Below are summaries and key points of some of the research we have conducted to explore both the extent of the problem of second-hand smoke infiltration, as well as support for smoke-free housing in BC. Surveys were conducted in 2008 and 2013 of residents of multi-unit dwellings (MUDs), including apartments and condominiums, on the subject of smoke-free housing and second-hand smoke. We also conducted surveys of Landlords and Strata Corporations in 2008.

While the vast majority of British Columbians are protected from exposure to second-hand smoke at work and in public places, one-half of residents who live in MUDs are being exposed to unwanted smoke infiltrating their homes. This is an alarming trend given that the majority of British Columbians (86%) don't smoke and that multi-unit households make up over 40% of all residences in BC.

Further, our research found that exposure to SHS in the home has significantly increased from 34% in 2008 to 50% in 2013.

Key findings of the 2013 survey include: 833 residents surveyed

• Exposure to Second Hand Smoke (SHS) is very common – half of MUDs residents experience SHS in their homes.
• Exposure to SHS is a very real concern:
  • Nearly 40% were very bothered by SHS; and
  • A solid majority see it as a health hazard
• Only 8% of condo owners smoke, compared to the provincial smoking rate of 14%.
• MUDs residents strongly desire to live free from smoke and breathe fresh air:
  • Nearly two thirds prefer to live in a building that is completely smoke-free.
  • Two thirds or more support more condominiums having no-smoking bylaws for all units/balconies.
• Almost all feel that new residents should know if smoking is permitted in the building or on balconies.
• Huge majorities feel they should know:
  • which units are designated smoking.
  • if a previous resident was a smoker, and
  • if there have been past complaints about SHS.
• But there are signs that MUDs residents need support in dealing with SHS exposure:
  • A very large majority of respondents have never complained to their landlord or condominium board about SHS.
  • Only half of those who did complain were satisfied with the response.
  • Two thirds said there was NO way to address formal complaints for their residence.
  • Half said their building lacks a no-smoking policy.
    

Highlights: BC Resident Survey in 2008: 1,000 residents surveyed
Download the complete survey

• The majority of condo owners (71%) would prefer to live in a building that is 100% smoke-free.
• Only 9% of condo owners smoke, compared to the provincial smoking rate of 15%.
• The majority of households with smokers are already taking action to protect their families by banning smoking inside, or restricting to outside balconies.
• Of condo households with smokers, 84% do not allow residents or guests to smoke inside the home or on the property.
• Over 1/3 of condominium and apartment dwellers are exposed to unwanted second-hand smoke from their neighbours;
• Of those condo owners exposed to SHS, the majority do NOT complain (84%).

Highlights: BC Apartment Owners, Manager & Strata Corporations Survey in 2008: 227 respondents surveyed
Download the complete survey

• 9/10 strata respondents expect that the issue of smoke-free housing will become more important in the future.
• 70% of strata corporations receive complaints about second-hand smoke, yet only 25% have a smoke-free bylaw in effect.
• 3/4 of condo owners live in buildings that do not currently have a smoke-free policy.