Britons brace for a boom in wasp infestations

Aviva advises how to deal with unwanted guests as ‘wasp season’ begins

UK residents should prepare for an influx of wasps, as experts predict record numbers in July and August, according to new information obtained by Aviva.

Data gathered by the insurer reveals that JG Pest Control - which provides a pest control service for Aviva Home Emergency customers through a collaboration with HomeServe – dealt with almost 13,000 incidents of wasp infestations between April and October last year, with 54% of cases occurring in July and August.

The pest control service reports that wasp infestations in April and May 2021 were on a par with 2020. However, the inconsistent weather in June this year led to a fall in wasp enquiries, suggesting that record numbers could be expected in July and August.

Sarah Applegate, Head of Risk for Aviva General Insurance says: “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. Where possible, people should avoid interaction with wasps and leave them alone.

“But 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. Residents should also check that any control methods are designed to only impact wasp’s infestations and do not harm other insects or pollinators.

“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 - such as Aviva Home Emergency Insurance - which provide cover.”

Aviva has the following advice to identify and prevent wasp infestations:

Swarming insects: It’s pretty normal to see the odd wasp entering your home during the summer months, but larger numbers or a swarm indicate there is likely to be a nest somewhere nearby. To identify the location of a nest, 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.

A buzzing noise: Wasps buzz very loudly when building their nests. Often, you’ll 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.

Physical structures: 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.

How to prevent a wasp nest:

• 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.
• Install insect screens on doors and windows to prevent wasps from flying into your property.
• Use wasp pots - containers which attract and trap wasps - in your garden. These can be purchased from your local DIY store.

Authored by Aviva