The first step to making your building smoke-free is adopting a clear policy that is included in all tenant leases. An effective smoke-free housing policy typically includes the following:1
- An introduction that explains the policy's purpose, which can include information about the dangers of smoking and the exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Clear, consistent definitions of important terms such as "tobacco products," "smoking," and "interior areas" to help ensure the policy is interpreted, implemented and enforced consistently.
- Information on which areas must be smoke-free.
- Description of who much comply, such as residents, guests and staff members.
- Disclaimer that the landlord is not acting as a guarantor of the policy.
- A provision allowing one resident to file a complaint against another residents.
- Information on enforcement and penalties.
Public Health Law Center, Tobacco Control Legal Consortium. Regulating smoking in multi-unit housing.
