April 2018

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large swarms of insects near a window or other light source. Those insects could be flying ants or they could be termites. The other key sign of termites are mud tubes. Termites build tubes that function like enclosed bridges so they are able to reach their food source (wood) from the ground without exposure to the ele- ments or predators. These tell-tale struc- tures are typically found in basements, crawl spaces, or on the lowest floors of a structure. A few suggestions to avoid termites: • Avoid direct soil to wood contact. Don’t make life easy for them! • Keep groundwater and rainwater away from your property. Gutters and downspouts must be property functioning and are not clogged. Water collecting around build- ings attracts termites, ants, and mosquitoes. Also, clogged gutters and standing water can cause wood rot and can, damage fascia boards and shingles. • Crawl spaces are trouble spots for wood-destroying insects including carpenter ants and termites because of their moisture and high humidity. Consider the only long-term solution: encapsulation and dehumidification of vented crawl spaces. • Schedule an annual termite inspec- tion with a pest control profession- al. If your property sustained any damage during the winter months or took on water, you could be at an increased risk for termites. Wood-Boring “Carpenter” Insects: Bees and Ants Unlike termites, the “carpenter” insects do not actually consume wood. CONT I NU E S ON PAGE 28

Who canYOUR Association count on today for guidance in Transition and Construction Defect Litigation?

A Professional Corporation

Hueston McNulty, P.C. Defense and General Counsel Serving New Jersey, New York & Pennsylvania N Value–Experience–Quality We provide our Association clients with qual- ity and value.We strive to solve the problem– resolve the issue–and make life easier for our Associations and their property managers. Samuel J. McNulty, Esq. smcnulty@huestonmcnulty.com /www.huestonmcnulty.com Tel: 973-377-0200 / Fax: 973-377-6328 Florham Park - Sparta - Toms River - Philadelphia - Manhattan

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