Skip to content

How to Stop Wasps Building Nests in Your Roof or Loft

Are you seeing wasps in your loft this spring or summer? If you live in Surrey, wasps in loft Surrey is a common problem. Warm weather and easy access points make roof spaces attractive nesting sites. This article explains why wasps choose lofts, how to prevent nesting, the signs to watch for, and when to call a professional.

Why wasps build nests in lofts

Wasps look for sheltered, dry sites to build a nest. Roof voids and lofts offer warmth and protection from rain and predators. In late spring and summer, worker wasps search actively for food and safe nest sites. Once a scout finds a suitable gap, it marks the route and more wasps follow.

How wasps get into roofs and lofts

Wasps can enter through very small gaps. Typical entry points include damaged roof tiles, gaps in soffits and fascias, broken vent covers, and holes around pipes and cables. Even a gap of a few millimetres is enough for some species to squeeze through and start building inside the roof space.

Signs you have a wasp nest in your loft

  • Increased wasp activity around eaves, soffits or loft vents.
  • Wasps flying into a specific gap at the edge of the roof.
  • Noise from the loft in warm weather — a steady low buzz when close to the nest.
  • Small piles of chewed wood or paper-like material near the entry point (nest material).
  • Visible nest when accessing the loft hatch (do not approach an active nest).

Simple, practical prevention steps

Preventing wasps is easier and safer than removing an existing nest. Try these steps first:

  • Seal gaps and cracks around roofline, vents and pipe entries with suitable fillers or mesh.
  • Fit fine-mesh guards to loft vents and gable vents to block access while allowing airflow.
  • Keep doors and windows closed when not in use and repair damaged screens.
  • Remove or secure food sources: make sure bins are sealed, do not leave sweet food or drink outside and keep compost bins well managed.
  • Trim vegetation near eaves and remove old bird nests that might attract wasps.
  • Consider non-toxic deterrents where appropriate (smoke, certain plants or essential oils can help in limited outdoor areas).

summer pest control Surrey

What to do if you find a nest in your loft

Do not attempt to remove an active wasp nest yourself unless you are experienced and have proper protective equipment. Disturbing a nest can provoke many stings and serious allergic reactions. For safety, keep family and pets away from the area and avoid blocking exits that might trap wasps inside the house.

Professional pest control companies use the correct protective gear and targeted treatments to remove or treat nests safely. They can also identify and permanently seal entry points to stop re-infestation.

Professional wasp control in Surrey

If you suspect wasps in loft Surrey or you can see wasp activity around your roof, contact a local expert. At Go2 Pest Control we inspect the roof space, confirm the species and the nest location, and recommend the safest treatment. Our flying insect control service covers wasp nest treatment and exclusion work.

When to call for urgent help

If the nest is close to living spaces, if there are many wasps, or if anyone in the household is allergic to stings, call a professional immediately. If someone is stung and shows signs of a severe allergic reaction — difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat, dizziness — call emergency services straight away.

For non-urgent enquiries or to book an inspection, contact Go2 Pest Control for advice and a local visit.

Quick checklist: seal gaps, secure bins, fit vent mesh, and call a professional if you find a nest.