National hive
These notes are not intended to be onerous. They rely solely on goodwill and fair play. They are intended to help make a successful sale, without any misunderstanding or rancour. We always recommend members to buy local. Bringing in bees and hives from unknown sources can spread diseases.
National hives always sell better than WCB hives, which are often found to be in poor condition, and are difficult to move with bees.
Sellers must give potential buyers an honest assessment of the temper of the bees for sale.
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We recommend that hives of bees are only sold during the active beekeeping season, April to September. Prices in April will be higher than September.
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We urge sellers to contact Conwy Beekeepers (or their own BKA) before offering hives of bees for sale. We can help you find a local buyer. Please send us pictures and details.
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The seller should arrange inspection by the Seasonal Bee Inspector, before offering bees for sale. The SBI will only check the health of the bees. They will not give a sale price.
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The seller should advise the buyer of recent varroa treatment, and provide any hive records.
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Buyer and seller to agree condition of bees, combs and hives before the sale.
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We can only suggest guide prices. Buyer and seller should negotiate and agree a sale price. Prices in April and May for overwintered colonies will be higher than in late summer.
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Buyer and seller should agree what is included in the sale, and what may be left behind, eg. old hive stands, bricks, concrete slabs.
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Date by which the hives are to be moved should be agreed before the sale.
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Buyer to agree to buy the hives and bees as seen, at the agreed price.
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Payment to made in full by bank transfer before the hives are removed.
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Receipt to be given to the seller, with a copy for the buyer.
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Buyer to inform seller when the site has been cleared, and the sale is complete.
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Seller to advise Seasonal Bee Inspector of new owner’s contact details, with their permission.
- We would welcome any comments.
Compiled by Peter McFadden peterhoney914@gmail.com
Secretary, Conwy Beekeepers
Updated August 2024