The 3 Most Common Spiders Found in UK Homes

Whilst you can do a quick web search for wasp nest removal near me to find local pest control services for bugs that build nests, overwhelm, carry diseases or sting – for the most part, unless a problem is extreme, or you have a rare chance encounter with a potentially deadly exotic species that has somehow snuck it’s way in… spiders are unfortunately something you’ll have to deal with yourself. 

Luckily, the vast majority of spiders found in the UK are harmless. Not that that will cure you of your arachnophobia…

And whilst the news that they’re harmless may comfort you briefly, just a bit of bad news to keep you aware – September is known as “spider season”.

So, in recognition of that fact, here are three of the most common spiders found in UK homes and some facts about them…

Why Is September Spider Season?

September is dubbed spider season as you’re more likely to spot arachnids big and small in your home at this time of year than any other.

The reason for this is that as the weather cools down, spiders will head for warmer indoor environments. They’ll also be in search of mates during this time.

One benefit of having spidery visitors means you’re less likely to see any other kinds of pests such as little annoying flies, as this is what spiders famously feast on, giving you a free form of pest control – albeit in the form of another unsettling pest.

The Spiders You’re Most Likely to Encounter

There are over 650 species of spiders found in the UK, but don’t worry, only a handful (ew) of those species are commonly found invading your home. Here are the most common ones:

House Spider

Judging by its name, there should be no surprise that the house spider is commonly found in… houses. 

Unfortunately, they are also among the biggest spiders you’re likely to encounter in your home. Other than their size, which includes a maximum 12cm long hairy leg span, they can be identified by their brown body which features distinctive markings.

The sciency sounding bit – they are part of the Tegenaria genus (with the term ‘genus’ being a more specific categorisation than species). This genus can be found in much of the Northern Hemisphere except for Japan and Indonesia – lucky them!

More bad news for phobics – in fact if you are that phobic maybe you shouldn’t be reading this and get someone else to take care of your spider problem for you – but this genus is known as fast running.

They are also known as funnel weavers, which basically means they make webs with a funnel shaped entrance.

So where are they most likely to be found in and around your house? Lofts, basements, and sheds are where they commonly head for. They’ll build their large webs in corners here, but may be found in other undisturbed areas of your home.

Behaviour wise, these spiders are not aggressive, they can bite but rarely do and aren’t poisonous to humans. They can poison and catch prey like smaller insects but the venom is mild and not harmful to a human. At worst, a bite may cause a minor irritation like a gnat bite but isn’t dangerous. 

The most alarming thing about these spiders are probably their size and the sudden movements they can make. You might not be a fan of their big webs either…

Cellar Spider

Also known as the Daddy Longlegs, these spiders’ small body and long thin legs may freak you out slightly less than a thick hairy arachnid. 

They can be pale yellow, light brown, or grey in colour. As the cellar name might imply, they prefer damp, dark environments – such as cellars, basements, garages, and occasionally bathrooms.

Their webs are loose and irregularly constructed but easy to remove. Cellar spiders are often found hanging upside down from them. 

Despite the stories of the Daddy Longlegs having the most deadly poison but no teeth to administer it, this is completely untrue and they are harmless to humans. They do however prey on fellow spiders, even ones bigger than them!

False Widow Spider

Similar in appearance to the notorious black widow, luckily a false widow’s bite can only cause mild discomfort and localised pain.

False widows have dark coloured, bulbous bodies which may feature markings of a cream colour. They prefer dry shelter and build messy webs. Again, other than the occasional appearance in your home, sheds, garages, and lofts are common habitats for this species. 

Luckily, they are generally shy and will try to avoid contact with humans (yay).

Final Thoughts

These are the three most common types of spiders that are likely to be discovered in various places on your property. Keeping a good cleaning routine, sealing gaps and cracks, and even spraying strong smelling essential oils can keep them at bay. Know thy enemy as they say…