Smoke-Free Washington :: Talk to your Landlord

Talk to your Landlord

If you are having a problem with secondhand smoke, try speaking with your landlord. Here are some tips for having that conversation:

Start the conversation by giving your landlord a copy of the Benefits of Going Smoke-free and explaining how secondhand smoke is affecting you.
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.)
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 reasonable accommodation from your landlord.)
Ask other tenants if they are having a problem with secondhand smoke. Ask them to voice their concerns to the landlord as well. (Download Facts about Secondhand Smoke.)
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 adopting a no-smoking policy for your building, being moved to a nonsmoking building, providing separate ventilation or sealing off your apartment.
- Read about the Fair Housing Act (PDF) for more information.