As a landlord or property manager, there are many factors that need to be considered when renting to new tenants.

In today’s world, one of the most important factors is whether or not to allow residents to smoke tobacco or cannabis, either in their residence or around the property’s grounds.

The fact is, smoking is not only a risky proposition for residents, as it negatively affects their health…

It also has a number of serious risks for you as a landlord. Smoke damage to your units… Strong odors that must be removed when a resident moves out… And of course the risk of fire is a big factor as well. That’s why we urge all landlords to add a smoke-free clause to all new leases…So that your staff and property will be fully protected.

Now, truth be told, this isn’t a policy that can be enacted overnight. But it’s important to have an implementation plan that includes communicating the change to residents and staff and emphasizing that this will only affect new leases. In time, your building will become smoke-free…Making the air cleaner, lowering risks, reducing cost and creating a healthier building that everyone will want to live in.

To clear the air, go to www.smokefreehousingon.ca.