Smoke-Free Certification Program

Pictured: TAA's Government Affairs Director Dustin Engelken accepted the Wake County Tobacco-Free Community Impact Award on behalf of the Triangle Apartment Association. The award was presented by Sig Hutchinson, Wake County Commissioner, and Elaine Loyak, Delta Dental.

Smoke-Free Certification Program

Raleigh, NC | May 3, 2019 – The Triangle Apartment Association is proud to announce the launch of a new “Smoke-Free Certification” program for Apartment Communities in the Triangle area. The program, which is the first of its kind in the Triangle, has been developed in partnership with a number of stakeholders including the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Wake County Division of Health, and the Wake County Board of Commissioners.

The certification program will allow Apartment Managers to voluntarily designate their Community as Smoke-Free, making it easier for residents in search of smoke-free living to find a Community that participates.  However, the importance of going smoke-free extends beyond health risks. Smoking inside a home is the leading cause of residential fire deaths and is one of the most preventable causes of residential fires. Tobacco smoke moves through buildings via air ducts, vents, floors, ceilings, and mechanical chases; the expense of turning over a smoking apartment can cost two to seven times more than a smoke-free apartment.

“This initiative is more than just adding a program for apartments. It’s a step in the process of making our community a healthier and safer place to live,” says 2019 Triangle Apartment Association President April Vasta. “We are excited to be a leader on this issue and we feel that this certification will help to create a sought-after amenity from Triangle residents.”

“The creation of a Smoke-Free Certification by the TAA is a significant milestone focused on our residents and a healthier Wake County,” says Wake County Commissioner Sig Hutchinson. “It is this type of progressive action that make Wake County such a great place to live and we want to thank the TAA for their proactive approach on tobacco."

Please visit the Triangle Apartment Association website for updates and more information on the Triangle’s Smoke-Free Certification program.

For more information, please contact Government Affairs Director, Dustin Engelken.