The Cost of Honey Removal: What Factors Affect the Price?

When you discover a hive on your property, your first thought is usually, “How quickly can I get rid of it?” But as soon as you start calling professionals, the next big question pops up — how much will honey removal cost?

Understanding the price of honey removal can be confusing because no two situations are the same. The cost can range from a simple service call to a more complex job that requires structural repair. In this post, we’ll break down the main factors that affect honey removal costs, why hiring a professional is worth it, and how to make sure you get the best value for your money.

Professional honey bee removal services in Florida with safe hive handling

Why Honey Removal Matters?

Before we dive into the cost factors, it’s important to understand why honey removal is necessary. When bees are removed but the honeycomb is left behind, the wax and honey can melt in hot weather, seeping into walls and attracting pests like ants, roaches, and rodents. Over time, this can cause property damage, unpleasant odors, and even mold growth.

That’s why a proper honey removal service isn’t just about taking away the bees — it’s about cleaning up the hive and restoring your property to prevent future problems.

1. The Location of the Hive

One of the biggest factors affecting cost is where the hive is located.

• Easily accessible hives – If the hive is in a tree, shed, or open area, it is much easier (and cheaper) to remove.

• Hard-to-reach hives – Hives hidden inside walls, attics, chimneys, or ceilings require cutting into structures, carefully removing honeycomb, and sealing the area afterward. This extra labor can significantly increase the price.

In short, the more hidden or complicated the hive’s location, the higher the cost will be.

2. Size of the Hive

The second major cost factor is the size of the hive and the amount of honey present.

• Small hives (new colonies): These may only have a few pounds of honeycomb and are usually quick to remove.

• Established hives: If the bees have been there for months or years, the honeycomb can weigh 50+ pounds and fill large wall cavities. This takes longer to remove, requires more cleanup, and increases disposal costs.

A professional will often inspect first to determine the extent of the hive before giving you an accurate quote.

3. Number of Hives

Some properties may have multiple hives in different areas, which means additional labor, equipment, and cleanup. Each hive typically requires its own removal process and safety precautions, so the cost adds up accordingly.

4. Structural Repairs After Removal

When honeycombs are located inside walls, ceilings, or floors, the removal process usually involves cutting open drywall or siding to access the hive. After the honeycomb is removed, you’ll need to have the area repaired and sealed to prevent new bee colonies from moving in.

Some bee removal companies include basic repairs in their price, while others may refer you to a contractor. Be sure to ask about this when getting a quote so you understand the full cost.

5. Live Bee Relocation vs. Extermination

Eco-friendly companies like Eco Bee Removal specialize in live bee relocation — safely capturing the bees and moving them to an apiary rather than killing them.

While live relocation can sometimes be slightly more expensive due to the extra time and care involved, it’s a more sustainable choice. It helps support pollinator populations, which are essential for food production and a healthy ecosystem.

If you care about saving the bees, this is an important factor to consider, even if it affects the cost a little.

6. Experience and Professional Equipment

Not all bee removal services are equal. Professional companies use specialized tools such as bee vacuums, protective gear, thermal cameras, and safe bee transport boxes.

A cheaper, inexperienced service might skip steps — leaving honey behind or failing to seal the entry points properly. This can lead to another infestation and more expenses down the road.

Investing in a trusted, experienced company often saves you money long-term.

7. Emergency or Same-Day Service

If you need urgent help — for example, if bees are swarming inside your home or posing a danger to pets or children — emergency services may come at a premium.

While same-day removal costs a bit more, it can give you peace of mind knowing the problem is handled quickly and safely.

Average Honey Removal Costs

Safe and affordable honey bee removal services with expert care

While prices vary based on the factors above, here’s a general range you can expect:

• Basic outdoor hive removal: $150 – $300

• Indoor hive with minor access: $300 – $600

• Large, complex removals with structural repair: $800+

Remember, these are only rough estimates. The best way to know your exact cost is to schedule a professional inspection.

How to Save Money on Honey Removal

You don’t want to sacrifice quality to save a few dollars, but there are smart ways to keep costs reasonable:

• Act quickly: The longer you wait, the larger the hive becomes and the more expensive removal gets.

• Choose a local company: Local professionals often charge less for travel and are familiar with local bee species.

• Ask about warranties: Some companies offer guarantees that cover re-infestations within a certain period, saving you money if bees return.

Why Professional Honey Removal is Worth the Price?

Attempting DIY honey removal can be dangerous — bee stings can be serious, especially for children or anyone allergic. Plus, improper cleanup can lead to lingering honey, melted wax, and more costly repairs later.

Professional removal ensures:

• Safe handling of bees

• Complete honeycomb removal

• Entry point sealing

• Reduced risk of future infestations

Think of it as an investment in your home’s safety and value.

Final Thoughts

The cost of honey removal depends on several key factors: location, hive size, number of hives, structural access, and whether you choose live relocation. While professional removal may seem like a big expense, it prevents property damage, pest problems, and health risks.

When you’re dealing with bees on your property, hiring an experienced and eco-friendly removal service is the smartest choice. Not only do you protect your home, but you also help preserve our vital pollinators.