The dangers of smoking, and even the risks of secondhand
smoke, have been well-documented. In buildings where smoking is permitted,
non-smoking residents may still experience secondhand smoke in common areas and
see smoke drifting into their units.
About two years ago, the Arizona Multihousing Association
partnered with the Arizona Department of Health Services to educate residents
and operators and create more smoke-free options for residents of apartment
communities. Nearly 100 buildings boast the Smoke-free Living designation
across the state. Some operators are shifting toward the smoke free community
designation as leases expire. Once a smoker moves out, the owner can repaint,
replace carpeting or flooring and even replace appliances where smoking impacted
its use, and then rent the home as a smoke-free home.
Children and older adults who may have breathing issues
enjoy more benefits from smoke-free living. If a resident is struggling with
negative health effects from secondhand smoke, they should contact their
apartment/property manager immediately. There you can share your concerns and
explore how this issue can be addressed.
Many residents now look for communities designated as
smoke-free living communities. Studies show residents view this as an amenity
and some even report being willing to pay more to live in a smoke-free home.
Residents who are interested in smoke-free living can ask
managers to explore adopting a no-smoking rule or even becoming a smoke-free
property.
The Arizona Smoke-free Living website offers residents
and managers tools and information on the benefits of smoke-free communities.
(www.azsmokefreeliving.org).