When a non-smoking tenant reports cigarette smoke in their unit, what action should you take?

When a non-smoking tenant reports cigarette smoke in their unit, what action should you take?

• A. Investigate and repair the air barrier
• B. Install air fresheners
• C. Increase ventilation without inspection
• D. Evict the tenant

Answer: (A)

When a non-smoking tenant reports cigarette smoke, the first priority is to stop smoke from moving between units. Smoke often travels through unintended air paths in the building envelope, so the practical action is to investigate the air barrier between units and repair any leaks. Inspect where air can flow from other units or the exterior into the affected unit—gaps around penetrations (pipes, cables, vents), cracks in walls or floors, door gaps, poor weatherstripping, and shared duct or chase openings. By sealing these leaks, adding or improving weatherstripping, and correcting any faulty dampers or penetrations, you reduce cross-unit smoke intrusion at the source. This approach addresses the root cause rather than masking the odor with air fresheners or simply increasing ventilation, which can push smoke further or degrade IAQ. Eviction is not an appropriate first step; follow building policy and complete the necessary repairs and documentation.

When a non-smoking tenant reports cigarette smoke, the first priority is to stop smoke from moving between units. Smoke often travels through unintended air paths in the building envelope, so the practical action is to investigate the air barrier between units and repair any leaks. Inspect where air can flow from other units or the exterior into the affected unit—gaps around penetrations (pipes, cables, vents), cracks in walls or floors, door gaps, poor weatherstripping, and shared duct or chase openings. By sealing these leaks, adding or improving weatherstripping, and correcting any faulty dampers or penetrations, you reduce cross-unit smoke intrusion at the source. This approach addresses the root cause rather than masking the odor with air fresheners or simply increasing ventilation, which can push smoke further or degrade IAQ. Eviction is not an appropriate first step; follow building policy and complete the necessary repairs and documentation.