Written by a Zeus Services Certified Technician
We treat spider infestations, including confirmed false widow populations, across every London borough.
How to Identify a False Widow
False widows are bulbous, glossy brown to purplish-black in colour with cream markings across the abdomen, often described as resembling a skull or cross pattern. Females measure roughly 9–14mm in body length, noticeably larger and more rounded than the common house spider. They favour sheltered spots — window frames, shed corners, air bricks, garden fences and behind guttering — and build tangled, irregular webs rather than the neat orb webs of garden spiders.
Are They Actually Dangerous?
False widows will only bite when disturbed or trapped against skin — they are not aggressive. A bite typically causes localised pain, redness, swelling and sometimes blistering, similar to a wasp sting, usually resolving within a day or two. In rare cases symptoms can be more significant, including fever, sweating, nausea or chest pain, and medical attention should be sought if symptoms escalate or spread beyond the bite site.
Why Autumn Is When You Notice Them Most
1. Male Spiders Go Looking for Mates
In late summer and autumn, male spiders of most species leave their webs to search for females, leading to a natural seasonal spike in sightings indoors — this alone doesn't necessarily mean an infestation.
2. Insect Prey Increases Indoors
As flies, moths and other insects seek warmth indoors during cooler months, spiders that feed on them often follow, particularly around lit windows and doorways.
3. Established Webs Become More Visible
Webs built over summer become more obvious once dust and debris accumulate, drawing attention to a population that may have been building unnoticed for weeks.
When to Call a Professional
A handful of spiders in a shed or garage rarely needs treatment. But a large, established population indoors — particularly if false widows have been confirmed, or if there are young children, pets or anyone with a known allergy in the household — is worth treating professionally. Effective spider control also targets the insect populations spiders feed on, since removing the food source is what actually prevents the population rebuilding.