If roots have clogged a pipe completely, they will block the flow of chemical treatments. Hire a plumber instead to clear the pipe with a Roto Rooter or similar mechanical tool. This also has the advantage of avoiding environmental impacts from herbicide.

Summary: Have a professional clear clogged pipes mechanically.


If you want to discuss your concerns about a person's possible drug use, it is best to approach them when they are sober and thinking clearly. Someone who is high on marijuana may have trouble communicating with you or following what you are trying to say. It's best to catch the person when they're in a relatively calm mood. If they've had a rough week, or the two of you have been fighting all day, it's probably better to hold off until the person is in a more positive state of mind. Attempting to talk when the person is in a bad mood can make them more defensive, which means the conversation probably won't be very productive. Depending on the type of relationship you have with the person, you may be able to ask up-front if they are using marijuana. Keep your approach simple, straightforward, and non-judgmental. For example, you might say, “Hey, you've been acting different lately, and I noticed a funny smell in your room. Have you been smoking marijuana?” If the person thinks you are angry at them or judging them, they are less likely to open up to you. Make it clear that you are sympathetic and just want to help. For example, when talking to a friend, you might say, “I noticed you've been canceling a lot when we try to make plans, and you always seem so tired when I see you. Are you doing ok? I've been really worried about you!” Panicking or getting angry is usually counterproductive. Talk to the person calmly, without raising your voice, making threats, or being sarcastic. If you approach them in a hostile or fearful way, they will be less likely to open up to you, and the situation may become worse.

Summary: Wait until the person is sober to talk about it. Pick a time to talk when the person is calm and relaxed. Ask them if they are using marijuana. Let them know you are concerned about them. Stay calm.


Investing your money is not something you should rush into. To best avoid scams, you should first read up on the steps of investing. Make sure you know the basics ins and outs of investing your money, especially online, before you commit your time and money. An investment scam often does not include trial-periods or customer satisfaction. Before you invest your money, invest your time researching the terms and conditions of the products. If an investor is registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority,  you may be able to get reports that include information such as investor qualifications, reliability, and employment history.  This can illuminate any past problems or concerns prior to investing. Avoid Ponzi, pump and dump, and other common investment fraud schemes. In today’s internet marketplace, it is easy to share your financial information to scams. Do not pay upfront or pay anyone unless you are absolutely sure where your money is going to go. The schemes pay the current investor by using money from new investors. It is a common fraud that collapse due to no legitimate income. Some red flags include:  Promise of high return with no risk. Unregistered and/or unlicensed sellers. Difficulty receiving payments. Secretive or overtly complicated strategies.

Summary: Do the research. Check for a trial period. Get a broker report. Be a smart spender. Recognize Ponzi schemes.


If you have an emotional support dog and you are attempting to rent an apartment or house, you should tell potential landlords about it. You do not need to disclose the animal's existence when you are applying for housing but you should discuss it when you have been offered the housing.  You can either tell your landlord about your need in person or in a letter. Legally, the landlord has to make a reasonable accommodation for those with a disability. This includes accommodating a prescribed emotional service animal even if the house or apartment usually excludes pets. If your landlord asks for documentation of your disability and your need for a support animal, show them the letter you have gotten from your mental health professional. The landlord has the right to ask for certification that you have a disability, that an animal can help with the condition, and that your animal does indeed help with your condition. Your landlord does not have the right to ask about your specific mental health diagnosis. A letter from your mental health professional should simply state that you have a mental health issue that requires animal support. There are a variety of rules around housing and emotional support animals. Your landlord may not be aware of all of these rules, so gently inform them.  In order to educate your landlord about the rules surrounding emotional support animals you will need to know them yourself. Review federal, state, and local regulations relating to emotional support animals, disability, and housing. The Fair Housing Act is the central US federal law that protects against discrimination in housing. Specifically, it protects those that use assistance animals against discrimination.
Summary: Tell a potential landlord about your support animal. Show your landlord documentation of need. Educate your landlord about the rules concerning emotional support animals.