As a property manager, one of the challenges you may face is managing smoking policies in senior housing. With many seniors being long-term smokers, it can be a sensitive issue to address. However, it’s important to have clear policies in place to ensure the health and safety of all residents. Here are some tips to help navigate smoking policies in senior housing.
1. Know the law
The first step to managing smoking policies in senior housing is to familiarize yourself with the law. Section 8 housing is subject to federal regulations, which means that smoking policies must comply with federal laws. For example, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires that all public housing authorities implement a smoke-free policy. As a HUD approved property management firm, Falkenberg, Gilliam, and Associates (FGA) understands the importance of compliance with regulations and can help guide you in developing and implementing smoking policies that meet HUD standards.
2. Create a clear smoking policy
Once you’re familiar with the law, it’s important to create a clear smoking policy for your senior housing complex. The policy should outline where smoking is allowed and where it’s prohibited, as well as any consequences for violating the policy. It’s important to communicate the policy to all residents and enforce it consistently to avoid any confusion or disputes.
3. Consider designated smoking areas
While smoking may be prohibited in indoor common areas and units, it’s important to consider designated smoking areas for residents who smoke. These areas should be well-ventilated and located away from non-smoking residents to minimize exposure to secondhand smoke. If you’re unsure where to designate smoking areas or how to maintain them, FGA can provide guidance on implementing smoking areas that comply with HUD regulations.
4. Provide resources for smoking cessation
Finally, it’s important to provide resources for residents who want to quit smoking. Smoking cessation programs and resources can help residents kick the habit and improve their health. As a property manager, you can work with community organizations and health professionals to provide smoking cessation programs for your residents. FGA has experience working with community organizations and can help connect your residents with the resources they need to quit smoking.
At FGA, we understand the unique challenges of managing section 8 housing for seniors. Our years of experience as a HUD approved property management firm give us the expertise needed to navigate sensitive issues like smoking policies. We work with our clients to develop policies that comply with federal regulations and provide resources for residents to improve their health and quality of life.
Managing smoking policies in senior housing can be a sensitive issue, but it’s important to have clear policies in place to ensure the health and safety of all residents. By familiarizing yourself with the law, creating a clear smoking policy, considering designated smoking areas, and providing resources for smoking cessation, you can help create a healthier environment for your residents. At FGA, we’re committed to helping you manage your section 8 housing for seniors and providing effective solutions for complex issues like smoking policies.
Who is FGA?
Falkenberg, Gilliam & Associates, Inc. (FGA) has been a pioneer and visionary in the affordable housing industry of Southern California for over 50 years. FGA was founded in 1967 by Jack Falkenberg and operated by him until his passing at which point his protégé Priscilla Gilliam took over and incorporated the firm as Falkenberg, Gilliam & Associates, Inc. FGA has developed and managed 38 buildings, totaling 1800 units, for seniors in Southern California. They work with non-profit organizations and churches to develop senior buildings and have an extensive history of helping these organizations establish a board of directors, pursuing funding, hiring contractors and architects, and overseeing the grand opening. Today, FGA operates many senior subsidized buildings and is committed to providing personalized, high-quality property management services for each one. Contact FGA to learn more about their affordable housing management services and how they can help you manage your Section 8 housing for seniors.