This Is A Non-Smoking Building

Landlords in Los Angeles and surrounding areas face mounting pressure to manage operating costs, maintain compliance, and reduce turnover-related expenses. One of the most effective but underused tools is a well-structured lease agreement. A lease that includes smart, enforceable clauses can protect property value, minimize disputes, and reduce costly repairs between tenancies.

Among the most impactful clauses is a clear and enforceable non-smoking policy. But it’s not the only one worth considering. If you’re a rental property owner looking to improve your margins and avoid preventable damage, these lease provisions should be on your radar.

Why Include a Non-Smoking Clause in Your Lease

A growing number of multifamily buildings in Los Angeles are moving toward smoke-free policies—not just for health reasons but for financial ones. Smoke particles don’t just affect air quality while someone is actively smoking. The residue, often referred to as third-hand smoke, can settle into carpets, curtains, walls, and HVAC systems, causing long-lasting odor and contamination.

This residue:

• Requires deep cleaning or replacement of soft surfaces and paint
  
• Increases turnover time between tenants
  
• Can result in costs of $5,000–$8,000 per unit, especially in two-bedroom apartments, based on research by UCLA and the California Apartment Association

Including a non-smoking clause—one that applies to all units, balconies, and common areas—can significantly reduce these costs. It also helps attract renters who value a well-maintained, clean environment.

To be effective, this clause should:

• Clearly state that smoking of any product (tobacco, vaping, cannabis) is prohibited anywhere on the property
  
• Be included in the lease and acknowledged with a resident signature
  
• Be supported by building signage and regular reminders

Other Lease Clauses That Save Los Angeles Landlords Time and Money

1. Preventive Maintenance Access Clause
   Give your management team the ability to perform quarterly or seasonal inspections, especially on HVAC, plumbing, and smoke alarms. This helps catch minor issues before they escalate and supports compliance with California habitability laws.
2. Pet Policy Clarity
   Even if you allow pets, outline restrictions on breed, size, and behavior. Include expectations for cleanup, damage responsibility, and noise control. Pet-related damage is one of the top causes of security deposit disputes.
3. Subletting Restrictions
   Short-term rentals and subletting can create legal headaches, especially under city-specific rules in Los Angeles. A clause that restricts or prohibits unauthorized occupants helps maintain control over who lives in your building.
4. Utility Responsibility Clause
   Make sure the lease clearly outlines which utilities are paid by the tenant and which are covered by ownership. Inconsistent utility language often leads to disputes during move-outs or billing cycles.
5. Lease-Break Fees and Notice Requirements
   If a tenant needs to leave before the lease ends, a clause establishing proper notice periods and early termination fees can reduce income disruption. Be sure your lease terms comply with California Civil Code 1951.2, which governs early lease terminations.

How to Convert a Previously Smoked-In Unit to Smoke-Free

If you’re transitioning your Los Angeles apartment building to a smoke-free environment, start with units where damage has already occurred. To restore a smoke-exposed unit, typical steps include:

• Washing and repainting walls and ceilings
  
• Replacing carpeting and underlayment
  
• Changing HVAC filters and deep-cleaning ducts
  
• Replacing window coverings and other absorbent materials

While these efforts involve upfront costs, they allow you to re-market the unit as non-smoking and reduce future turnover expense.

Why It Pays to Be Proactive With Lease Language

Landlords in Los Angeles, especially under rent stabilization, must find ways to protect their bottom line without relying solely on rent increases. Strong lease terms are one of the most effective and lawful tools available.

Well-written clauses:

• Set clear expectations
  
• Reduce disputes and ambiguity
  
• Minimize wear and tear
  
• Support consistent property conditions
  
• Help with Fair Housing compliance when uniformly enforced

If you’re not regularly reviewing and updating your lease agreement, you may be leaving money on the table—and inviting unnecessary risk.

Let Us Review Your Lease for 2025

At BFPM Inc., we help landlords across Los Angeles County draft and enforce strong lease agreements that reflect current legal standards and best practices. If you’re unsure whether your current lease protects your property effectively, we offer a no-cost lease audit to identify opportunities for improvement.

Schedule a review today at www.bfpminc.com or contact us at info@bfpminc.com.