(TRENTON) – Aiming to prevent pest infestations from migrating during building demolitions if the building is within ten feet of an adjacent structure, legislation was approved Thursday by the Assembly Housing and Community Development Committee.

Bill sponsor Assemblyman Benjie Wimberly (D-Bergen, Passiac) released the following statement:

“Let’s face it. Pests like rats, mice and roaches often find a home in buildings that are abandoned or in disrepair. Once these buildings are demolished, there’s a good chance any surviving pests will take over a neighboring structure. A requirement for pest inspections prior to certain building demolitions is long overdue. This simple step is necessary for the health, safety and well-being of New Jersey communities and, hopefully, will spare residents and businesses from having to deal with extermination issues.”