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Updated about 7 years ago,

User Stats

221
Posts
134
Votes
Samantha Soto
  • Investor
  • Indianapolis, IN
134
Votes |
221
Posts

Smoking Tenant and Disabled Smoke Detectors

Samantha Soto
  • Investor
  • Indianapolis, IN
Posted

We have a duplex under contract right now that we recently had inspected.  Both sides of the duplex have long-term, paying tenants.  I'm not interested in finding new tenants if I don't have to since each unit is well-worn and will require some $ once a turn does happen.  

The tenant on the left side is a smoker (ashtray in each room type of smoker).  I noticed when we did the inspection yesterday that neither of the smoke detectors in his unit were functioning.  I imagine he disables them to avoid them constantly going off due to the smoking.  This is a safety concern for me, as well as a liability concern.  I intend to make sure that each unit has functioning smoke detectors before the sale closes.  However, I am curious how I can ensure that they remain functioning.  At the very least, how can I cover my *** and reduce my liability?    

Renting to a smoker is not my ideal situation.  But again, this guy has been living here for 9 years, has a stable job, and always pays on time.  I have no intent to get rid of him.  Just wondering how I can approach this issue as his new landlord.  

All thoughts and ideas appreciated, and would specifically like to hear from anyone who knows the laws about this as they pertain to Indiana.  

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