Bat box installation in Exeter
Professional bat box installation services in Exeter and surrounding areas. Local, reliable handyman - no job too small.
Price Guide
£25-60
Typical Duration
30 mins
Location
Exeter, Devon
Professional bat box installation to help support local bat populations. We'll mount it securely at the right height and position to give bats the best chance of using it.
Bats are brilliant - they eat thousands of insects, including mosquitoes and moths. Installing a bat box is a small thing you can do to support them, especially as their natural roost sites (old trees and buildings) disappear. We'll make sure it's mounted properly so it actually gets used.
Why Install a Bat Box?
Devon's home to several bat species, and they're all protected. Bat boxes provide safe roosting spots, especially in newer areas where there aren't many old trees or buildings. They're also just nice to have - watching bats at dusk is brilliant.
If you're doing building work that's blocked up old bat roosts, installing boxes as compensation is sometimes required. Even if it's not required, it's the right thing to do.
What's Involved
It's simple enough - mount the box on a building, tree, or pole at the right height (usually 4-5 meters) and angle. The tricky bit is getting it high enough and secure enough. We've got ladders and the know-how to do it safely.
Done Right vs Done Wrong
| Done Right ✅ | Done Wrong ❌ |
|---|---|
| Mounted 4-5m high minimum | Too low - disturbed or predated |
| South/south-west facing | North-facing and too cold |
| Firmly secured with proper fixings | Falls off in first storm |
| Away from bright security lights | Lit up like a Christmas tree |
What You Get
When you book bat box installation with Hembury Contracting:
| What's Included | Details |
|---|---|
| 🔧 Professional mounting | Securely fixed at correct height |
| 📋 Positioning advice | Best spot on your property |
| 🪜 Proper access equipment | We bring the ladders |
| 🦇 Optional box sourcing | We can get the box for you |
Plus:
- Advice on what species might use it
- Tips on maintenance (minimal, but worth knowing)
- Installation completed quickly and safely
- Can install multiple boxes in one visit
Pricing Guide
| Service | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Installation only (you supply box) | £25 | Half hour job |
| Installation on difficult access | £60 | High walls, awkward positions |
| Box supply + installation | £60-85 | Depends on box quality |
| Multiple boxes (2-3) | Quote | Discount for multiples |
Prices assume normal access. Very high or difficult positions may cost more - we'll quote accurately.
💡 Pro tip: Install 2-3 boxes in different locations if you can. Different designs suit different bat species, and having options increases your chances of them being used.
Perfect For Your Project If...
✅ You want to support local wildlife ✅ You're doing building work that affects bat roosts ✅ Your garden has mature trees or is near water ✅ You've seen bats around and want to encourage them
Why Choose Us for Bat box installation in Exeter?
Securely mounted at correct height
Positioned for maximum bat appeal
Support local wildlife conservation
Quick, simple installation
What to Expect
Step 1: Site Assessment
We'll walk around with you and work out the best position. Need to avoid bright lights, face the right direction, be high enough, and have a clear flight path. Takes five minutes.
Step 2: Installation
Get the ladder up, mark the position, drill and fix the box securely. Make sure it's angled slightly forward (10-15 degrees) so rain runs off. Check it's solid.
Step 3: Advice & Cleanup
Quick chat about what to expect, how to check if it's being used (droppings underneath), and whether you need to do any maintenance (you don't, really). Ladder down, job done.
🔧 DIY Tips
If you're doing it yourself:
🔧 Tools you'll need:
- Tall ladder (proper height for 4-5 meters)
- Drill and masonry/wood bits
- Appropriate fixings (coach screws for wood, masonry anchors for brick)
- Spirit level
- Someone to hold the ladder
📐 Basic steps:
- Choose position (south/south-west, 4-5m high, clear flight path)
- Check there's no wiring or pipes behind where you're drilling
- Hold box in position and mark fixing holes
- Drill holes and insert wall plugs if needed
- Screw box firmly in place, angled slightly forward
- Check it's secure - give it a good pull
⚠️ Common mistakes:
- Installing too low (cats can reach, bats won't use it)
- Facing the wrong direction (north-facing boxes are too cold)
- Not securing it well (they blow off in winter storms)
- Positioning in direct path of security lights (bats avoid bright light)
💡 Pro trick: If you're mounting on a building, just under the eaves is often ideal - right height, protected from worst weather, and usually faces the right direction. Just avoid being directly above windows or doors (bat droppings).
Rather leave it to a pro? No problem - that's what I'm here for. Give me a call.
Good to Know
Combine with: Bird box installation, garden maintenance, building repairs
Related services: Wildlife-friendly garden advice
Best time to install: Autumn or winter (before bat breeding season)
Patience required: Bats might not use it immediately - can take 1-2 years
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should a bat box be positioned?
South or south-west facing, at least 4-5 meters high, near trees or water if possible. Away from bright lights. We'll advise on the best spot on your property.
Will bats definitely use it?
No guarantees with wildlife, but if it's well-positioned in a good area, you've got a decent chance. Bats can take a year or two to discover and start using boxes, so be patient.
Do I need to provide the bat box?
You can, or we can source one for you. There are different designs for different bat species - we can advise what's best for your area.
Can you install it on my house or does it need to be on a tree?
Either works. Houses, garages, sheds, and trees all work well. Buildings actually often work better than trees because the temperature's more stable.
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