While some local beekeepers may offer free removal for accessible swarms, most established hives—especially those inside structures—require a licensed professional. Beekeeper services are limited, and relying on them alone may delay proper removal and increase property risk.
When bees show up on your property, one of the first things you might hear is, “Call a local beekeeper—they’ll take them for free.” While this advice is well-intentioned, it’s not always accurate or realistic. Here’s what you need to know before depending on a beekeeper for bee removal.
When Beekeepers May Help for Free
1. Swarms in Open, Accessible Spaces
If there’s a visible swarm hanging from a tree branch, fence, or shrub—and it’s easy to reach without ladders or tools—some local beekeepers may be happy to collect the bees for free or for a small donation. These swarms are valuable to beekeepers, who often rehome them in their apiaries.
2. Immediate Availability
Beekeepers who do offer free removal often have limited time, especially during peak swarm season. They may not respond immediately, and waiting too long can lead to the swarm relocating—or worse, settling inside your home.
When You’ll Need a Professional Removal Service
1. Hives Inside Walls, Roofs, or Attics
Once bees have entered a structure and started building a hive, the job becomes more complex. Beekeepers are usually not equipped—or insured—to open walls, remove building materials, or perform post-removal cleanup.
2. Aggressive Colonies or Difficult Locations
Hives located near electrical wiring, in high or dangerous spots, or involving particularly defensive bees should always be handled by licensed professionals with the right gear and training.
3. Legal or Insurance Requirements
If bees pose a public safety risk—like near schools, businesses, or rental properties—many cities require a licensed and insured removal company. A hobbyist beekeeper won’t meet these legal standards.
4. Full Cleanup and Repair
After bee removal, any leftover honeycomb or hive material needs to be extracted to avoid attracting pests or causing structural issues. Most beekeepers do not offer this service. Professional removal includes full cleanup and recommendations for sealing or repair.
The Bottom Line: It Depends on the Situation
Beekeepers can be a great resource for simple swarm collection in open areas, but they’re not a replacement for professional services when bees are inside your home or structure. Delaying action while looking for free help can make the situation worse—and more expensive to fix.
What Tyler’s Bee Removal Offers That Beekeepers Don’t
At TylersBeeRemoval.com, we provide full-service removal, including:
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Identification of bee type and hive location
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Safe, humane removal and relocation when possible
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Interior and exterior hive extraction
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Cleanup, sealing, and prevention guidance
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Fast, reliable service with proper licensing and insurance
Wondering Whether You Need a Beekeeper or a Pro? We’ll Tell You.
Call us for a quick consultation. We’ll assess your situation and recommend the best next step—whether it’s us or someone in the local beekeeping community.
