Aussie Strata Smokers Huffing & Puffing

It looks like Australian smokers in strata buildings are huffing and puffing a bit more these days.  But, that's not because of the cigarettes.  Rather, because the strata anti-smoking lobby is increasing it's efforts.


In the last few weeks there's a few new developments.


First, a lawyer, international athlete, former strata resident and non-smoker, Peter Lavach, who contracted cancer after suffering from smoke drift in his building is taking legal action.  He plans to sue the strata corporation, the neighbour and the strata manager; which is a first in Australia.


You can read more about Peter Lavach in this Sydney Morning Herald article.

Second, there's now a new group called Action on Smoking & Health that's organised itself and gaining support.  And, they've published a detailed guide to controlling smoking in strata corporations called Smoke Free Multi-Unit Housing including information about the health effects of smoking in strata buildings, actions for owners, residents. landlords, committees and manager and case studies.

And, the trend seems to be repeating itself in Canada where an Ontario survey indicates that most Ontarians want smoking banned in apartments and condominiums (see article from the Barrie Examiner).  And, even strata insurers are interested in actions by condominiums to stop smoking in their buildings as this blog by Shaun Marker of the Merlin Law Group describes.


So, strata smokers better make the most of the puffing before it's all too late.

Francesco ...