Why make a condo complex smoke-free?
In addition to the health-related harm drifting tobacco smoke can cause,2 it can increase condo maintenance costs (for sealing and repainting walls and cabinets, replacing carpets, and cleaning the ventilation system) and decrease a units resale value.3 Trying to block smoke from drifting between units by using air filters, installing an exhaust fan, or sealing crevices is usually ineffective.4 Prohibiting smoking altogether is the only sure way to avoid unwanted exposure to this toxic substance.5 Who can create a smoke-free policy? Most people assume that when they buy a home, they will be the ones making decisions about their property. If you live in a condo, however, much of the decision-making power lies with the homeowners association (HOA).6 The HOA, either through its elected board of directors (the board) or by a vote of the full memberÂship, has the power to enforce or enact regulations controlling the use of property within the complex. Owning a unit automatically means you a
