Wasps, Hornets, Honey Bees & Bumblebees in Hertfordshire – What's the Difference and When Should You Call Pest Control?

As the weather warms up across Hertfordshire, I start receiving more calls about "a swarm of bees" in gardens, lofts and communal areas.

Quite often… they aren't bees at all.

At Bespoke Pest Control, flying insect call-outs increase significantly from late spring through summer across Hertfordshire. Knowing the difference between wasps, hornets, honey bees and bumblebees is important – because not everything that buzzes needs treatment.

Correct identification always comes first.

Honey Bees

The Western honey bee is one of the UK's most important pollinators.

Honey bees are:

– Smaller than bumblebees

– Brown/golden in colour

– Generally not aggressive unless provoked

– Often seen swarming in spring

A swarm can look alarming, but it is usually temporary while scout bees search for a new home.

In Hertfordshire, swarms are commonly reported in gardens, hedgerows and occasionally on buildings.

In most cases, honey bees should not be destroyed. If a colony has settled inside a property structure, the correct route is usually contacting a registered beekeeper rather than chemical treatment.

If you're unsure, I'm always happy to advise before any action is taken.

Bumblebees

One common UK species is the Buff-tailed bumblebee.

They are:

– Larger

– Very furry

– Slower flying

– Generally docile

In Hertfordshire properties, bumblebees often nest in:

– Compost heaps

– Under sheds

– Soil banks

– Occasionally loft insulation

Most colonies naturally die off at the end of summer. In many situations, the safest option is to leave them undisturbed if they are not posing a risk.

Not every nest requires treatment.

Wasps

The most common call-out across Hertfordshire is the Common wasp.

Wasp nests:

– Grow rapidly through summer

– Can become defensive if disturbed

– Are commonly found in lofts, wall cavities, sheds and air bricks

Early in the season, nests are small and easier to manage. By late summer, they can contain thousands of workers.

If a nest is close to children, pets, entry points or communal areas in blocks of flats, professional wasp nest removal is usually the safest option.

Treatment is quick, controlled and targeted.

Hornets

In Hertfordshire we occasionally receive calls regarding hornets.

The native European hornet is large but not automatically more aggressive than wasps.

There is also concern nationally about the invasive Asian hornet, which poses a serious threat to UK bee populations.

Correct identification is crucial before any action is taken.

When Should You Call a Pest Control Professional in Hertfordshire?

You should seek professional advice if:

– The nest is inside your loft or wall cavity

– The nest is near doors, windows or rooflines

– Children or pets are at risk

– The insects are showing defensive behaviour

– You manage a block of flats or communal areas

For managing agents across Hertfordshire, nests in bin stores, roof voids or shared spaces can quickly become a safety and liability concern if left untreated.

Are Wasps More Aggressive Than Bees?

Yes – generally speaking.

Wasps defend their nests and can sting multiple times. Honey bees typically sting only when directly threatened and lose their stinger in the process.

Aggression usually increases later in summer as wasp colonies grow larger.

How Do I Know If I Have a Wasp Nest in My Loft?

Common signs include:

– A steady stream of wasps entering and exiting the same point

– Buzzing sounds in ceilings or wall voids

– Increased wasp activity around rooflines

If you notice these signs at your Hertfordshire property, it is best not to block the entrance hole or disturb the area.

Do You Remove Honey Bee Nests?

In most cases, honey bees are referred to local beekeepers rather than chemically treated.

Correct identification always comes first.

Frequently Asked Questions – Wasp & Bee Control in Hertfordshire

How much does wasp nest removal cost in Hertfordshire?

Costs vary depending on access, height and location of the nest. Most straightforward treatments are completed in a single visit. For an accurate price, it's best to send photos or request an inspection.

How quickly can a wasp nest be removed?

Treatment is usually completed the same day as attendance. Activity typically reduces significantly within 24 hours.

Is wasp treatment safe around pets and children?

Yes. Professional treatments are applied directly into the nest area and are targeted. Advice is given regarding temporary precautions if necessary.

Are hornets dangerous?

European hornets are not automatically aggressive, but any large nest close to living areas should be assessed professionally.

Should I block the entrance hole to a wasp nest?

No. Blocking entry points can force wasps into internal areas of the property and make the situation worse.

Final Advice

Not every flying insect problem requires treatment.

Part of professional pest control is knowing when to intervene – and when reassurance is the better option.

If you're unsure what you're dealing with at your Hertfordshire property, feel free to get in touch. Even a quick photo can often prevent unnecessary worry.

Pest Control Myths in the UK: What Actually Works (And What Doesn't)

Search online for pest control advice and you'll find everything from peppermint oil to ultrasonic plug-ins promising to solve rat or mouse problems overnight.

As a local pest control company covering Hertford, Ware, Royston and surrounding villages, we're often called after these "quick fixes" haven't worked.

So let's clear it up.

No scare tactics. No gimmicks. Just honest advice from someone who deals with this every day.

Do Home Remedies Get Rid of Rats and Mice?

Short answer: rarely.

Most DIY remedies might deter pests temporarily, but they do not eliminate an established infestation.

Rodents stay where there is:

– Shelter

– Warmth

– A reliable food source

– Safe access routes

Unless those factors are properly addressed, the problem continues.

Common Pest Control Myths (And the Truth Behind Them)

Myth 1

Does Peppermint Oil Get Rid of Mice?

Peppermint oil is one of the most commonly suggested "natural" mouse repellents.

The reality?

It may make an area smell pleasant for a short time, but it will not remove a nest or stop breeding.

If mice are settled in your loft or cavity walls, a scent alone won't evict them. Proper treatment and proofing is what solves the issue long term.

Myth 2

Will a Cat Prevent Rats or Mice?

We attend plenty of properties with cats – and rodents.

While some cats hunt, many domestic cats do not actively control infestations. Even a good hunter won't:

– Access wall cavities

– Remove hidden nests

– Stop rats travelling through drains

A cat is not a pest control strategy.

Myth 3

Does Bleach Down the Drain Kill Rats?

No.

Rats living in drainage systems are usually located:

– In damaged pipework

– In redundant or broken drains

– Beneath floors or within sewer connections

Bleach poured down a sink or toilet doesn't travel far enough or remain concentrated enough to solve the problem.

If rats are entering from drains, the correct solution is often investigation, sometimes a CCTV drain survey, and repairing the defect – not pouring chemicals down the plughole.

Myth 4

Do Ultrasonic Pest Repellers Work?

Ultrasonic plug-ins claim to emit high-frequency sounds that repel rodents.

In real domestic environments:

– Furniture blocks sound waves

– Rodents quickly adapt

– Infestations continue

If they worked consistently, professional pest controllers would use them instead of traditional methods. We don't – because they don't reliably solve infestations.

Myth 5

If I've Seen One Rat, Is There Only One?

Highly unlikely.

Rats are cautious animals that travel established routes between harbourage and food sources. If you've seen one, there's often more behind the scenes.

Early intervention is always easier – and more cost-effective – than waiting.

Pest Control Advice That Actually Works

Not all traditional advice is wrong. Some measures genuinely help.

1 –

Sealing Entry Points (Proofing)

This is one of the most effective long-term solutions.

Mice can squeeze through gaps as small as 6–7mm. Common entry points include:

– Gaps around pipework

– Air bricks

– Damaged brickwork

– Broken drain covers

Professional pest control isn't just about treatment – it's about preventing re-entry.

Control plus proofing equals a proper solution.

2 –

Proper Food Storage

Accessible food sustains infestations.

We regularly trace problems back to:

– Pet food left out overnight

– Bird seed stored in sheds

– Poorly sealed bins

Good housekeeping alone won't eliminate an established infestation, but it absolutely reduces attraction and supports treatment.

3 –

Leaving Wasp Nests Alone Until Treated

Attempting to spray, block or knock down a wasp nest can:

– Agitate the colony

– Increase aggression

– Push wasps into loft spaces or wall voids

If a nest needs treating, it should be done safely and properly.

Why Pest Control Myths Persist

Pest problems are stressful.

When you hear scratching in the loft at night or see a rat in the garden, it's natural to try whatever the internet suggests.

The issue is this: pests respond to biology, access points and structure, not trends.

Quick fixes rarely fix anything. In many cases, they simply delay proper treatment while the infestation becomes more established.

Why We Know What Works (And What Doesn't)

Over the years, we've attended hundreds of rodent, wasp and drain-related callouts across Hertford, Ware, Royston and the surrounding villages.

In many cases, home remedies had already been tried first , peppermint oil in lofts, bleach down drains, plug-in devices in kitchens.

The outcome is usually the same: the underlying issue hasn't been addressed.

Most infestations come down to one of three things:

– Unsealed access points

– Drainage defects

– Available food sources

That's not theory, that's experience.

We also carry out ongoing pest control and reactive callouts for local managing agents, landlords and property managers, where consistent, compliant and properly documented treatment is essential.

When you're responsible for multiple properties, guesswork isn't an option and neither are internet myths.

That same structured, no-nonsense approach is what we bring to every domestic customer too.

Professional Pest Control in Hertford, Ware, Broxbourne, Cheshunt, Royston, Hertfordshire, North London, East London, West London & Central London

At Bespoke Pest Control, the approach is straightforward:

– Identify the source of the infestation

– Provide honest advice

– Apply appropriate treatment

– Advise on proofing and prevention

No unnecessary contracts.

No scare tactics.

No national call centre.

Just experienced, local pest control backed by industry accreditation and decades in the trade.

Final Advice

If you're unsure whether a home remedy will work, ask.

Sometimes traditional advice has a bit of logic behind it.

But when it comes to rats, mice, wasps or drainage issues, proper diagnosis and treatment will always outperform guesswork.

Professional CCTV Drain Surveys to Stop Rats Entering Your Property

If you're hearing scratching sounds, finding droppings near drains, or facing repeat infestations, the problem may be lurking inside your drainage system. At Bespoke Pest Control, we provide specialist rat drain surveys and CCTV drain inspections across Hertford, Enfield, Hoddesdon, Ware, Potters Bar, and Broxbourne. Our goal is to help you identify the source of the problem and stop rats for good.

Why Choose Bespoke Pest Control for Your Rat Drain Survey?

We are local, qualified pest control specialists with extensive experience working on older drain systems across North London and Hertfordshire. Our surveys don't just treat the symptoms; they show exactly where rats are accessing your property. This way, we can ensure the issue is permanently fixed.

We don't guess.

We inspect, diagnose, and solve.

Areas We Cover

We carry out rat drain surveys and pest proofing throughout:

Hertford – town centre homes and surrounding villages

Hoddesdon – residential streets and industrial estates

Ware – historic and riverside properties

Enfield – Enfield Town, Enfield Lock, and nearby districts

Potters Bar – homes, shops, and commercial buildings

Broxbourne – town centre, residential, and industrial locations

If you're just outside these areas, get in touch! We often travel further for specialist drain work.

What Happens During a Rat Drain Survey?

Step 1: Property Assessment

We begin by assessing your property layout. We look for signs of rat activity around manholes, drains, and potential entry points.

Step 2: High-Resolution CCTV Drain Inspection

Using waterproof cameras, we investigate the full drainage line without any digging. This prevents disruption to your gardens, driveways, and business premises.

Step 3: Clear Report and Recommendations

After the inspection, we provide a clear report detailing our findings and recommendations.

Step 4: Targeted Repair and Proofing

We recommend and can carry out the right fixes, including:

Drain proofing

Sealing small cracks

Clearing blockages (if possible)

Installing rat-proof valves (where appropriate)

Every solution is tailored to your property and budget.

Benefits of a Rat Drain Survey

Stop rats from entering before infestations develop.

Protect older drains from further damage.

Meet hygiene and food-safety standards.

Prevent repeat pest problems.

Avoid expensive structural repairs later.

If rat problems keep returning, there's usually a fault underground. A CCTV survey can confirm it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Rats Really Get into Houses Through Drains?

Yes! Rats often travel through damaged pipes and defective joints. If there's a crack, open connection, or collapsed section, they can easily climb through and enter kitchens, bathrooms, and wall voids.

Do I Need a CCTV Drain Survey if Rats Keep Coming Back?

If rats return after treatment, there is usually an access point. A survey identifies the defect so it can be repaired properly, not just treated temporarily.

How Long Does a Rat Drain Survey Take?

Most surveys take 60–90 minutes, depending on access. Your report and recommendations follow shortly after.

Will a Survey Damage My Drains or Garden?

No. Our CCTV equipment is non-invasive and works through existing access points.

Do All Properties Need Rat-Proof Valves?

Not always. Valves are useful in some situations, but repairing broken drains is the priority. We only recommend valves where they genuinely add protection.

How Much Does a Rat Drain Survey Cost?

Costs depend on property layout and complexity. We always provide clear, upfront pricing before any work starts.

When Should You Book a Drain Survey?

Book a survey if you notice:

Rats or droppings near drains

Bad smells from sinks or outdoor drains

Slow-draining water

Recurring rat infestations

Catching problems early is nearly always cheaper and easier.

Need a Rat Drain Survey?

Bespoke Pest Control helps homeowners and businesses across Hertford, Enfield, Hoddesdon, Ware, Potters Bar, and Broxbourne stop rats at the source.

Call us today on 07919441895!

We'll assess, inspect, and give you a clear plan to fix the issue.

Understanding the Importance of Drain Surveys

When it comes to pest control, prevention is key. A rat drain survey is not just a reactive measure; it's a proactive step towards safeguarding your property. By identifying vulnerabilities in your drainage system, you can prevent future infestations.

The Role of Technology in Pest Control

Modern technology plays a crucial role in pest management. Our high-resolution CCTV cameras allow us to inspect your drains without any disruption. This means you can continue with your daily life while we work to resolve the issue.

The Cost of Ignoring Drain Issues

Ignoring signs of a rat problem can lead to significant costs down the line. Structural damage, health risks, and the potential for a full-blown infestation can all stem from untreated drainage issues. Investing in a drain survey now can save you money and stress in the future.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you suspect rats are making themselves at home in your drains, don’t wait! Contact Bespoke Pest Control for a thorough inspection. We’re here to help you reclaim your space and ensure your property remains pest-free.

Remember, a little prevention goes a long way. Let’s keep those pesky rats where they belong—far away from your home or business!

Rats their habits, issues, myths and fascinating facts

If you've ever spotted a rat in or around your home or business, especially in London and the surrounding areas, it's easy to feel concerned. These creatures are often surrounded by misconceptions, but understanding their behaviour is key to effective control and prevention. At Bespoke Pest Control, based in Stanstead Abbotts, we deal with rat issues year-round, so let's take a closer look at what you need to know.

What Do Rats Actually Do? Their Habits Explained

In the UK, the two most common species we encounter are the Brown Rat (often called the Common Rat) and the Black Rat, though the latter is much less frequent these days, particularly in London where Brown Rats dominate urban environments.

– Nocturnal by nature: Rats are most active at night, which is why you might hear scratching in walls or lofts after dark rather than seeing them during the day.

– Excellent climbers and swimmers: They can scale rough surfaces with ease and hold their breath for up to three minutes, one reason they often find their way into properties via drains or overgrown vegetation close to buildings.

– Social creatures: Rats live in colonies, so if you spot one, there's a good chance more are nearby. They establish hierarchies within groups and communicate using a combination of sounds, scents and body language.

– Constant gnawing: Their incisor teeth grow continuously (around 4-5 inches per year), so they chew on almost anything, wood, plastic, even small metal pipes, to keep them trimmed down.

The Real Issues Rats Can Cause

It's not just the sight of a rat that's problematic, they pose genuine risks to both health and property:

– Health hazards: Rats can carry a range of diseases that can be transmitted to humans, including Leptospirosis (Weil's disease), which is spread through contact with their urine. They can also contaminate food and surfaces with bacteria like Salmonella.

– Property damage: As mentioned, their gnawing can damage structural elements of buildings, electrical wiring (which poses a fire risk) and water pipes. In London's older properties, this can be particularly costly to repair.

– Reputation risk: For businesses, especially those in food service or hospitality, a rat sighting can severely damage customer trust and lead to enforcement action from environmental health authorities.

Dispelling Common Myths About Rats

There are plenty of old wives' tales surrounding rats, let's set the record straight on a few of the most widespread:

– Myth: Only dirty places get rats

Fact: Rats are attracted to food, water and shelter, not dirt. Even clean homes and businesses can be targeted if there's easy access to these essentials. In London, where properties are close together, rats can move between buildings regardless of how tidy they are.

– Myth: Cats are enough to keep rats away

Fact: While some cats may chase rats, most domestic cats aren't effective at controlling established colonies. Rats are often larger and more cautious than mice, and will avoid areas where they feel threatened rather than being deterred long-term.

– Myth: Rats will attack humans

Fact: Rats are generally shy and will avoid contact with people. They only become aggressive if cornered or protecting their young, attacks on humans are extremely rare in the UK.

– Myth: Poison is the best way to get rid of rats

Fact: While rodenticides can be effective when used correctly, they're not always the best solution – especially in areas where pets or wildlife could be at risk. Professional pest controllers will assess each situation and use a combination of methods including trapping, proofing and habitat modification for the safest and most sustainable results.

Interesting Facts About UK Rats

Rats might not be everyone's favourite animal, but there's no denying they're remarkable creatures:

– A single pair of rats can produce up to 2,000 descendants in just one year if left unchecked.

– Rats have an incredible sense of smell, they can detect food from great distances and are even used in some parts of the world to sniff out landmines and tuberculosis.

– In London, rat populations tend to rise in winter as the weather gets colder and they seek warm shelter indoors.

– Brown Rats can travel up to 300 feet from their nest in search of food, which is why treating just one area isn't always enough to solve a problem.

When Should You Call in the Professionals?

If you notice signs of rats, such as droppings (small, dark and spindle-shaped), gnaw marks, scratching noises or burrows near your property, it's best to act quickly. At Bespoke Pest Control, we offer tailored solutions for both residential and commercial clients across London and Hertfordshire, We'll carry out a thorough survey, identify how rats are gaining access, and implement a plan to eliminate the problem and prevent it from returning.

A year in pest control: Challenges, Successes, and Lessons Learned

As we bid farewell to another year, it's the perfect time to reflect on the challenges, triumphs, and ever-evolving nature of the pest control industry. From changing weather patterns to new pest behaviours, this year has been anything but predictable. Heres a look back at some highlights and lessons we've gathered over the past twelve months in pest control

SEASONAL SHIFTS AND PEST SURGES

Every spring presents its own pest-related challenges. This year, the changing weather conditions led to an earlier surge in ant infestations, as the wetter spring drove them indoors seeking dry shelter. Typically, summer is dominated by wasps, but this year was relatively quiet for them. However, I encountered more hornet nests than usual. This might be because customers were more aware of them due to media headlines about Asian hornets. In autumn, there was an increase in wasp call-outs that continued until the end of November. It seems wasp activity is changing, with nests remaining active longer than before. This could be due to warmer autumn and early winter temperatures, better-insulated homes, or a combination of both. Whatever the reason, the wasp nest season is extending.

THE RISE OF DRAINAGE – RELATED ISSUES

This year has brought to the forefront the critical importance of addressing rodent entry points, with a particular emphasis on those that originate from drainage systems. Recent studies and observations have indicated that approximately 80% of rat infestations can be traced back to various drainage-related issues, such as damaged or deteriorating pipes, improperly sealed openings, and open drains that provide easy access for these pests. The implications of these infestations extend beyond mere inconvenience; they pose significant health risks and can lead to substantial property damage if not managed effectively. In response to this pressing concern, we have taken proactive measures by launching a specialised drainage inspection service. This innovative service employs cutting-edge camera technology, allowing us to conduct thorough inspections of drainage systems without the need for invasive procedures. By utilising high-resolution cameras, we can assist property owners in pinpointing and diagnosing these hidden vulnerabilities that may otherwise go unnoticed. Our goal is to empower property owners with the knowledge and tools necessary to address these drainage issues before they escalate into more severe infestations or costly repairs. Through this initiative, we aim to promote a healthier living environment and ensure the integrity of our infrastructure against the backdrop of increasing rodent-related challenges.

INNOVATIONS AND TOOLS OF THE TRADE

Technology remains crucial in contemporary pest control, complementing traditional methods. As mentioned earlier, we now utilise an advanced drainage camera, along with other cameras for exploring small openings and trail cams to monitor activity in your loft. We are decreasing the use of rodent baits on-site, shifting towards a less chemical and more environmentally friendly pest control approach.

CHALLENGING CASES OF THE YEAR

Every year in the field of pest control brings its share of unforgettable and often quite dramatic cases that test both skill and resolve. For instance, one of the more memorable experiences involved dealing with massive hornet nests that I discovered hidden in sheds or precariously situated under the eaves of a house. The sheer size of these nests was daunting, and I must admit that during one particularly intense encounter, I wasn't quick enough to avoid a painful sting on my arm from an agitated hornet. The sharp, sudden pain was a stark reminder of the risks involved in this line of work, and it certainly added a level of urgency to the task at hand.

In addition to hornets, I have faced some particularly challenging rat jobs that have tested my problem-solving skills and persistence. One such job required me to crawl into the cramped, dark space beneath a floor to locate the elusive entry point through which the rodents had been infiltrating. The conditions were far from ideal, with limited visibility and the constant awareness of the potential for unpleasant encounters with the creatures themselves. Another job involved a more complex situation where six neighboring homes were grappling with a persistent rat problem that had lingered for several years. This situation required not only thorough inspections of each property but also a coordinated effort to address the issue comprehensively.

After a detailed assessment and the implementation of tailored strategies for each home, I am pleased to report that both of these significant rodent issues have now been resolved. The homeowners, who had been living in a state of anxiety and frustration, are finally enjoying the peace of mind that comes with being rat-free. Each of these challenges served as a powerful reminder that no two infestations are alike; each case presents unique circumstances and requires a customized solution for success.

This journey through the unpredictable world of pest control has reinforced the importance of adaptability and creativity in problem-solving. It is not merely about applying a one-size-fits-all approach; rather, it necessitates a thorough understanding of the specific pest behavior, environmental factors, and the particular layout of the affected properties. Every day brings new lessons and experiences, ensuring that the work remains engaging and never dull.

HIGHLIGHT OF THE YEAR

I had the opportunity to contribute advice in The Sun newspaper, where I discussed the persistent and troubling issues related to rat infestations in residential homes. This topic is particularly relevant as urban areas continue to grapple with the challenges posed by these rodents, which can pose health risks and damage property. My segment focused on practical tips for homeowners on how to identify signs of a rat problem, as well as actionable steps to mitigate the risks and effectively eliminate these unwelcome guests from their living spaces. This experience has been particularly pleasing for me as a small sole trader, as it not only elevates my visibility in a competitive market but also validates the expertise I have cultivated over the years. Being given the platform to express my opinions and share my knowledge in such widely read publications is an incredible opportunity that many in my field aspire to achieve. It has reinforced my commitment to providing quality service and has inspired me to continue advocating for effective pest control solutions. The recognition from these media outlets has not only enhanced my professional reputation but has also connected me with a broader audience who may benefit from the information I provide.

BUILIDING STRONGER RELATIONSHIPS

My job involves more than just eliminating pests; it's about establishing trust with my clients. Building stronger relationships is at the heart of what I do, as I believe that a successful pest control service goes beyond merely addressing immediate infestations. This year, I have concentrated on educating property owners about proactive pest prevention strategies, which are crucial in assisting them in safeguarding their homes and businesses against potential infestations before they even occur. By providing detailed information on identifying early signs of pest problems and implementing preventive measures, I empower my clients to take an active role in maintaining a pest-free environment.

Throughout this process, I have made it a priority to engage in open and honest communication with my clients. I take the time to listen to their concerns, answer their questions, and provide tailored solutions that meet their specific needs. This approach not only enhances their understanding of pest management but also fosters a sense of partnership and collaboration. The positive feedback I have received, not only through renewed and new contracts but also from some exceptional five-star reviews, has been a testament to the value of the efforts I've invested over the past decade running Bespoke Pest Control. Each review reflects the trust and satisfaction my clients feel, reinforcing the idea that when we work together, we can achieve lasting results.

I have also implemented regular follow-ups with my clients to ensure that the strategies we put in place are effective and that they feel supported throughout the entire process. These follow-ups serve as a valuable opportunity to discuss any changes in their property that may require additional attention or adjustments to our pest management plan. By maintaining this ongoing relationship, I am able to adapt our services to the evolving needs of my clients, ultimately leading to a more effective and comprehensive approach to pest control. This commitment to relationship-building not only enhances client satisfaction but also contributes to the overall success and reputation of Bespoke Pest Control in the community.

LOOKING AHEAD

As we move into the new year, the pest control world faces exciting opertunities with new challenges with climate change, changes in regulations surrounding the industry in the UK and further urbanisation and movement of people creating more opportunities for infestations, staying ahead of the curve will be essential. At Bespoke pest Control I will continue to focus on innovation, education and continued excellent customer service to meet these demands.

FINAL THOUGHT

I launched Bespoke Pest Control in December 2014, never imagining I would reach the point where I am today. It has been a journey filled with ups and downs—thankfully, mostly ups. I have consistently aimed to provide the best service possible to every customer. This journey has involved problem-solving, growth, and helping people restore peace of mind in their homes and workplaces. As I look back on not just the past year but the years before, I am proud of the work I have accomplished and excited about the upcoming year in pest control.

Here's to another year of keeping pests at bay and making a difference in the lives of all my customers.

Podcast

2020 Covid and pest control

Its been an intesting year pest control wise with the restrictions placed on us by the covid lockdowns and its affect on customers. As pest controllers we were deemed essential workers very early during the first lockdown and as such we have been lucky to work continually through the year. Some of our customers have not been so lucky but we as a business have offered support where needed and quickly adapted our working structures to help them where possible. Hopefully with the easing of lockdown restrictions coming very soon we will be back in to the pubs, restaurants and offices saying hello to familier and new faces.

Even with covid restrictions 2020/21 was a very busy time for us at Bespoke Pest Control.

Rats & mice unable to find food in their usual places moved to new territories which caused problems in customers homes and businesses that previously had no issues. We also found because customers were home more they were noticing mouse and rat issues in their homes. With the use of personal protective equipment we at Bespoke pest control were able to enter and treat all properties safely.

The wasp season was particually busy and we are hoping for another good season this year.

Bed Bug treatments were again up on the previous year even with everyone staying home. The issues we had this year was having the properties empty so we could treat all areas needed as so many customers were furloughed at home, but by working closley with our customers we were able to treat all homes where needed.

Cockroach treatments fell during 2020 and the early part of 2021, but we are still finding them in the most unlikley of properties and areas.

Pigeons continue to be a major problem especially under solar panels on customers homes, we have been busy fitting spike systems to the edges of the panels to stop the pigeons roosting and nesting on customers properties.

We have continued to take on more contract work looking after blocks of flats for managing agents, restaurants and other businesses as well looking after exsisitng contracts to a high standard.

As always we have continued to make sure that our service has been one we can be proud of as our reputation is everything to us.

Stephen Wales

A good year for the wasp

It looks like after a couple of bad years this season will be a good season for wasp activity, here are a few videos of wasp nests we have already treated this year.

Hugo Rat and the Lesser Cockroach

Hello, welcome to another blog by me Hugo Rat for Bespoke Pest Control. Where do I start since my last blog, it has been another good few months for us, we have been travelling up and down from Royston to Kings Cross and from Hackney to Maidenhead covering all kinds of pests. It has been a busy time for Wasps, Honey Bees and Bumble Bees, we always try our best not to treat Bees, Bumble Bees tend to move on from their nests at this time of year and Honey Bees can be left unless they are a real issue and we always try to get a local beekeeper to move them.

This little bug has been causing a bit of a fuss in a house in Hertfordshire we have been treating. After much discussion this was found to be a Lesser Cockroach (Ectobius panzeri), it is one of three native cockroaches to the UK the others being the Dusky cockroach and the Tawny cockroach. The Lesser Cockroaches are about 5 to 8mm in length and they over winter on the ground, produce young between January and April. The adults usually die off around April and May, but for some unknown reason they are infesting this house and flying in and around the living room. We think it has been to the very hot weather we have had recently.

We were also called out for this rather confident rat seen running around a customers garden in Ware in Hertfordshire. We inspected all areas of the customers garden and found where the little rat was coming in from and we have sorted the problem out so the customer can enjoy sitting in their garden again…..if it stops raining that is. On the hottest day of the year so far Stephen was all kitted out in his spraying overalls and mask to treat a caravan that was infested with Bed Bugs, it would not be an understatement to say that they were everywhere, in the bed, cupboards, sofas and wardrobes. I think Stephen must of lost about a stone that day, I felt sorry for him when he got back to the van (I'm not allowed on spray treatments as I do not have the right protective clothing and mask…yet)

I hope you have been enjoying my pictures on Instagram and Twitter, please follow me and my adventures and I hope you have enjoyed a little taster of what we get up to at Bespoke Pest Control

Hugo Rat

Pest Control

Rats Broxbourne

Cockroaches Broxbourne

Hugo Rat and the case of the mysterious rodents

Hello, let me introduce myself as this is my first blog for Bespoke Pest Control. My Name is Hugo and I am in charge of all advertising and social media posts for Bespoke, I will be keeping you up to date with all the latest news on here as well as my pictures on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Me on one of our many trips in to London

We have been busy over the last few months re designing our web site and taking on new clients not only in our local area in Hertfordshire, but also in Hackney in East London, Park Royal in West London and a couple of jobs in Maidenhead for rats. We have been particularly pleased that these new contracts have been gained on the back of recommendations from other clients and also the enthusiasm of Stephen the owner and technician of Bespoke Pest Control, one client said "I have never known anyone so enthusiastic about rats before".

We have recently taken over looking after the communal areas of a block of flats which has had over 20 perimeter boxes for rats & mice, when inspecting the boxes with the managing agents we found that not one of the boxes had been touched for what looked like a very long time by the previous pest control company. Since taking over the contract all boxes have been refilled and are now checked on a regular basis by ourselves and we are sorting out the rat issue that has been ignored previously.

We are now getting more and more calls not only for rats, but also bed bugs and also wasp nests. Bed bugs are becoming more and more of a problem especially in London and all problem areas of the property need to be inspected and treated thoroughly. If you have a problem with any pests please give Stephen a call on 07919 441895 or email to [email protected] and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

We at Bespoke Pest Control are also happy to be a part of the East Herts West Essex Business Links Networking group. We are a group of small business owners who are trying to help build a small business community in our local area helping each other find work and encouraging new business. We meet once a month in the evenings in and around the

Stanstead Abbotts, Roydon, Hunsdon, Ware area. Louise one of our founding members produced this video for our facebook page telling the positives of networking.

Thank you for reading and watching and I hope you will look out for our van and also take the time to find me on Twitter @HugoratBPC on Instagram at bespokepestcontrol or on Facebook at bespoke pest control or just click on the links below.

Hugo Rat

Pest Control

Rats Broxbourne

Cockroaches Broxbourne