Creating a Smoke-Free Policy

Step 1: Assessing your situation

The ease and speed of transitioning to a smoke-free rental building depends on several factors including how many units and residents you have, what kind of lease agreements they have signed, what your turn-over rate is, and whether current residents would support a potential policy. You will also need to consider Bother realities your unique residents face. Before moving forward with a smoke-free policy, it’s a good idea to assess where you currently stand.

Tips and tools: assessing your situation

Step 2: Engaging tenants, residents, staff and other relevant stakeholders

Are you hesitant to consider a smoke-free policy because it could be divisive? Stakeholder engagement is about talking with and listening to the people who would be affected by a smoke-free policy in your building. Going smoke-free is easier when everyone is meaningfully engaged. This site has a wealth of information and resources to overcome communication barriers and plan exactly how you will engage all important stakeholders throughout the process.

Tips and tools: engaging stakeholders

Step 5: Enforcing your smoke-free policy

Engaging and communicating with your stakeholders regarding your smoke-free policy will go a long way in facilitating enforcement. Likely, your residents will be the biggest advocates of your policy and will readily tell you when someone is not following the rules. Most people comply with smoke-free policies when they are clearly and effectively communicated. Still, you should be prepared and know ahead of time how you will respond to any problems.

Tips and tools: preparing for problems