Many housing search websites have a keyword search where renters can look for terms like “no smoking,” “non-smoking,” or “smoke-free” among their amenities. Avoid housing described as “smoking allowed.” However, not all properties advertise their smoke-free status.

Even if a property advertises itself as smoke-free, touring the unit, reviewing the smoke-free policy, and asking about enforcement are suggested before signing a lease.
 

The best place to start is reviewing the resource Smoke-Free Multi-Unit Housing: Frequently Asked Questions from Tenants. This document provides guidance on:

• Addressing issues when buildings already have a smoke-free policy.
• Helping a building adopt a smoke-free policy.
• Seeking a reasonable accommodation for a disability.
• Exploring options for legal technical assistance and legal aid.

Residents can work with their property manager using the resources on the Property Managers page to advocate for a smoke-free policy in their building. To request one-on-one technical assistance, here are two ways MDHHS can help with drifting smoke:

• If the smoking occurs in indoor common areas: Contact Michigan’s Smoke-Free Indoor Air Law Complaint Line: 517-241-6303.
• If the smoking occurs in housing units: Complete the Online Request Form or email MDHHS-TobaccoSection@michigan.gov. (Please Note: MDHHS does not have enforcement authority and cannot provide legal advice but can help residents identify actions they can take.)

Supporting Resources

• Sample Letter to Property Management (No Smoke-Free Policy) (for residents to encourage adoption of a smoke-free policy)
• Sample Letter to Property Management (Unenforced Smoke-Free Policy) (for residents to encourage enforcement of an existing, but unenforced, smoke-free policy)
• Sample Letter from Resident's Health Care Provider to Property Management (for providers to express concern about the effects of secondhand smoke on their patient)
   

Individuals with a disability impacted by secondhand smoke may be able to request a reasonable accommodation. Learn more about Smoke-Free Housing Reasonable Accommodations and review the sample letter to request reasonable accommodation, created by the Public Health Law Center.*
 

*Please Note: This sample letter is for informational purposes only. If you have questions regarding your rights and responsibilities under the law, you should consult an attorney.
 

Residents of common interest communities can be impacted by secondhand smoke in the same way that renters in multi-unit housing can. Secondhand smoke drifts from unit to unit. Resources to support smoke-free policies in condominiums and other common interest communities include:

• Model Smoke-Free Common Interest Community Policy
• Secondhand Smoke in Condominiums: Legal Options for Owners
• Options for Condo Owners Suffering from Drifting Secondhand Smoke
   

Visit Michigan.gov/Quitlink to start your quit journey.