Spiders

 

House spider up close in the UK

Having problems with spiders?

Spiders in the UK are rarely a danger to health, but they can become a real nuisance in homes — especially for anyone dealing with arachnophobia. You will often notice increased activity in autumn when spiders move indoors searching for warmth and prey.

If you are seeing lots of spiders, repeated webs, or you suspect False Widows, we can advise on prevention and (where needed) apply targeted treatments to help keep your home spider-free.

Professional Spider Control Services in the UK

Most spiders in the UK are completely harmless — and outdoors they are useful predators that help control flies, mosquitoes and other insects. Indoors, however, spiders can be distressing, and some households experience recurring problems with large house spiders, frequent webbing, or sightings of species like the False Widow.

Why Spiders Come Indoors

Spiders are usually following their food. If your home has plenty of small insects (flies, moths, woodlice, and other crawling pests), spiders will often move in behind them. Activity often increases in autumn as temperatures drop and spiders search for warmer shelter.

Common UK Spiders You May See

  • House spiders: Often larger, darker, fast-moving, and commonly found in garages, sheds, and corners indoors
  • Garden spiders (orb-weavers): Usually outdoors and known for classic spiral webs in gardens and hedges
  • False Widow: Not aggressive, but may bite if trapped or provoked; bites are usually mild but can be uncomfortable

How to Reduce Spider Activity

  • Vacuum regularly, including corners, behind furniture and along skirting lines
  • Remove webs quickly to discourage spiders from settling
  • Seal gaps around windows, doors, pipework and vents
  • Declutter storage areas where spiders hide undisturbed
  • Reduce outdoor lighting near entry points (this attracts insects, which attract spiders)

When Professional Treatment Helps

If you are seeing large numbers of spiders, recurring egg sacs, or repeated False Widow sightings, it is worth speaking with a professional. Shire Pest Solutions can assess entry points, identify likely harbourage areas, and apply targeted treatments to reduce spider activity and prevent repeat issues.


Spider Control FAQ

Most spiders in the UK are completely harmless to humans. The False Widow is one of the few with a bite that may cause mild discomfort or allergic reactions, but serious health issues are extremely rare.
Spiders are drawn indoors in search of warmth and food, especially during autumn. They follow prey like flies, woodlice, and other small insects. Homes with clutter, poor lighting control, or other pest problems are more likely to attract spiders.
While spiders do not spread diseases or damage property, their presence can be distressing for those with arachnophobia. Certain species like the False Widow can bite if provoked, but this is uncommon.
House spiders tend to stay indoors and are usually larger and darker in colour. Garden spiders (also called orb-weavers) prefer outdoor environments and are known for their classic spiral-shaped webs, often seen in gardens and hedges.
Seal gaps around windows, doors, and pipework. Keep the home clean and vacuum regularly, especially hidden corners and ceilings. Remove webs and reduce outdoor lighting that attracts the insects spiders feed on.
Yes — a single female spider can lay hundreds of eggs in a silk sac. These sacs are often hidden in corners or under furniture. If not removed, populations can build up over time.
If you notice a large number of spiders, recurring egg sacs, or False Widows in your home, it’s a good idea to consult professionals. Shire Pest Solutions can assess the situation and apply targeted treatments to keep your space spider-free.

More About Shire Pest Solutions

Shire Pest Solutions is a trusted and local pest control company proudly serving homes and businesses across Oxfordshire and beyond. We have built our reputation on professionalism, reliability, and fast response times, specialising in the safe and effective removal of pests including ants, wasps, rodents, bed bugs, and more.

Our expert technicians hold full qualifications and use the latest tools and treatments to resolve pest problems quickly and safely—without unnecessary disruption. Whether you face a minor domestic issue or a large-scale commercial infestation, we design our services to meet your needs with minimal fuss and maximum effectiveness.

Based locally, we regularly assist customers in Didcot, Wallingford, Abingdon, Wantage, Witney, Newbury, Thame, Thatcham, and Stokenchurch. Our knowledge of the local area enables us to provide rapid call-outs and treatments that are suited to the unique pest challenges of each location.

At Shire Pest Solutions, we don’t just eliminate pests—we stop them from returning. We offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees, and we dedicate ourselves to customer satisfaction, making us the go-to pest control provider for homeowners, landlords, and commercial clients alike.

Contact us today to arrange a call-out or find out more about our pest control services across Oxfordshire and surrounding areas.