When bees, wasps, or hornets establish a hive inside walls, ceilings, soffits, or other inaccessible structural voids, traditional removal is not always possible. In these situations, Hive Treatment—not physical removal—is the appropriate solution. Hive Treatments are performed by Southern Pest Management when a hive cannot be safely accessed for complete removal without major structural disturbance.

Hive Treatments are most commonly used when the nest is located deep inside wall voids, masonry, or enclosed framing where cutting into the structure is not practical or advised. These services are regulated under our Structural Pest Control License and allow for targeted treatment of the hive itself, including elimination of the queen.

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(678) 648-6397

Hive Treatments fall under pest control because they involve EPA-regulated products and professional application methods designed to neutralize the hive internally. Unlike wildlife cut-outs, no physical removal of the nest structure is performed.

When a hive can be safely accessed and removed, that service is handled by our wildlife division, Southern Wildlife Management, using physical removal and clean-out methods. This page focuses exclusively on treatment scenarios where removal is not feasible.

When a hive is suspected inside a structure, our technician first confirms activity by identifying flight paths and entry points. Once confirmed, we determine whether the hive is accessible. If it is not accessible, we apply professional-grade treatment directly into the hive cavity to eliminate the queen and collapse the colony.

This is not a surface spray. Proper hive treatment requires penetrating the hive itself. Spraying only the entrance can force insects deeper into the structure and create interior infestations, which is why professional application is critical.

Homeowners often notice a steady stream of insects entering and exiting the same opening, increased indoor activity, or persistent buzzing sounds inside walls or ceilings. These signs typically indicate an established hive rather than random insect activity.

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(678) 648-6397

After treatment, it is normal to see lingering activity for a short period as remaining insects exit the structure. In most cases, the hive collapses once the queen is eliminated. Hunters may return temporarily, but without an active queen, the colony cannot rebuild.

If physical removal is later required or becomes accessible, the situation is referred to Southern Wildlife Management for proper hive removal and clean-out.

If you suspect a hive inside your structure and are unsure whether it can be removed or must be treated, call first. We will help determine whether Hive Treatment (pest control) or Hive Removal (wildlife service) is the correct path before any action is taken.

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(678) 648-6397

How do I know if I have a hive inside my home or building?

A steady flight path in and out of the same opening, frequent insect activity, or multiple bees, wasps, or hornets appearing indoors usually indicates a hive inside a wall, ceiling, or void.

Is treating a hive different from removing a hive?

Yes. Hive treatment is used when the hive cannot be safely accessed for removal. Removal requires physical access, while treatment uses targeted pesticides to eliminate the colony inside the structure.

Why can’t I just spray the entrance myself?

Spraying the entrance rarely reaches the queen and often forces the insects deeper into the wall, increasing the risk of them entering the living space.

What happens if a hive is left untreated inside a wall?

The hive can continue growing, cause structural damage, attract ants, roaches, and rodents, and increase the risk of stings inside the home.

Are hive treatments safe for people and pets?

Yes, when performed by a licensed pest control professional using EPA-regulated products and proper application methods.

Will the insects come back after treatment?

Some foragers may return temporarily, but once the queen is eliminated the hive will collapse and activity will stop.

Do you treat bee, wasp, and hornet hives the same way?

No. Treatment methods vary depending on the species, hive location, and accessibility of the structure.

Can hive treatment be done without cutting into walls?

Yes. Hive treatments are specifically designed for situations where cutting into walls, ceilings, or siding is not practical or advisable.

What time of year are hive problems most common?

Hive activity is most common during warmer months when colonies are expanding and foraging heavily.

Who should handle hive treatments inside structures?

A licensed pest control professional with experience in structural hive treatments is best equipped to resolve the issue safely and effectively.