In just a few short weeks, tens of thousands of students
will be coming back to Arizona to start college. Parents and students are
visiting apartment communities and looking at rental homes trying to find the
right place for the upcoming year. Part of this decision should include looking
at the smoking policies of the student’s home.
Among the biggest health-and-welfare issues in an apartment
community are smoking and secondhand smoke. Many communities and rentals are
going smoke free to protect the health and welfare of residents. Many renters —
even those who smoke — prefer smoke-free housing for cleanliness and health
benefits.
When you are touring apartment communities, take a few
minutes and ask the agent some questions:
- Ask if smoking is allowed in units or in common areas. Get
clarity about where smoking is permitted, if it’s allowed. Ask your property
manager how complaints are handled about smoking.
- Look for the Smoke-Free Arizona signs. Every community is
required to post signage reminding residents that smoking is not permitted in
common areas, doorways, laundry rooms, etc.
- Ask if your unit was ever a smoking unit. For those with
more severe sensitivities, the smoke smell or residue could impact your health.
If you rent a single-family home, talk to the owner/manager
about smoking rules. Find out if the last renters were smokers and what was
done to they did to mitigate the smell in walls and furnishings.