Smoke Free BC Condos

Searching for a condo has a newly developing option for condo buyers, Smoking or Non! Smoke-free Housing B.C. has been pushing for a ban on smoking in buildings for 10 years, but advocates say the concept is starting to take off with more than 100 apartment buildings now entirely smoke-free. Less than 15 per cent of B.C. residents smoke, but nearly half live in close quarters in condos and apartment buildings. One smoker can affect a lot of neighbours. Imagine lying on your couch, watching TV, breathing in smoke. Imagine having dinner breathing in smoke, going to bed, breathing in smoke, working out everyday breathing in smoke. Jack Boomer with Smoke-Free Housing B.C. says it's an issue that's gaining traction. "As people recognize in their workplace, that they are protected by second hand smoke, they want to go home to their castle and be protected from second hand smoke as well." Over 70% of residents support the no-smoking bans, however, disputes do happen. Some have consistent violators and are levying regular fines. Smokers are running out of places to go but Provincial Health Officer Dr Perry Kendall says second hand smoke in a building also prevents others from enjoying their apartments too. “Your right to smoke stops when the air hits my nose, and my mouth and my lungs”. Smoke-Free B.C. is encouraging people to push landlords to change the rules in rental buildings. It says all it takes is the agreement of 75 per cent of the condo's owners.