As a property manager of senior housing, one of the most common issues faced is establishing and reinforcing smoking policies. While smoking has declined in popularity over the years, it remains a significant challenge for many property managers of senior housing, particularly in Section 8 housing. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the challenges property managers face with smoking policies and offer some tips to help navigate them.
Here are some key points to keep in mind when establishing and reinforcing smoking policies in senior housing:
- Understand the laws: Federal and state laws govern smoking policies in public housing, and it’s essential to understand these laws to avoid potential legal problems. In 2016, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) enacted a smoke-free housing policy for all public housing authorities, including those offering Section 8 housing. This policy prohibits smoking in all living units, common areas, and administrative offices.
- Communicate with tenants: Clear communication with tenants is essential when implementing a smoking policy. Let tenants know in advance of any changes to smoking policies and provide resources to help them quit smoking as needed. Work with your tenants to come up with a solution that satisfies everyone.
- Enforce the policy consistently: Once you have established a smoking policy, it’s essential to enforce it consistently. If you allow some tenants to smoke and not others, you risk legal challenges and potential discrimination claims.
- Consider designated smoking areas: If you allow smoking on the property, consider designating smoking areas away from common areas and other tenants. This can help reduce secondhand smoke exposure for non-smoking tenants.
- Explore smoking cessation programs: Many organizations offer smoking cessation programs that can be helpful for tenants who want to quit smoking. Consider partnering with local health organizations to provide resources for your tenants.
At Falkenberg, Gilliam & Associates, Inc. (FGA), we understand the unique challenges of managing smoking policies in senior housing and can help you navigate them. Our decades of experience in managing affordable housing for seniors and our expertise in federal and state laws ensure that our properties are in compliance with all regulations.
At FGA, we’re committed to providing effective and sustainable solutions for senior housing management. We take pride in managing our properties and ensure that they are well-maintained and in compliance with all regulations.
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.