Wasps
Queens start nests in spring; by July nests are large and workers are everywhere. Check sheds, lofts and eaves in May and June when nests are small. See wasp nest removal.
Ants
Garden ants come indoors for sugary food from late spring, and flying ants swarm on warm, humid days in July and August. See ants in the kitchen and flying ant day.
Flies
House flies, bluebottles and fruit flies breed in bins, compost and food waste. Rinse bins, keep lids shut and empty food caddies often. A sudden surge of flies indoors can mean something has died under the floor.
Fleas
Fleas thrive in warm weather. Keep pets treated and vacuum regularly, especially after returning from holiday, when dormant flea pupae can hatch all at once.
Bed bugs
Summer travel means more bed bugs coming home in luggage. See how to avoid bringing bed bugs home.
Bees
Honeybee swarms appear in May and June. They are usually calm; call a beekeeper. See what to do about a bee swarm.
Pigeons and gulls
Pigeons nest on balconies and under solar panels, and gulls nest on roofs. Proof before the season starts. See bird proofing.
Summer checklist
- Check sheds, lofts and eaves for small wasp nests in late spring
- Keep food covered outdoors and clear up after barbecues
- Rinse and close bins
- Treat pets for fleas
- Wash clothes from holiday luggage at 60°C
Questions and answers
When is wasp season?
Roughly June to September, with nests largest and wasps most aggressive in late summer.
Why are there so many flies in my house suddenly?
Check bins, food waste and drains. A large number of bluebottles indoors can also mean a dead rodent nearby.
Related pages
This page is general information, last reviewed on 19 October 2026. It is not a substitute for an on-site inspection.