Your enforcement plan will likely depend on your tenant(s) and their behaviour, whether or not there is damage to the unit, and whether or not you live in the building too. If there is evidence of smoking in violation of a no-smoking policy, you can follow these steps:
Communicate with the Tenant
- Have a direct conversation to remind the tenant of the no-smoking policy and their responsibilities.
- Clarify expectations and discuss any concerns they may have.
Provide Written Notice
- Send a formal letter (you can also send an additional email for record keeping purposes) outlining the violation, including details of any discussions you’ve had with the tenant.
- Keep a record of all communications regarding the policy.
Document Violations
- Keep detailed records of policy breaches, including dates, times, and any witnesses.
- If applicable, take photos or gather additional evidence.
Issue a Warning Letter
- Before pursuing eviction, provide a warning letter that outlines potential consequences if violations continue.
Serve an Eviction Warning (if necessary)
- If violations persist, follow proper legal procedures for completing a “Notice to Terminate a Tenancy Early” form that serves as an eviction warning.
Conduct Regular Inspections
- Schedule routine inspections to ensure compliance and address issues early.
Address Complaints Promptly
- Take all tenant complaints about second-hand smoke seriously and investigate them thoroughly.
- Work proactively to resolve disputes and ensure all tenants are aware of the enforcement process.
By clearly communicating expectations, documenting violations, and taking appropriate action, you can effectively enforce a smoke-free policy while maintaining a positive tenant relationship.
