasp Nest
Spotting a wasp problem early makes treatment easier and safer. Look out for:
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Large numbers of wasps entering and leaving the same spot.
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A visible papery nest in a shed, loft, roof space or tree.
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Scratching or buzzing sounds inside walls or ceilings.
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Wasps becoming aggressive near bins, food areas or gardens.
How to Prevent Wasps
While it’s impossible to completely stop wasps in summer, you can reduce the chances of them nesting nearby:
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Keep outdoor bins closed tightly.
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Avoid leaving sweet food and drinks outside.
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Seal small gaps in roofs, soffits and walls.
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Fit insect screens if windows are left open in summer.
Professional Wasp Control in Ashford & Kent
Attempting DIY nest removal is dangerous — wasps will defend their colony aggressively. Aerosols and sprays rarely work on established nests, and leaving a nest untreated can cause the colony to grow rapidly.
At GEM Services:
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We’re fully insured and highly experienced.
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We offer same-day call-outs where possible.
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Our service is fast, discreet and effective.
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We help both residential and commercial customers.
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We provide honest advice without pushy sales.
If you suspect a wasp nest on your property, contact GEM Services today.
Related Pest Guides
Looking for more pest advice? Explore our other guides below:
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Rat Information in Ashford and Kent – Discover the risks rats pose to homes and businesses, and how to spot an infestation.
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Mouse Information in Ashford and Kent – Learn the signs of a mouse problem and how to keep them out of your property.
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Flea Information in Ashford and Kent – Find out how fleas spread, their impact on pets and people, and how to prevent them.
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Bedbug Information in Ashford and Kent – Understand how bedbugs spread, what to look for, and why quick action is important.