Do you own a rental property? Are you aware of the implications of “smoking properties”? Many landlords are, unfortunately, unaware of the serious and negative consequences associated with allowing smoking in their rental properties.

Once upon a time, smoking was ubiquitous – tolerated in public places such as hospitals and aircraft. Times have changed, though. Today, we understand not only the negative consequences of smoking, but also of “second-hand smoking”, too.

Thus, the numbers of those who smoke has dramatically dropped over the years. At the outset, then, there is a logistical advantage to avoiding a “smoking rental property”, even if you happen to be a smoker yourself. You have a broader, wider market with non-smokers.

Damaging the rental property

Property management is about reducing costs and maximising income.

Smoking has been shown, along many fronts, to increase costs in both the short and the long term. For example, smoking is linked to innumerable sources of property damage – both from accidental ash drops to the lingering smell that nicotine leaves behind.

If you wish to convert the property from “smoking” to “non-smoking”, you could be in for a shock. It takes quite an effort to remove that ever-present haunting smell, often requiring intense efforts such as a full paint job and bleaching carpets.

Even then, the smell of nicotine can make itself present. It’s remains a nuisance not only to the property, but also for prospective tenants. Quality tenants aren’t willing to fork out rental sums and deposits for environments they feel uncomfortable in.

It’s an immediate turn-off; increasing vacancy periods and losing potential income.

Rental properties are rented earlier when smoking is not an issue. And at some point, conversion to a “non-smoking property” must be made. More and more people now avoid the habit, so time is not on your side either.

Dealing with smoking tenants

There are also questions of insurance worth considering, too. Property accidents associated with smoking can increase home insurance costs; a financial brunt that landlords are obliged to bear. Avoid these risks by taking some simple and sensible steps.

Include an anti-smoking clause in the lease agreement. This clause should make it crystal clear where the tenant can and cannot smoke. It should clarify not only whether they can smoke inside the property itself, but also in terms of ancillary structures, such as garages.

If you’ve decided that a “non-smoking” rental property is the way to go, take the steps to remove all lingering traces of nicotine. Non-smokers are sensitive of these traces, no matter how hard you try to eliminate them.

A comprehensive cleaning program – one that involves a complete re-paint and, if you own carpets, bleaching – should be performed. Vacancy periods can increase if this necessary effort is not made. Don’t take any risks; instead, make the effort.

Don’t have the time? Property management services can help you save time and reduce costs. If you’d like to learn more about how property management can help you, contact Triumph today on (702) 367-2323 for more information. Alternatively, we have an extensive range of non-smoking Las Vegas properties on offer.