• By Rodd Smith
• Posted Wednesday, January 13, 2016

Healthier in 2016 - Landlords and Property Managers Explore Smoke-Free Housing

Managers of apartments and other multi-unit housing properties will have an opportunity to learn how they can decrease their costs and protect residents by implementing a smoke-free policy.

The Forsyth County Tobacco Prevention Advisory Board along with the Piedmont Triad Apartment Association, Tobacco Prevention Coalition of Guilford County, and Northwest Tobacco Prevention is hosting a breakfast on Tuesday, February 23, 2016 that will provide property managers/landlords with information about the advantages of having smoke-free policies for their businesses and their residents.

The event is an opportunity to dispel the myth that smoke-free policies are illegal to implement and hurt business. Research shows that three out of four non-smokers prefer smoke-free units. Research also shows that children living in apartments and other multi-unit housing structures are exposed to second-hand smoke at higher rates than children living in detached, single-unit homes, even when their home is smoke-free. This is likely due to smoke seeping through the walls or passing through a shared ventilation system. In addition to protecting the health of your tenants, some other advantages to adopting smoke-free policies include; reduced cleaning and maintenance costs, protection of property from fire damage, and avoidance of liability claims associated with smoking. The benefits out weigh the hassle. Smoke-free policies save lives and money and have become a great marketing strategy for housing owners.

During this event landlords and property managers will hear strategies from others who have adopted smoke-free housing. There will also be information and assistance available to help property owners and managers take properties smoke-free. The event is free, but registration is requested.

To register for the event or learn more, contact the Forsyth County Tobacco Prevention Advisory Board at 336-703-3175 or visit www.piedmontaa.org.