Talk to your Landlord

If you are having a problem with secondhand smoke in your building, one of the most important things you can do is talk to your landlord. If no one speaks up, landlords assume there is no problem.

"We are committed to making sure that each of our senior housing communities is a healthy place for seniors to live. Our smoke-free policy protects residents and team members from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke." - Bill Pettit, President/Merrill Gardens (Seattle) Here are some tips for preparing to speak with your landlord:

  1. Start by reading the "Landlords" section of this Web site to learn all of the good business reasons to adopt a smoke-free policy. Once you’re familiar with the facts, start the conversation by giving your landlord a copy of the Benefits of Going Smoke-free handout and encouraging him or her to adopt a smoke-free policy.
  2. Inform your landlord in writing that you are having a problem with secondhand smoke. Keep copies of all correspondence. It’s wise to send your letter as certified mail with a return receipt.  (Download a landlord-tenant communication record.)
  3. If you are having a health problem related to secondhand smoke, ask your doctor to write a letter documenting the problem and send a copy to your landlord.  (Download tips for requesting a resonable accommodation from your landlord.) 
  4. Ask other tenants if they are having a problem with secondhand smoke. Encourage them to visit this Web site and voice their concerns to the landlord.  (Download Facts about Secondhand Smoke.)
  5. If you have a disability that you think is related to secondhand smoke, such as asthma or smoke allergies, you may ask your landlord for "reasonable accommodations" to allow you to use your housing just like everybody else.
    • Reasonable accommodations might include such things as adopting a smoke-free policy for your building, being moved to a nonsmoking building, providing separate ventilation or sealing off your apartment.
    • The only way to avoid the health hazards of secondhand smoke is to live in a completely smoke-free building. Read about the Fair Housing Act (PDF) for more information.




  • Last Updated: 06/17/08

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    This Web site contains information on the revised Clean Indoor Air Act (RCW 70.160). It is not legal advice. This information cannot be considered as a substitute for legal advice from and representation by a qualified attorney.

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