Our properties maintain a smoke-free policy — both indoors and in close proximity to shared entryways and windows. This policy exists not to single anyone out, but because smoke in shared living environments genuinely affects other people's health, comfort, and quality of life in ways that aren't always visible.

This article explains the reasoning behind the policy, what it covers, and what the designated alternatives are for residents who smoke.

Why Smoke Doesn't Stay in One Place

It's a common assumption that smoking with a window open, or just inside a closed room, keeps the impact contained. Unfortunately, this isn't how building ventilation works in practice. Smoke — including the fine particulate matter that causes most of the health impact — travels through building systems in several ways:

How smoke travels in shared buildings

HVAC System
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Shared ductwork carries air (and smoke particulates) between units and common areas
Door Gaps
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The gap under interior doors allows smoke to flow into hallways and neighboring units
Outlets & Fixtures
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Electrical outlets and plumbing penetrations in shared walls allow air movement between units
Open Windows Near Entryways
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Smoke from outside near windows and doors enters units and common areas directly

The result is that smoking inside a unit — or just outside a shared entrance — reliably exposes neighbors to secondhand smoke, even when that's not the intent. For neighbors with asthma, allergies, chronic lung conditions, or young children, this isn't a minor inconvenience. It can meaningfully affect their health and ability to be comfortable in their own home.

What the Policy Covers

Our smoke-free policy includes:

  • All interior spaces — units, hallways, stairwells, laundry rooms, and all common areas
  • Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and all other tobacco products
  • E-cigarettes, vaping devices, and cannabis (regardless of legality)
  • Smoking within close range of building entrances, exits, and operable windows

Where Smoking Is Permitted

We understand that this policy requires accommodation, and we want to make that as straightforward as possible. Smoking is permitted in designated outdoor areas that are sufficiently distanced from building entrances and windows. Please step away from the building — a minimum of 25 feet from any entrance or window is the standard that ensures smoke doesn't drift back in.

If you're unsure of the designated areas at your specific property, please reach out to us and we'll clarify.

A Note on E-Cigarettes and Vaping

E-cigarettes and vaping devices are covered by the same policy as traditional tobacco products. While the aerosol produced by vaping may appear less substantial than cigarette smoke, it contains fine particulate matter, nicotine, and other compounds that travel the same way smoke does through building ventilation systems. The policy applies equally to all inhalant devices.

Policy Violations

Smoking inside a unit or in prohibited areas is a lease violation. Evidence of smoking inside a unit (odor, residue, staining) will be treated as damage at move-out, and remediation costs — which can be significant, as smoke odor requires specialized cleaning and sometimes repainting — may be deducted from your security deposit. Repeated violations may result in further action per the terms of your lease.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. The smoke-free policy is one of the ways we work to ensure that every resident — regardless of their own habits — can feel comfortable and healthy in their home. If you have questions or concerns about the policy, please reach out to us directly.