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How to implement and maintain a smoke-free property
Benefits of going smoke free
Making your property smoke-free is the best way to protect your investment. It reduces the risk of fires, preserves your resale value and saves you money in turnover costs and insurance premiums. It also keeps residents happy – over 90% of Washington renters prefer smoke-free housing. For more information on these benefits, watch this 30-second video below to learn how to go smoke-free and save!
Your rights as a landlord
Property owners and managers have the right to set reasonable rules that protect their investments and the health of their residents. Just like not allowing pets, loud music, or loitering, it's your right as a property owner or manager to implement a comprehensive smoke free policy.
How to transition your property
How do you transition your building to Smoke-Free Housing? It may seem like a big step for you and your tenants, so here's a blueprint to help you make the transition.
- First, develop a no-smoking policy, including where you want to prohibit smoking. A 100% smoke-free building has the biggest impact on reducing clean-up costs, fires and health risks.
- Include the new policy in each lease agreement and include what the policy covers, who the policy applies to and the definition of smoking. Explain the consequences for tenants who violate the policy.
- Communicate the new policy effectively to all current residents, letting them know when the policy will take effect. Provide at least 30 days' notice.
- Enforce the no-smoking policy. Post signs clearly and respond quickly to violations.
Other resources
- Smoke-free housing guide - The right decision (1.7 Mb) Public Health's step-by-step guide is designed for landlords and property managers. It includes information on the benefits of going smoke-free and practical tips for implementing a no-smoking policy.
- Smoke-free Affordable Housing Made Easy (2.9 Mb): Do you provide affordable or subsidized housing? This resource guide was made specifically to address your needs.
- Smoke-Free Housing: The Right Decision for Business and Health (176 Kb)
- Secondhand Smokes You (325 Kb)
- Smoke-Free Housing Blueprint (1.2 Mb)
- Smoke-Free Housing and Marijuana Use (325 Kb)
- Download smoke-free signs
- You Can Protect Your Loved Ones From Secondhand Smoke, WA State Dept. of Health