Landlord Quick Tip

Tip #84: Kicking Butts

landlord helpThe benefits for landlords who adopt a policy of no-smoking rental properties are many: some states require it, HUD has now endorsed it, and surveys prove most tenants prefer nonsmoking buildings – in fact, they’ll pay more it.

If you are considering a switch to nonsmoking rentals, the recommended first step is to survey existing tenants regarding a no-smoking preference. Chances are high the majority will applaud a no-smoking policy, and the survey will serve as a first notice that the policy is forthcoming.

Here’s a sample survey that you could use:

[Date]

Dear Residents:

We are pleased that you have chosen to reside at [name of building/property]. The [name of management company or apartment building] have been studying changes that are occurring in the management of apartments. Many owners are deciding to regulate the use of tobacco products within their properties.

Apartment building owners are adopting smoke-free policies for a number of reasons. Secondhand smoke is a health hazard, especially for children, the elderly, and persons with chronic illnesses, for which there is no safe exposure. (Source: U.S. Surgeon General, 2006). In addition, smoking materials are a leading cause of fire deaths in [your state].

To ensure the health and safety of all persons living here, we are considering adopting a smoke-free policy for our building and individual units. We would like to hear from you! Let us know what you think about having rules about tobacco use in the building and on the grounds. Please fill out the short survey below and return it to [name of office, etc.].

Sincerely,

[Apartment Managers name]

Cut here – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

Do you smoke in your unit?

ô‚… Yes, I smoke in my unit

ô‚… No, I do not smoke or allow others to smoke in my unit

Can you smell smoke in your unit?

ô‚… Yes, I can smell secondhand smoke coming into my unit from another unit

ô‚… The smoke smell bothers me/The smoke smell makes me ill

ô‚… Im worried about the effects the secondhand smoke has on my health or the health of people who live with me

Would you like to live in a smoke-free building?

ô‚… Yes, I would like our building to be smoke free; including the units

ô‚… No, I would like our building to continue to allow smoking in the units

ô‚… I have no preference

Building Name:
Comments:

Optional Information:

Name:

Unit #:
Phone:

See last weeks Landlord Quick Tip.

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