Discovering bees in your chimney can be alarming – and rightly so. Whether it’s a swarm of bees gathering around your flue or an established beehive in the chimney breast, it’s important to act fast and responsibly. At Ashburton Chimney Sweep, we specialise in bee hive removal across Devon, helping homeowners deal with infestations safely and ethically.
As featured on BBC Spotlight, Tuesday 27 May 2025
Why Are Bees in My Chimney?
Your chimney offers warmth, shelter, and protection – ideal conditions for a bee hive. When bees swarm, they’re in search of a new home. Chimneys, especially those that haven’t been swept or capped in some time, are a frequent target. Once bees settle in, the hive can grow rapidly, causing blockages, attracting pests, and even producing honey that damages internal brickwork.
How to Get Rid of Bees in Chimney Safely
Firstly, never try to remove bees from your chimney yourself. DIY attempts can agitate the swarm, resulting in painful stings or structural damage to your home.
At Ashburton Chimney Sweep, our team is trained in bee hive swarm removal, working closely with local beekeepers where possible to relocate the hive rather than destroy it. This method ensures the protection of the bee colony and your property.
Our process includes:
- Full inspection of your chimney and flue
- Safe and humane bee hive removal
- Post-removal chimney sweep to clear residual wax or honey
- Advice on how to prevent future infestations
Whenever there are bees swarming in a chimney or bees swarming at a home, we always prioritise the safety of both our clients and the bees.
What Are the Risks of Leaving a Beehive in Your Chimney?
Ignoring a beehive in your chimney can lead to several problems:
- Blocked flues, which can stop your fire or stove from venting correctly
- Honey and wax build-up, attracting rodents and insects
- Structural damage, as hives expand inside chimney walls
- Stings, particularly if bees enter your living space
If you have bees swarming at home, or suspect that a hive is forming, it’s important to act quickly and contact a professional for bee hive swarm removal.
Call The South West’s Bee Hive Removal Specialists
If you’re searching for how to get rid of bees in your chimney, we’re here to help. Our friendly, experienced team operates across Devon and has extensive experience in safe, effective bee removal from chimneys.
