Pest control - Insects

We provide a free insect identifying service to householders on insect pests that might pose a significant public health risk.  

We also offer a service for the treatment of certain insect pests in buildings. 

The insects which we are asked about most often are wasps, bees, fleas and flies (see information below).

We also offer advice about ants, bedbugs, flies, browntail moths, earwigs, bristle tails (inc silverfish), booklice, beetles and woodlice.

See our 'Other insects' page for more information

How to contact us if you want help

If you think you have a problem and would like us to help, call Customer Services on 01730 234360.

Please see our Fees and Charges page for more information on how much it could cost

Insect identification service

If the insect was found in your home and may have public health implications we will provide a free identification and telephone service.

You need to put the bug in a rigid pot and put your name, address and telephone number with it. Freeze the insect for at least 24 hours to ensure it is dead and cannot escape and then bring it to us at the council offices in Penns Place, Petersfield.

The Pest Management Officer will identify it and telephone you back. They will also be able to tell you the best course of treatment for you to take. If appropriate we may be able to offer you one of our pest control treatment services. 

Please bear in mind, if we have to send the sample to a laboratory for identification, it can take several weeks for an answer to be received.

NOTE: We reserve the right to refuse to identify insects where the conditions above have not been met.

Wasps

We provide a wasp treatment service during the wasp season. This is usually between the months of May to October but subject to change according to local circumstances. Dates vary depending on demand and staff availability.

Find out more about wasps

Bees

We do not offer a service for dealing with bees or bee swarms.

Find out more about bees

Fleas

Prevention of fleas is quite simple for cats and dogs.  Please consult your vet who will be able to advise you on a suitable flea program. An additional benefit of some flea programs is that they often can prevent problems with ticks.

If you have a significant flea problem in your property, we do offer a treatment service.

Find out more about fleas 

Flies

If you have a problem with flies it is best if you speak to one of our Pest Management Officers directly to determine what species they are and the best course of action to take. We may also be able to offer a treatment.