Peak season
Late summer through fall, when males wander indoors.
Home / Pests / Hobo & House Spiders
Hobo Spider & Spider Control in North Idaho
Hobo spiders, giant house spiders, and wolf spiders are common in Inland Northwest homes, especially from late summer into fall. We reduce the spiders and the insects that feed them.
Know the pest
Spiders you are likely to see
Hobo spiders and giant house spiders are brown funnel-web spiders that build sheet webs with a funnel retreat in window wells, woodpiles, basements, and ground-level cracks. Wolf spiders hunt on the ground and often wander in through gaps under doors. Western black widows are also found in the region, usually in dry, undisturbed spots like woodpiles and outbuildings.
Most of the large brown spiders people find indoors in late summer and fall are mature males wandering in search of mates. Outdoor lighting that draws insects, clutter along foundations, and gaps around doors and windows all make a home more attractive to them.
Signs to watch for
Funnel-shaped webs in window wells, corners, or basements Large brown spiders in tubs, sinks, or along baseboards Heavy webbing around porch and exterior lights Spiders around woodpiles, sheds, and crawlspace openings Shiny, irregular webs in garages or sheds (possible black widows)
Where they hide
Basements, window wells, garages, woodpiles, and foundation cracks.
Bite risk
Black widow bites need medical attention. Research has not confirmed that hobo spider bites cause the wounds they were once blamed for.
How we handle it
Our approach
Spider control is part of our General Pest Control service. Learn about General Pest Control.
Step 1
Inspection
We look at where spiders are webbing and what is drawing insects to the home.
Step 2
Treatment
Targeted treatment around the foundation, entry points, eaves, and harborage areas.
Step 3
Prevention
Ongoing seasonal service and tips to make the property less inviting to spiders.
Common questions
Hobo & House Spiders questions
Are hobo spiders dangerous?
Hobo spiders were once blamed for serious bite wounds, but research since then has not confirmed that link. Bites are uncommon. Black widows, which also live in the region, are the spider to be careful around.
Why do I see so many spiders in the fall?
Late summer and fall is mating season for hobo spiders and giant house spiders. Males wander in search of females and often end up indoors.
How can I tell a hobo spider from a giant house spider?
They are hard to tell apart by eye. Both are brown funnel-web spiders, and giant house spiders tend to be larger with longer legs. Treatment is the same for both.
Where we treat hobo & house spiders
We serve homes and businesses across North Idaho and eastern Washington, including:
Dealing with hobo & house spiders?
Call or text and we will confirm the soonest available time for your property.