By John Caywood, Neighborhood Code Enforcement Administrator
The photo above shows what can happen when raccoons decide to make your attic their winter home. Because raccoons are generally nocturnal, Code Officers rarely see raccoons inside vacant houses. But, as the picture above shows, we see strong evidence of raccoon infestation on a regular basis.
How do you know if you have raccoons in your attic or crawl space? If you hear sounds in the house starting at dusk and then again around dawn, you probably have raccoons. If you see a space where a raccoon could slip into your home, you can block the hole loosely with wadded newspaper. If after a couple days the newspaper stays in place, then it's likely no animal is using that as a doorway into your home.
If you do suspect raccoons, it's best to call a professional to remove the animal(s) and seal up the places where they're entering. You'll also want to make sure a professional cleans up any of the raccoon waste, which can contain raccoon roundworm. This parasitic worm can infect humans (and even pets) and is spread by the egg spores, which easily become airborne and can be breathed in. These egg spores can live for years as dry pods. Raccoons can also carry other illness-causing bacteria, as well as lice and fleas. And while raccoons can carry rabies, most people never get close enough to be bitten and therefore infected.
When you're outside this fall raking leaves or clearing gutters, make sure you inspect your home for any cracks or holes an animal could squeeze through. Take a look at your roof lines, soffits, fascia and any areas where different building materials come together, such as window wells and dryer exhaust vents. The Humane Society of America offers some good tips for inspecting your homes for openings animals can get through. Sealing up any openings now can help prevent the problems the critters cause when they nest in your home.
Why can't the City of Fort Wayne enforce my Home Owner Association rules, deed restrictions, or covenants?
September 2014
By John Caywood, Neighborhood Code Enforcement Administrator
HOA rules, deed restrictions and covenants are civil agreements between a property owner and the developer or homeowners' association. When someone purchases a property, they agree to follow certain rules set by the developer or HOA. These rules are not set by the City, nor does the City have any responsibility in determining what they are. Chapter 150 & 152 of City ordinance establishes minimum standards required for the health, safety and well-being of its citizens, but deed restrictions generally establish a higher standard of living for a particular area. Violations of deed restrictions should be reported to your HOA. If there is not an active HOA, they may be enforced by one individual against another by filing a case in civil court. Search for restrictive covenants online here.
