ENFORCEMENT
Enforcement Checklist
Download or print this checklist for the steps you'll need for enforcing your smoke-free policy.
Enforcing Smoke-Free Policy
One of the biggest concerns you may have about smoke-free policies is how to enforce them. Yet, many operators who have already gone smoke-free have been able to successfully enforce a smoke-free policy by treating it like any other policy, by involving residents, and by being clear and consistent.
Following this advice from other operators will help make it easier for you to enforce a smoke-free policy.
Treat It Like Any Other Policy
Enforcing a smoke-free policy is no different than enforcing other routine lease policies. You can use the same strategies that work for enforcing other policies, such as those that protect against drugs or crime.
Proving that someone is smoking doesn’t have to be complicated, either. According to Scott Alderman, President of Landura Management Associates, who has gone 100% smoke-free in all of his properties:
“It’s not a burden on staff time. We ask staff to pay attention. Do you see it? Do you smell it? It’s just like anything we look for—drugs, unauthorized guests, pets, now cigarette butts. It just becomes part of routine checks."
Your Residents Are Your Allies
Your residents can help you detect any smoke-free policy violations. Sally Haile of DHIC suggests that partnering with your non-smoking residents can help make enforcement easier:
“Nonsmokers definitely appreciate that we’ve implemented the policy, but we need their help for enforcement. It has to be a working relationship, and we always try to convey that.”
Empower residents to speak up if they see a violation by having complaint forms available. In the end, violations may be minimal because most residents are nonsmokers and want the policy, many smokers don't mind keeping smoke out of their homes, and smoke-free environments make it easier for smokers to quit.
Be Consistent and Organized
If residents sign a smoke-free lease addendum or agreement, make sure they understand the rules and consequences. The policy must be clear about what constitutes a lease violation and what the penalties are if a resident breaks the policy. Clear language will help residents understand the new policy. Predictable enforcement will help ensure that complaints are kept to a minimum.
One decision you may need to make is whether to “grandfather” certain residents. Scott Alderman says his company chose not to “grandfather” because it would make it harder for them to enforce the policy:
“If we grandfather, we’re losing teeth in rules. We have some elderly communities where some only leave if they pass away. Remove that conversation by not grandfathering. Stay on top of people. Explain the rule upfront. You can’t waver. Because if you waver on one, it’s a slippery slope.”
Smart Tips
- Involve residents as allies in enforcing the policy.
- Make sure policy language is clear.
- Enforce the policy consistently for all residents and staff.