Why Smoke-Free Policies are Essential for Multi-Unit Housing

TACLI consistently receives tenant complaints about drifting secondhand smoke from a neighboring apartment, co-op or condo. Secondhand smoke is more than a nuisance; it is a health hazard. TACLI is working with tenants, landlords, property managers and realtors to create smoke-free policies. 

Even with New York’s Clean Indoor Air Act, secondhand smoke remains a critical health and safety concern in multi-unit housing environments like apartment buildings and condominiums. 

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has mandated a nationwide prohibition on cigarettes, cigars, and pipes in all public housing units and common areas since July 31, 2018. 

The Invisible Threats: Second and Thirdhand Smoke 

Smoke easily migrates between units and common areas, traveling through cracks, walls, plumbing, and ventilation systems.  

There is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke. Even brief exposure can cause serious health problems.

Secondhand smoke contains over 7,000 chemicals, including arsenic, benzene, and formaldehyde, which are known to cause cancer. 

Adults
Exposure is linked to heart disease, lung cancer, stroke, and chronic respiratory infections. 

Children
Highly vulnerable due to their developing lungs. Secondhand smoke increases their risk of sudden infant death syndrome, ear infections, and asthma attacks. 

Pets
Exposed to secondhand smoke are at increased risk of respiratory infections and cancer. 

When tobacco smoke clears, a dangerous residue called Thirdhand Smoke remains. 

  • Residue: This residue, containing nicotine and over 250 other chemicals, clings to indoor surfaces, furniture, and materials. 
  • Persistence: This residue can remain active and pose health risks for weeks, or months, contaminating the air and surfaces, especially affecting young children and pets. 

Fire Safety Risk 

Smoking is a leading cause of residential building fires.

National estimates for 2023 show that smoking fires accounted for 7,000 fires, 255 deaths, and over $408 million in property loss. Implementing smoke-free policies dramatically reduces this risk. 

Benefits for Property Owners and Managers 

  • Protect Resident Health 
  • Lower Maintenance Costs 
  • Increased Property Value 

TACLI is committed to assisting landlords and property managers in joining the growing number of communities that have implemented smoke-free housing policies. We offer free technical assistance, including policy development, toolkit, compliance support, signage (when available) and smoking cessation resources.