Beehive in your house? Here’s what to do

Why bees move in

Bees swarm when their colony outgrows its hive. The old queen and workers search for a new home—sometimes choosing your house as the perfect nesting spot.

Identify the bees

Honeybees (waxy hives), carpenter bees (drill wood), or wasps (papery nests). Call a beekeeper for honeybees; they are essential pollinators.

Suit up for safety

If removing a small nest, wear full protective gear—long sleeves, gloves, and face shield—to avoid painful stings and aggression from disturbed bees.

Best time to act

Spray or disturb hives only at dusk or dawn. Bees are less active and less aggressive at these times, reducing the risk of swarming or attacks.

DIY repellent sprays

Try soap-water spray to suffocate bees, or use peppermint oil and vinegar mix to repel them. Spray entry points and around the hive gently.

Vacuum with caution

Use a low-power vacuum only for tiny hives and only if trained. Otherwise, call a pro. Mishandling can trigger aggressive bee behaviour.

Avoid these mistakes

Never destroy hives in daylight, use fire, or ignore leftover hive materials. Clean scent trails with vinegar or citrus oil to prevent new swarms.

Prevent future hives