Livingston Reporting

Ant Control in Michigan: The Power of Recurring Protection

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Ants are one of the most common pest problems in Michigan—and one of the most underestimated. While some species are simply a nuisance, others, such as carpenter ants, can cause significant structural damage by tunneling through moist or rotting wood. Once ants establish a colony inside your home or business, they multiply quickly and become much harder to eliminate.

Retail bait traps rarely solve the root problem. Effective ant control requires identifying the species, locating the nest, and applying targeted treatments that eliminate the colony—not just the ants you see.

Why Recurring Ant Control Matters

By the time you notice ant trails, the infestation is often well established. Recurring pest control services help prevent problems early through routine monitoring, seasonal treatments, and preventive barrier protection.

Ongoing service helps:

  • Prevent carpenter ant damage to wood structures
  • Stop colonies before they spread inside walls and foundations
  • Protect kitchens, restaurants, and food storage areas
  • Reduce health risks associated with pest contamination
  • Avoid costly emergency treatments

For businesses—especially restaurants, hotels, and multi-unit properties—recurring pest control helps protect your reputation and ensure compliance. For homeowners, it delivers year-round peace of mind.

Save Money and Hassle with Proactive Protection

Waiting until ants invade often means more extensive treatments and higher costs. A recurring pest control plan is a proactive investment that prevents structural damage, protects your property, and keeps infestations from returning.

If you’re seeing ants—or want to prevent them before peak season—now is the time to start planning recurring ant control with Northern Pest.

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Northern Pest: Protecting Michigan families like our own. We are licensed and insured to provide insect and wildlife pest control. Our crew has the expertise to track wildlife entry points and remove pests of all kinds, including our licensed builders, who can make any of the necessary repairs caused by wildlife. Northern Pest is a member of the MDAT and the NWCOA. We are certified by the IICRC to provide professional mold mitigation services resulting from animal damage. From prevention to repair, Northern Pest is your full-service solution.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Northern Pest

Comprehensive Wildlife Pest Control: Humane Raccoon, Skunk, and Bat Removal

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Wildlife pest problems are common across the United States, and this time of year in central Colorado and Wyoming, raccoons, skunks, and bats tend to cause the most trouble for homeowners. From raccoons in the attic and skunks burrowing and denning under decks to bats roosting under eaves or inside attics, these animals can quickly cause structural damage, create health risks, and lead to costly repairs if not addressed promptly. Professional wildlife pest control is essential to protect your home, business, and property.

At Front Range Pest, we provide humane wildlife removal and long-term exclusion solutions tailored to the unique challenges of central Colorado and southern Wyoming.

Raccoon Removal

Raccoons frequently enter attics, crawlspaces, and garages in search of warmth and shelter. Once inside, they can:

  • Tear insulation and ductwork
  • Damage roofing and vents
  • Contaminate areas with droppings and urine
  • Create fire hazards by disturbing wiring

Our wildlife control specialists begin with a detailed inspection to identify entry points and nesting areas. We use humane live traps and one-way exclusion devices to safely remove raccoons in accordance with state laws. After removal, we seal access points to prevent reentry and offer restoration services if damage has occurred.

Stinky Skunk Control & Removal

Skunks commonly burrow under decks, sheds, patios, and foundations. In addition to odor concerns, skunks can:

  • Dig extensive burrows that weaken structures
  • Damage landscaping and lawns
  • Carry diseases transmissible to pets

We use baited live traps and proven exclusion techniques to remove skunks safely and effectively. For recurring issues, we may recommend structural barriers such as rat walls or reinforced exclusion materials to keep wildlife out permanently.

Bat Exclusion Services

Bats often roost in attics, soffits, and rooflines across the region. While beneficial to the ecosystem, bats inside structures pose serious health risks due to guano accumulation and potential exposure to rabies.

Our bat control process includes:

  • Comprehensive inspection to locate roosting sites
  • Installation of one-way exclusion valves allowing bats to exit safely
  • Sealing of all secondary entry points
  • Guano cleanup and sanitation services

All bat removal procedures comply with state wildlife regulations and seasonal restrictions.

Wildlife Damage Cleanup & Restoration

Wildlife invasions often leave behind contamination and structural damage. Front Range Pest offers professional cleanup and restoration services, including:

  • Sanitizing affected areas
  • Odor removal and air quality improvement
  • Removing and replacing contaminated insulation
  • Crawl space insulation repair and vapor barrier sealing

Complete removal and proper exclusion are critical to ensure wildlife does not return.

Comprehensive Wildlife & Rodent Control

In addition to raccoons, skunks, and bats, we also manage squirrels, chipmunks, mice, and rats that invade homes and businesses. Every service begins with a detailed assessment to determine the extent of activity and the most effective course of action. Depending on the situation, we implement strategically placed traps, tamper-resistant bait stations, and when appropriate, non-toxic rodenticide options to eliminate the entire population safely and efficiently.

Our work does not stop at removal. We prioritize long-term protection by sealing entry points, reinforcing vulnerable areas, and recommending habitat modifications to reduce attractants. The goal is not only to resolve the current problem but to prevent future infestations and protect your property year-round.

If you’re hearing noises in your attic, suspect wildlife has moved in, or notice burrows around your foundation, contact Front Range Pest for safe, reliable wildlife removal services.

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Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Front Range Pest

Demolition vs. Deconstruction: Understanding the Key Differences

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

While both demolition and deconstruction can achieve high material recovery rates, often reclaiming up to 90% of materials, the primary difference lies in the methods used to remove those materials.

Deconstruction is a labor-intensive process that focuses on carefully dismantling a structure by hand. Building components are removed piece by piece to preserve materials for reuse or recycling. Because it relies heavily on skilled manual labor, deconstruction typically takes more time but allows for greater material preservation.

Traditional demolition, on the other hand, uses heavy machinery, specialized attachments, and advanced technology to quickly take down structures. This method prioritizes speed and efficiency while still supporting strong recycling outcomes through modern material-sorting and recovery equipment. Although the approaches differ, both demolition and deconstruction share the same goal: maximizing the recovery of valuable and recyclable materials from the job site.

How J&P Electrical Handles Electrical Asset Recovery

Electrical asset recovery is the process of safely removing, evaluating, and repurposing or recycling electrical equipment during demolition, renovation, or facility decommissioning projects. This practice helps reduce waste, recover valuable materials, and lower disposal costs.  

At J&P Electrical, our asset recovery division specializes in complete electrical tear-downs and plant cleanouts. We work alongside respected companies such as Adamo, Bierlein, and Brandenburg, maintaining the highest safety standards on every project. Our teams are highly trained, fully insured, experienced, and professional, ensuring each job is completed efficiently and safely. By recovering materials directly at the source, we eliminate the middleman. This streamlined approach allows us to offer highly competitive pricing while maximizing value for our clients.

Electrical Asset Recovery Services Include:

  • Disconnecting and dismantling electrical systems such as switchgear, panels, transformers, cables, motors, and wiring
  • Identifying components that can be reused or resold
  • Recovering high-value materials like copper, aluminum, and steel
  • Recycling non-reusable assets in compliance with environmental regulations

This process supports sustainability initiatives while maximizing the financial return from retired electrical assets.

Demolition: A Highly Regulated Industry

Demolition is one of the most regulated sectors in construction. Because contractors often work on structurally compromised buildings, most projects require permits and oversight from local authorities. The presence of hazardous materials also requires strict compliance with environmental regulations at the municipal, state, and federal levels. Due to the risks involved, demolition is governed by rigorous safety standards, including OSHA’s Construction Standard (29 CFR 1926), to ensure work is performed safely and responsibly.

Request a bid from J&P Electrical for your complete electrical asset recovery project and trust our team to complete the work safely, efficiently, and professionally.

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J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance. 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

J & P Electrical Company

ChatGPT Introduces Ads for U.S. Free Users

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

OpenAI has begun testing advertisements within ChatGPT for users in the United States, marking the first time ads have appeared on the platform. The rollout applies to Free tier users and the new lower-cost ChatGPT Go plan, while Plus, Pro, Business, and Enterprise subscriptions remain ad-free.

The company describes the initiative as an early-stage experiment intended to support broader access to advanced AI tools. Advertising revenue will help fund the infrastructure and development required to operate ChatGPT at scale while maintaining low- or no-cost entry options.

How Ads Will Work

Ads will be clearly labeled as sponsored content and visually separated from chatbot responses. OpenAI states that advertisements will not influence generated answers and that user conversations will not be shared with advertisers.

Users will have control over personalization settings and may opt out of ads in exchange for reduced free message limits. Ads will align with the general topic of a conversation but will not appear in sensitive contexts such as health or political discussions. OpenAI describes the rollout as a “test-and-learn” phase, with user feedback shaping future refinements.

Industry Context

The introduction of ads reflects mounting pressure on AI companies to establish sustainable revenue models amid rapid industry expansion. OpenAI maintains that advertising will subsidize free and lower-cost access while preserving the integrity of the user experience. Some competitors, including Anthropic, have publicly committed to remaining ad-free, underscoring a growing strategic divide within the conversational AI market.

Bing AI Pioneers Sponsored Ads

AI-powered advertising in conversational search is not new. Microsoft’s Bing AI, now integrated into Microsoft Copilot and Bing search, already includes clearly labeled sponsored placements within AI-generated results. These ads appear directly in conversational responses, combining traditional paid search with generative AI. This approach shows how AI platforms can generate revenue while maintaining strong user engagement.

CPS Success with AI Search Ads

CPS leverages Microsoft’s AI-powered advertising platform to support digital marketing strategies across select industries. By integrating paid search into AI-enhanced search environments, we help clients capture high-intent traffic at the moment of discovery—driving measurable gains in visibility, lead generation, and conversions, especially in competitive local service markets.

Meanwhile, Meta continues expanding AI-driven ad automation across its platforms, reflecting a broader shift in how advertising is created and delivered. As AI-powered advertising becomes more mainstream, businesses that adapt early will be better positioned to gain visibility in emerging conversational search environments.

Boost your business with paid online advertising and organic growth. View our comprehensive digital marketing services.                   

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Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems delivers professional results for all your computer needs. We design, create, and code various custom software programs and websites. Additionally, we offer superior digital marketing services, including enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and paid advertising. We also repair and support commercial computer infrastructure, build custom systems and servers, and provide secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call (810)224-5252 or email info@cpsmi.com us!

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Creative Programs and Systems

2026 Construction Outlook: Growth in Select Markets Amid Broader Uncertainty

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The construction industry is heading into 2026 with a mixed outlook, according to the 2026 Construction Hiring & Business Outlook survey released by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and Sage. While some sectors continue to show strong demand, overall contractor confidence has softened compared to last year.

Contractors reported fewer bidding opportunities overall, with expectations declining in more market segments than in 2025. Five out of 17 construction categories now show negative outlooks, up from just two last year. Concerns about the broader economy, the risk of recession, rising material costs, labor shortages, tariffs, and immigration enforcement all contributed to the more cautious sentiment.

Bright Spots: Data Centers, Power, and Health Care

Despite the cooling outlook, several private-sector markets remain strong. Data centers continue to lead all categories, with the highest growth expectations of any sector. Power generation and infrastructure projects also saw increased optimism, along with health care construction—particularly clinics, labs, and outpatient facilities.

Public infrastructure segments such as water and sewer, manufacturing, transportation facilities, and highway and bridge construction are expected to see modest growth in demand as well.

Construction Sectors Facing Pressure

Other segments are facing steeper challenges. Contractors reported sharp declines in expectations for lodging, office, and retail construction, which posted the lowest outlooks for 2026. Warehouse, federal, and multifamily construction also dropped to their weakest levels since the COVID-era slowdown. Education construction continues its downward trend, with both K–12 and higher education projects slipping into negative territory.

Workforce, Tariffs, and Immigration Uncertainty

Labor availability remains a major concern, with more than half of contractors reporting an insufficient supply of workers. At the same time, tariffs have significantly affected material pricing. Many firms responded by increasing bid prices, adding cost-sharing provisions to contracts, or passing tariff-related costs on to project owners.

Immigration enforcement has also impacted the workforce. One-third of construction firms nationwide reported disruptions related to enforcement actions, including missing workers, affected subcontractors, and even job site visits by authorities. These challenges are particularly impactful given the construction industry’s reliance on immigrant labor.

Project Delays and Financing Challenges

Project uncertainty remains high. A majority of contractors reported that owners postponed or canceled projects within the past six months. Funding challenges, high financing costs, and uncertainty around public and private investment continue to slow project starts, alongside rising labor and material expenses.

Partner with Construction Bonding Specialists

In a construction market defined by uncertainty, changing demand, and tighter project controls, having the right surety partner is more important than ever. Construction Bonding Specialists works closely with contractors of all sizes to secure the bonding support they need to pursue opportunities confidently—even in challenging conditions.

If you have questions about bid bonds, performance bonds, or long-term surety strategies, contact Construction Bonding Specialists today to discuss your construction bonding needs.

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At Construction Bonding Specialists, we work with new and experienced contractors to find the most satisfactory bond solutions. As a dedicated surety-bond-only agency with decades of bonding experience, we strive to discover surety solutions for all types of cases, ranging from routine to challenging. Contact us online or call us at 248-349-6227 to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Construction Bonding Specialists

Designing an Accessible Bathroom for Safety, Comfort, and Style

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Designing an accessible bathroom is about more than convenience—it’s about creating a safer, more comfortable space that supports long-term independence. For homeowners planning a bathroom renovation, working with an experienced remodeling contractor ensures accessibility features are thoughtfully integrated without sacrificing style.

Located in Southeast Michigan, JFC Remodeling renovates bathrooms tailored to your specific needs. From mobility-friendly layouts to modern finishes, our expert remodelers stay current on accessibility best practices and recommend features that enhance both function and appearance.

Key Features of an Accessible Bathroom Design

An accessible bathroom remodel may include:

  • Wider doorways for easier wheelchair or walker access
  • Grab bars installed in showers and near the toilet
  • Walk-in tubs or curbless showers with handheld showerheads
  • Non-slip flooring to reduce fall risks
  • Comfort-height or elevated toilets
  • Raised or open-under sinks for wheelchair access
  • Improved lighting for better visibility
  • Lever-style door handles and fixtures that are easier to operate

A licensed professional contractor will also help you maximize your available space, ensuring every element of the bathroom is purposeful, efficient, and easy to use.

Understanding Medicare Coverage for Bathroom Modifications

Some homeowners may qualify for partial Medicare coverage for accessibility upgrades. However, Medicare does not cover all bathroom modifications, and approvals must be secured before construction begins. Coverage may apply to specific items such as grab bars, walk-in tubs, widened doorways, or raised toilets, depending on medical necessity. It’s important to verify coverage details early in the planning process.

Using ADA Guidelines as a Best-Practice Resource

The ADA Standards for Accessible Design outline accessibility requirements for public spaces. While these guidelines are not mandatory for private residences, they provide valuable best practices for creating safer bathrooms for older adults and individuals with mobility challenges.

ADA recommendations address important factors such as grab bar placement, sink height for wheelchair users, turning space, and overall bathroom layout. Incorporating these principles into a residential bathroom remodel can significantly improve safety and ease of use.

A Licensed and Insured Contractor You Can Trust

JFC Remodeling has over 30 years of experience providing top-quality home reconstruction services, with a focus on kitchen, basement, and bathroom renovations across Michigan. We create unique, individualized, and polished renovations—whether it’s an upgrade, repair, or new construction.  We help homeowners create spaces that are functional, accessible, and beautifully designed. If you’re considering an accessible bathroom remodel, contact us to discuss design options tailored to your needs and lifestyle.

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JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Jason Foldenauer Construction

Commercial Real Estate Investment Outlook Remains Positive for 2026

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Commercial real estate investing is showing renewed momentum as investor confidence continues to strengthen heading into 2026. A recent survey from CBRE, the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm, reveals that the vast majority of investors plan to increase or maintain their exposure to commercial real estate this year—signaling optimism around long-term returns and income potential.

According to the survey, nearly 75% of investors plan to buy more commercial real estate, while another 21% expect to maintain their current investment levels. Respondents included developers, private equity firms, real estate funds, and institutional investors across the United States and Canada. CBRE also projects that commercial real estate investment volume will increase by approximately 16% this year, reinforcing expectations of a more active market.

Why Commercial Real Estate Offers Strong ROI Potential

Despite ongoing concerns around economic uncertainty and labor market softness, many investors view today’s environment as a strategic opportunity to secure attractive pricing and long-term value. With significant capital—often referred to as “dry powder”—waiting to be deployed, demand for well-located, income-producing assets remains strong. This creates favorable conditions for investors focused on cash flow, appreciation, and risk-adjusted returns.

Commercial real estate continues to offer compelling ROI advantages, including:

  • Stable income through long-term leases
  • Potential for value appreciation through repositioning or redevelopment
  • Portfolio diversification beyond traditional stocks and bonds
  • Inflation hedging through rent growth and asset value increases

CBRE notes that while pricing discipline remains important, competition among buyers is increasing, particularly for stabilized, high-quality assets. This dynamic reinforces the importance of market knowledge and strategic asset selection when targeting returns.

Top Markets and Property Types for Investors

For the fifth consecutive year, Dallas ranked as the most attractive U.S. market for commercial real estate investment, followed by Atlanta and San Francisco. Other top-performing markets include Miami, Charlotte, Raleigh-Durham, Nashville, Tampa, Seattle, and New York City, reflecting strong population growth, job creation, and long-term economic fundamentals.

In terms of asset classes, multifamily properties—such as apartment buildings—remain the most sought-after investment type, with roughly three-quarters of investors targeting this sector due to its consistent demand and income stability. Industrial and logistics properties also continue to attract strong interest, driven by e-commerce and supply chain expansion, followed by selective opportunities in retail and office assets.

A Strategic Time for Commercial Real Estate Investing

As the market begins to rebound after a recent slowdown, investors are taking a more thoughtful, disciplined approach rather than chasing quick wins. This creates opportunities for well-capitalized buyers to find strong, high-quality assets with solid long-term returns. For those focused on steady income and building wealth over time, commercial real estate remains an attractive opportunity in 2026 and beyond.

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EB Mortgage is a locally owned mortgage company with experts in new home purchase, refinancing, and commercial loans. Our wholesale rates can’t be beaten. We offer more products, more options, and more solutions. Our “3C” Process is simple: complete our pre-approval request, consider options based on your requirements, and choose the offer that suits your needs best. Call us or e-mail us today! 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

EB Mortgage

Modern Pool Finishes We Use at Pound Pool Plastering

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Choosing the right pool finish is essential to both the appearance and longevity of your swimming pool. At Pound Pool Plastering, we specialize in high-quality, modern pool finishes designed to deliver long-lasting durability, low maintenance, and stunning visual appeal. Whether you’re building a new pool or planning a pool renovation, we offer premium finishes that outperform traditional pool plaster.

Industry-Leading Pool Finishes We Proudly Install:

Diamond Brite® Pool Finishes

Diamond Brite® pool finishes are made from a durable blend of selected quartz aggregates and fortified white Portland cement, making them an excellent option for both new pool construction and pool resurfacing projects. Factory blended for consistency and strength, Diamond Brite® provides a long-lasting surface that is more durable than traditional pool plaster. With a wide variety of colors and textures available, this finish allows pool owners to customize their pool while enhancing overall performance and visual appeal.

Sunstone® Quartz Pool Finishes

Sunstone® quartz finishes combine high-performance quartz aggregate with Portland cement and colored quartz to create a resilient, eye-catching pool surface. Designed to resist staining, erosion, and degradation caused by chemical imbalances, Sunstone® delivers exceptional durability and beauty. Its strong, nonporous finish makes it ideal for swimming pools, spas, and water features in virtually any environment, with color and texture options to complement both modern and classic pool designs.

Hydrazzo® Polished Aggregate Pool Finishes

Hydrazzo® is a state-of-the-art polished aggregate pool finish that offers a silky-smooth feel with unmatched durability. This innovative finish features unique color selections and natural resistance to spot etching, algae adhesion, permanent scale, and topical staining. Hydrazzo® polished aggregate finishes provide timeless elegance, improved comfort, and easier maintenance, making them a top choice for homeowners seeking a premium pool finish.

Why Aggregate Pool Finishes Are the Preferred Choice

Gunite pools offer exceptional design flexibility, making them the perfect foundation for modern pool finishes. While traditional pool plaster is commonly used, it tends to erode over time, becoming rough and typically lasting only 5 to 10 years depending on water chemistry and maintenance. For pool owners looking to upgrade or remodel, aggregate pool finishes offer extended lifespan and superior performance.

Aggregate pool finishes are made from a blend of pebbles, stones, quartz, glass, or ceramic-coated aggregates combined with pigmented cement. These exposed aggregate finishes are more resistant to chemical imbalances and surface wear, providing enhanced durability and long-lasting beauty. With an average lifespan of 15 to 20 years, aggregate finishes significantly outperform standard pool plaster while adding visual depth and texture to any swimming pool.

Pound Pool and Plastering is a full-service pool renovation company specializing in plaster, tile, and coping. No project is too big or too small.

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Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Pound Pool Plastering

Bat Encounters and Rabies Risk: What You Need to Know

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Rabies Risk and Bat Safety Awareness

In Colorado, there have been numerous confirmed cases of rabies in bats in 2025, along with one reported case in neighboring Wyoming. In this region, bats and skunks are the most common carriers of rabies—a rare but deadly virus that can infect all mammals, including humans.

Rabies can be prevented when medical treatment is started promptly after exposure. The virus is transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals, not through casual contact or exposure to blood, urine, or feces. Because bat bites can be difficult to detect, anyone who has direct contact with a bat, or wakes up to find one in their room, should seek medical or public health guidance immediately.

When safe and feasible, bats that may have had contact with humans should be captured for rabies testing to help guide treatment decisions. To learn more about rabies, visit the CDC.

Important Safety Guidelines Regarding Bats

  • Do not touch or handle bats—whether they appear sick, behave unusually, or are deceased. Like any wild animal, bats may bite if they feel threatened. Anyone bitten by a bat should seek medical attention and, if it can be done safely, contain the bat for testing.
  • Wash animal bites thoroughly with soap and water and consult a medical professional as soon as possible.
  • Keep pets vaccinated and up to date on rabies immunizations.
  • Report potential exposure immediately by contacting a local wildlife animal control professional. If you’re in Colorado, contact CDPHE; in Wyoming, contact the Wyoming Department of Health.

What to Do When You Encounter a Bat

Bats and humans occasionally cross paths, and the appropriate response depends on where and how the bat is encountered.

  • Bats in unused areas of buildings—such as attics, barns, or sheds—can be humanely excluded using one-way doors that allow them to exit but not return. This method should only be used in late summer or early fall, as earlier use can separate flightless pups from their mothers.
  • If a bat enters a living space, open a window (remove the screen), close off the room overnight, and allow the bat to leave on its own.
  • Seeing bats outside during the day is not unusual and often means they are roosting or searching for a place to rest. Leave resting bats alone. However, bats flying during winter may indicate white-nose syndrome and should be reported to Wyoming Game and Fish or your local public health department.
  • If you find an injured bat, contact your local public health department if in Colorado or the Wyoming Game & Fish. Do not attempt to handle, rehabilitate, or keep a bat, as this is illegal without proper permits.

Professional Bat Eviction and Cleanup Services

Front Range Pest provides safe, humane bat eviction using proven exclusion techniques that allow bats to exit naturally while preventing reentry. Our process begins with a thorough inspection to identify entry points, followed by the installation of one-way exclusion devices. Once bats have vacated, all openings are permanently sealed.

We also offer full cleanup and restoration services, including guano removal, disinfection, and repair or replacement of damaged insulation, drywall, or flooring—restoring affected areas to a clean, safe condition.

A Humane and Responsible Approach to Bat Control

Front Range Pest uses ethical, non-lethal bat control methods that protect both homeowners and wildlife. Because bats are a protected species and vital to Colorado’s and Wyoming’s ecosystem, we do not exterminate them. Instead, we humanely evict bats and secure your home to prevent reentry—keeping your family safe while preserving the bat colony.

If you suspect bat activity in your home or have concerns about potential exposure, contact Front Range Pest for a professional inspection and peace of mind.

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Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Front Range Pest

How to Secure a Construction Bond: A Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When a construction company needs to secure a bond, the most critical first step is partnering with a reputable surety bond broker. An experienced broker serves as your advocate throughout the bonding process, helping position your company in the strongest possible light and guiding you toward the most favorable bond terms and conditions available.

A knowledgeable surety broker understands the underwriting process in depth and provides strategic guidance on how to structure and submit your bonding program. This expertise can significantly improve approval odds, expand bonding capacity, and help reduce overall costs. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, the right broker evaluates your unique financial profile and project requirements to identify the most effective bonding strategy.

Risk Assessment and the Surety Underwriting Process

To evaluate risk, surety companies require detailed information about your business. Your surety broker will help gather and review key documentation, which may include:

  • Financial statements
  • Work-in-progress (WIP) reports
  • Organizational and ownership structure
  • Project history and backlog
  • Additional supporting documentation as needed

This information is analyzed by your broker and submitted to surety companies that best align with your company’s size, experience, and financial profile.

What Surety Underwriters Evaluate

Once submitted, the surety company assigns an underwriter to assess several critical factors, including:

  • Your company’s financial strength and cash flow
  • Capacity to perform the proposed construction project
  • Experience with similar projects
  • Performance and status of current and past jobs

This evaluation helps the surety determine whether your company is a suitable risk and what level of bonding support can be offered.

Bond Terms, Indemnity, and Final Approval

Based on the underwriting review, the surety company will propose specific bond terms and conditions. If accepted, you will be required to sign an indemnity agreement, which legally obligates you to reimburse the surety for any losses or expenses incurred under the bond.

Depending on your financial strength and organizational structure, the surety may also require personal indemnity and, in some cases, collateral to further mitigate risk.

Why Working with a Surety Broker Matters

Partnering with an experienced surety broker does more than streamline the bonding process—it improves approval odds, strengthens financial credibility, and positions your construction business for long-term growth. A strong bonding relationship supports not only individual projects but also your company’s overall capacity to pursue larger and more complex opportunities with confidence.

At Construction Bonding Specialists, LLC, we work with both new and seasoned contractors to deliver practical, dependable bond solutions tailored to each client’s needs. As a surety bond-only agency with decades of industry experience, we handle everything from standard bonding programs to more challenging cases. Our relationships with multiple Treasury-Listed and AM Best-rated surety markets allow us to support virtually all Bid, Performance, Payment, Financial Guarantee, and Supply Bond requirements—ensuring contractors have the backing they need at every stage of growth.

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At Construction Bonding Specialists, we work with new and experienced contractors to find the most satisfactory bond solutions. As a dedicated surety-bond-only agency with decades of bonding experience, we strive to discover surety solutions for all types of cases, ranging from routine to challenging. Contact us online or call us at 248-349-6227 to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Construction Bonding Specialists