As well as raising the temperatures, summer brings a surge in pest activity. Generally, pests are more active in this season due to increased warmth and food availability. This can lead to infestations that threaten public health, damage property, and harm a business’s reputation. As a result, for commercial properties from restaurants and offices, to warehouses and retail stores, the warmer months present a range of challenges when it comes to pest control. So what are the most common commercial pest problems in summer? And what can your business do about it?

So what are the most common commercial pest problems in summer?

There are a number of different pest problems that are common in the summer for businesses. These include:

• Flies- Flies are one of the most troublesome summer pests, particularly for businesses in the food and hospitality sectors. The warmer summer temperatures accelerate the fly life cycle, meaning they can reproduce rapidly. In environments where food is prepared, stored, or served, the presence of house flies, fruit flies, or bluebottles can be more than a nuisance, they pose serious hygiene risks by spreading bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella. The most common risk areas include kitchens, food waste bins, drains, and any area with standing water or exposed food. To prevent flies, you could consider: making sure that food waste is sealed and removed regularly, installing fly screens, and keeping doors closed or using air curtains.
• Ants- Ants become highly active in the summer, especially black garden ants which commonly invade commercial properties in search of sugary substances. Once a foraging trail is established, ants can return repeatedly, sometimes in large numbers. While not dangerous, their presence is unsightly and unhygienic, especially in food-related businesses. The most likely risk areas include kitchens, break rooms, vending machine areas, and around bins. To prevent ant problems, keep food sealed, clean up spills promptly, and seal entry points around doors and windows.
• Wasps- Wasps are highly territorial and become increasingly aggressive in late summer. Their stings can be painful and potentially dangerous to those with allergies, making them a health and safety concern in outdoor dining areas, warehouses, and office parks. A wasp nest on-site can deter customers and create liability issues for businesses. The biggest risk areas for wasp nests include roof spaces, eaves, sheds, and outdoor bins. By regularly inspecting for nests, covering bins, and removing food waste quickly. You can prevent the risks of wasp nests. However, you should never attempt to remove a nest without professional help.
• Rodents- Although often associated with winter, rodents remain a threat during the summer, particularly in urban settings where food waste is abundant. Warmer temperatures encourage breeding, and overflowing bins or poor waste management can attract them. Rats and mice carry diseases, contaminate food, and can cause serious structural damage through gnawing. To prevent rats from using your commercial property you should be sure to secure waste, seal holes in building exteriors, and keep food areas spotless. The most common risk areas include storage areas, refuse zones, warehouses, and food premises.
• Stored Product Insects (SPIs)- Insects such as beetles, weevils, and moths that infest stored products like flour, cereals, and grains become more problematic in summer. For food manufacturers, retailers, and bakeries, an infestation can mean costly product recalls, damage to brand reputation, and loss of revenue. To prevent these, you should be sure to regularly rotate stock, inspect deliveries, and keep storage areas clean and dry.

Preventing and resolving commercial pest problems in summer 

For commercial property owners and managers, being proactive about pest control during summer is essential. Pests can harm health, compromise safety, and damage customer trust. Integrated pest management (IPM), which combines good hygiene, regular monitoring, and professional treatments, is the most effective way to prevent and address infestations.

Hiring a qualified pest control provider, like us here at Wipeout UK, ensures compliance with health and safety regulations and helps maintain a pest-free environment all year round.

For professional pest control, you can count on us here at Wipeout UK. We are the number one choice for pest control in Preston and we offer a wide range of services. Why not get in touch to find out more?