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There has been a lot of talk lately about the 40 Year Recertification of Buildings in Florida

There has been a lot of talk lately about the 40 Year Recertification of Buildings in Florida

  • Posted: Jun 29, 2021
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There has been a lot of talk lately about the 40 Year Recertification of Buildings in Florida

The truth be told the law that requires recertifications after 40 years and then again every 10 years after that is not a state law. or Miami/Dade County and Broward County law.

The law was first put in place by Miami Dade county in 2001 with Broward County essentially copying the Miami/Dade law in 2006.

The process is primarily a creature of Miami-Dade and Broward counties. It’s an inspection intended to ensure buildings are structurally and mechanically safe and intact as they age.

It requires an engineer to do a study of the building based on its structure, electrical, plumbing, and so on, the study is going to tell, what’s wrong with the building. In south Florida that often means issues with concrete and other structural systems. Living in paradise might be great for people but, sun, wind, salt air, and hurricanes takes a toll on buildings. Regular maintenance painting, waterproofing, and other repairs can slow the toll but not eliminate it.

To learn more, check out https://www.broward.org/CodeAppeals/Documents/40YBSI-INFO-Rev.6-15.pdf

 

“Why are the light bulbs in my fountain blowing out?”  By: Allstate Resource Management

“Why are the light bulbs in my fountain blowing out?” By: Allstate Resource Management

  • Posted: Jun 28, 2021
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“Why are the light bulbs in my fountain blowing out?”

By: Allstate Resource Management

Fountains are a great way to add visual appeal to the landscape and the stirring water is relaxing and tranquil to hear. In addition to their aesthetic qualities, fountains also add a great deal of oxygen into the pond as the tiny droplets make contact with the air and fall back into the pond. But do pond water fountains provide enough aeration? Similar to choosing an aeration system, determining if a fountain is right for your pond will depend on the depth, shape, and size.

Subsurface aeration, like the Pond Aeration Systems, are recommended for deeper ponds to provide complete circulation. For these units, the air is pushed through diffuser plates positioned at the bottom of the pond. As the air bubbles rise, oxygenated water from the surface moves to the bottom, creating a healthy aerobic pond ecosystem.

Allstate Resource Management can add beauty and function to your waterways. Our experts will design the ideal fountain or aeration system for your lake or pond. Floating fountains with decorative spray patterns help to beautify highly visible waterways while assisting nature with many biological benefits. Increased dissolved oxygen levels help to sustain fish populations, assist in controlling undesirable bacteria, and improve the overall health of a waterway system. Bottom diffuser aeration systems help to speed the decomposition of organic sediments, improve circulation, and reduce the potential for fish kills in a water-body.

 

We are often asked, “Why do the fountain bulbs burn out with such frequency?”

The answer may be easier to explain by comparing a fountain that is a few years old with an automobile that has been driven for 100,000 miles.  If you put new tires that are rated for 50,000 miles on an older car which has worn shock absorbers, soft springs, and is out of alignment, the tires may only last for 25,000 miles.

A similar set of circumstances that occur after a fountain has been in operation for a few years reduce the life of a new bulb in the same manner.  The copper inside the power cables, control panel components (circuit breakers, contactors), wire connections, the light sockets that have become corroded from moisture, no longer conduct a consistent voltage to the bulb.  As a result, a bulb that would typically last 3 years under ideal or “new” circumstances may afford only a year of life.

Fountains are often taken for granted and become just part of the horizon, rather than something that is used on a daily basis like your car. These fountains are in operation an average of 18 hours a day, 7 days a week, with the lights operating about a third of that time.  Accelerating the deterioration process is the fact that they are submerged underwater 24/7, and exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet rays everyday.

Replacing the bulbs as well as performing scheduled maintenance go a long way with upkeeping an older fountain.

Download Our Company Brochure

Allstate Resource Management

6900 SW 21 Ct. Building 9

Davie, Florida 33317

954-382-9766

 

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Considering a DIY construction project this summer, make sure to check with Aruba Permit Services first!

Considering a DIY construction project this summer, make sure to check with Aruba Permit Services first!

  • Posted: Jun 08, 2021
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If you are considering a DIY construction project this summer, make sure to check with Aruba Permit Services first to see if a permit is required! We are your one stop shop for all your permit needs! 🏠✅

Give us a call at 📞(954) 786-7292 or visit our website www.aruba-services.com to learn more!

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Ever wondered how some associations got their sweet bulk cable or internet deals?

Ever wondered how some associations got their sweet bulk cable or internet deals?

  • Posted: Jun 05, 2021
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Ever wondered how some associations got their sweet bulk cable or internet deal? Well, now you can learn about it with this awesome, free webinar on June 11th.

Andrew Black, Esq., BCS from KBR joins Hotwire Communications for ‘How to Negotiate Telecommunications Contracts’.

Click the link to RSVP for free: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_KHffyhMCRR6VYBimTy0BFw

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Mosquitoes Are Coming. Be Prepared.

Mosquitoes Are Coming. Be Prepared.

Tips To Reduce Mosquitoes & Disease In Your Community

We welcome longer days and warmer weather, but mosquitoes are part of the deal. Unless you’re one of the lucky few who these pesky insects don’t bother, it can be challenging to avoid them. And, unfortunately, itchy bites aren’t the only effect mosquitoes can have – they are also the most common vectors of harmful and sometimes deadly diseases, including West Nile virus, Malaria, Chikungunya, and Zika virus.

Cold-blooded mosquitoes thrive in warmer temperatures and can get dangerously out of hand without proper management. To protect yourself during outdoor activities all summer long, consider these simple, natural, and effective ways to limit their impact.

mosquito breeding habitats

Eliminate Breeding Habitats

Throughout her six- to eight-week lifespan, a female mosquito will lay about 300 eggs, often in standing or stagnant water. Clearing gutters, picking up litter, and emptying buckets and small outdoor containers can help decrease the number of available habitats for mosquitoes to reproduce and thrive. And don’t forget to educate family and neighbors to do the same.

Fountain

Circulate Stagnant Lakes & Ponds

In aquatic environments such as lakes, ponds, and stormwater basins, the introduction of a floating fountain or submersed aeration system can help consistently circulate warm, stagnant water to create unfit mosquito breeding grounds. Simultaneously, these systems can help impede the growth of algae and nuisance weeds by supporting ideal water quality conditions.

Treat Undesirable Aquatic Plants

Stagnant water pockets in ponds can also be eliminated through the removal of phragmites and non-beneficial floating and emergent vegetation. Effective solutions may include mechanical harvesting, hand-pulling, or highly-targeted herbicides, to name a few. Your aquatic specialist can help you identify the appropriate option for your waterbody.

Buffer-Plants_Pickerelweed

Plant Vegetation That Attracts Dragonflies

Dragonflies can feed on hundreds of larvae and full-grown mosquitoes each day. The introduction of native, beneficial vegetation around your pond, like blue flag iris, pickerelweed, arrowhead, spatterdock, lizard’s tail, and various types of rushes and sedges can help attract predator dragonflies to your property.

Natural and Effective Mosquito Control Preparation

Stock Fish That Feed On Mosquito Larvae

Stocking a lake or pond annually with fathead minnows, bluegill, and mosquitofish can help prevent mosquito larvae and adult mosquito infestations throughout the summer. Check with an experienced fisheries biologist about your state’s specific stocking regulations.

SOL_VDCI_drone-aerial-application-lake-and-pond-management-wetlands-algae-and-aquatic-weed-control

Integrate Sustainable Biological Larvicides

If the above natural management methods aren’t making enough of an impact on pesky mosquito populations, a safe EPA-registered biological larvicide or insecticide may be used. When applied by a professional, either via ground services, drones, or even aerial fleets, this method is extremely safe and effective.

 

Consider A Proactive Comprehensive Management Plan

An Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM) program leverages science, technology, and strategic, environmentally responsible applications to target the insect through each phase of its lifecycle. Thorough site assessments, surveillance, and disease monitoring are all a crucial part of a successful mosquito management program.

It’s critical for communities to understand the threats posed by mosquitoes, educate their residents, and implement a preventative management plan before peak mosquito season arrives. Now that the days are getting longer and warmer, take some time to prepare for a mosquito problem before mid-summer hits—your bare skin will thank you!

 

Pipe Restoration Solutions – Pipe Inspection Pipe Cleaning Pipe Lining and Pipe Replacement Company

Pipe Restoration Solutions – Pipe Inspection Pipe Cleaning Pipe Lining and Pipe Replacement Company

  • Posted: Apr 25, 2021
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Pipe Restoration Solutions – Pipe Inspection, Pipe Cleaning, Pipe Lining and Pipe Replacement Company

PRS is a State of Florida Certified Plumbing Contractor that specializes in full pipe restoration.

Whether it be sanitary sewer or storm, potable water, fire suppression or HVAC chiller lines, our goal is to provide solutions to the failing piping infrastructure utilizing the latest plumbing and trenchless technology available. We also carry a State of Florida Class “A” General Contractor’s license which sets us apart. This allows us to really understand and prepare to deal with accessing the failing pipe. If needed, we are bondable and carry a low bonding rate through our surety company.

No one wants to have a broken pipe during the Holiday Season!

Contact us today: Have your Pipes Inspected, Cleaned, Lined and Replaced to Avoid Problems 

We also proudly serve Naples, Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Lee County, Pinellas County, Pasco County, Polk County, Hillsborough County and Charlotte County. We have local crews in all areas. Call Us Today!

 

Pipe Restoration Solutions – The Industry Experts
Call or contact “RonnieG” The Pipe GuyPipe Restoration Solutions today to schedule a consultation.
In Florida call Me Ronnie-G😎 “The Pipe Guy” Problem with a Pipe? Sewer, Storm, Potable Fresh Water, Call or Text Ron Giles at 561-602-8660 or email ronnieg@prspipe.com
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Join Us Online For A FREE Educational Webinar:  10 Natural Management Solutions for Your Waterbody   Wednesday, March 24 @ 2:00 pm (EDT)

Join Us Online For A FREE Educational Webinar: 10 Natural Management Solutions for Your Waterbody Wednesday, March 24 @ 2:00 pm (EDT)

  • Posted: Mar 22, 2021
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10 Natural Management Solutions for Your Waterbody

Wednesday, March 24 @ 2:00 pm (EDT)

We’re only 2 days away! During this much-anticipated webinar, our experts will explore our top 10 natural management techniques and discuss how the right combination of natural solutions can help transform your waterbody.

 

Don’t wait! Register today and start nurturing your waterbody with all-natural solutions that will enhance your lake and pond for years to come.


Registration Is Free. Spots Are Limited. 
Register Today!

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Premier Fire Alarm and Integration Systems, We assist you in ensuring that your fire alarm system complies with national fire codes and Florida building codes.

Premier Fire Alarm and Integration Systems, We assist you in ensuring that your fire alarm system complies with national fire codes and Florida building codes.

  • Posted: Mar 22, 2021
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Premier Fire Alarms & Integration Systems, Installation Division Inc. is dedicated to providing the most reliable systems and service in the alarm industry. Helping protect the lives and property of our customers is a responsibility we embrace and never take lightly. In every endeavor, we strive to satisfy our customers by meeting and exceeding their expectations.

Fire Alarm Repair and Maintenance   *   Fire Alarm Service Agreement & Contracts   *   Fire Alarm Service Monitoring

Call now for free consultation

954-404-7137

 

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“Tree Root Damage, Who is Responsible?,” by Becker

“Tree Root Damage, Who is Responsible?,” by Becker

  • Posted: Mar 16, 2021
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“Tree Root Damage, Who is Responsible?,”

by Becker / Joseph E. Adams

 

Q: I live in a gated homeowners’ association.  Roots from a tree planted on the common area has damaged my driveway.  Who is responsible for the repair? (J.K., via e-mail)

A:Probably you.

There are two theories which have been brought before Florida courts in an attempt to hold adjacent property owners liable for damage caused by tree roots or limbs encroaching past the property line, nuisance and negligence.

In a 1984 decision, a Florida appeals court noted that while there was substantial authority to the contrary in other jurisdictions, “the undoubted right of the land owner himself to cut off intruding roots or branches at the property line,” precludes a negligence claim.

As for nuisance, the majority rule in this country, which is followed in Florida, is that the owner of land is not liable to persons outside the land for a nuisance resulting from trees and natural vegetation growing on the land because the neighboring owner has the right to trim back roots and branches to the property line.

However, your association does have a duty to maintain common areas, and it could be argued that if this duty is not met, you could make a claim. However, this argument has not been tested in the courts and is contrary to fairly well-established precedent outside of the association setting.

 

Q: My homeowners’ association requires that children must be at least 16 years old to use any of the community’s amenities without an adult. I questioned this restriction and our community manager stated that the age requirement is not in the bylaws or covenants, but in the “new homeowner packet.” I never received a new homeowner packet. Can the association make this kind of a rule? My son is 15 and uses the pool and the gym regularly to exercise and I don’t think I need to be there with him when he does this. (P.S., via e-mail)

A: Restrictions aimed at families with children present difficult issues for associations. The federal fair housing law prohibits discrimination regarding the use of privileges, services or facilities associated with a dwelling because “familial status.” On the other hand, the courts have recognized that rules based on legitimate safety concerns are valid. No one would argue that an association should let a two-year-old toddler wander around a swimming pool area, unattended by an adult.

In a 2003 decision coming from a federal trial court in California, the court held that blanket rules requiring adult supervision for children under 18 years old using recreational facilities in a community were discriminatory. The court also found that the prohibitions based on children of less than a designated age was not the least restrictive means by which the community could protect the health and safety of children and residents, safety would be better served with a proficiency requirement.

There are other cases that have upheld restrictions and the law remains unsettled with no bright line as to what a reasonable age cut-off is or whether there are other means of ensuring safety in the community. You should ask your association to review your concerns with the association’s legal counsel and review whether the association should reconsider its policy.

I would also point out that as of July 1, 2018, Section 720.306(1)(e) of the Florida Homeowners’ Association Act requires that amendments made to HOA rules be “recorded in the public records of the county in which the community is located.” If the rule was adopted after that date, it should be recorded.

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Understanding Your Lake “How long will it take to clean up my lake?”

Understanding Your Lake “How long will it take to clean up my lake?”

  • Posted: Mar 09, 2021
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Understanding Your Lake “How long will it take to clean up my lake?”

 

This is one of the most often asked questions applicators get and is also one of the trickier ones to answer.  The hard part of this question is that there are so many variables to take into account when trying to answer it.  Are we dealing with one kind of weed or multiple ones?  Different ones may require separate treatments.  Some of those treatments may not be compatible with each other which means they must be done on different visits.  How bad is the problem?  If the entire lake is affected, we need to treat it in portions over time so we don’t deplete the dissolved oxygen.

Which herbicide is effective on the weeds you have?  Some work quickly, where as others take time to do the job, and not all herbicides work on every kind of plant.  What is the weather?  Forecasted rains can wash off or dilute treatments, forcing work to be postponed.  These are just a few of the things we need to consider before we can even start to give a client an answer and that is just the beginning of the process.  The EPA approved products we apply to lakes do not make the weeds magically disappear.  Once they begin to die, most will float to the surface and collect in mats.  Then water chemistry, weather, and lake circulation controls how long it takes for them to break down and sink.

Sometimes lakes will require follow up treatments to take care of re-growth, or dense pockets of plants.  An experienced lake management company can give you an estimate of how long it will take to start to see results but a definite answer can be difficult.  Understand that there is a customized plan being implemented and that your manager is working to remedy the problem.  If you ever have any specific questions about your lake and its care, the staff at Allstate Resource Management is here to answer them and provide you with the information you need.

Author:  Stephen Montgomery, Allstate Resource Management

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