April 2018
When it comes to smoking and marijuana use, prohibition is the single best approach to avoiding conflict.
Condo boards are responsible for management of their condo buildings. They establish rules and conduct for residents living together in a confined space. Many buildings have established rules and restrictions on smoking in their buildings. With legalization of marijuana expected to take effect later in 2018 more condo corporations are likely to consider similar restrictions.
Condo boards looking at eliminating or minimizing smoking-related conflict in their buildings will adopt one of three approaches.
Do Nothing
Condo corporations that currently allow smoking in their buildings will now have the added burden of marijuana use. If there are currently complaints or problems relating to smoking in the building, an increase in complaints is likely. More residents will complain and more management time will be dedicated to address these issues. As time passes, the condo corporation may be required to invest in measures to control smoke migration thus increasing condo fees.
Partial Restriction
Condo corporations preferring not to restrict in-suite smoking may want to implement restrictions on growing marijuana in a condo building to avoid creating a fire hazard or mould issues, or increased water and electricity expenses.
Smoke Free
A complete prohibition on smoking in a condo building is the only way to avoid conflict. No other option will eliminate residents complaining of odours, damage and health issues relating to the smoking of tobacco or marijuana. Any condo corporation taking this approach needs to look at their current bylaws. It takes time to change these governing documents which require a vote of condo owners.
See the following articles in the Condo Archives for more information about use of marijuana and tobacco in condo buildings. These and other articles appear under Air Quality. Click on any of the articles for direct access.
Medical Marijuana – Implications for Condo Dwellers
Medical Use Marijuana – A New Challenge for Condo Corporations
One Condo Experience with Banning Smoking
Second Hand Smoke is a First Class Problem
