Any recommendations for smoking detectors?

Question

Hello,

Inherited a tenant and for sure smoking is happening in the unit.  Regular smoke detector does not pick up the smoke.  Has anyone used either the Triton or Sentry detectors?  Learned of these from quick search results.  Wondering if they are as effective as the website indicates?  Looking for something to detect Cigarettes, Vaping, Marijuana, Hookah, etc.  Open to any other recommendations too.

Thanks for reading!

Nathan Gesner · Answer

I saw a headline this morning for a product that is capable of detecting marijuana smoke. I'm not sure how that differs from cigarette smoke, but it's apparently a thing.

Jerry N. · Answer

Thank you for the suggestions @Nathan Gesner and @Shannon Mogilinski.  I'm going to post in STR forums.  I'm really looking to see in anyone has used these types of detectors and their success or lack of with them.

Shannon Mogilinski · Answer

All good suggestions--if you find this becomes a bigger issue, one thing we have done in the past is offer back the security deposit in full to get people out.  Be sure they are out before you do, but the tenants often do not have the funds to deposit/move.  We have even gone so far as to get the movers--all of which is cheaper and faster than an eviction.  We have only done one eviction in 23 years (we hold SFH) and these 2 tactics have worked for us.

Nathan Gesner · Answer

I've never had to prove a smoker in court, so I can't guarantee results. I would think a detection device would be easy to fool or disable, and difficult to prove in court.

I would focus on inspections and look for the following evidence, then document with pictures, written warnings, demands of cleaning/repairs, and follow-up inspections. Basically, I would make it very uncomfortable for the tenant to remain in the rental. If they don't clean up their act or move out on their own, then I would be pushing hard for them to terminate and get out before I have to kick them out.

• 
• Take photos Take photos of any evidence of smoking, such as cigarette butts, ashtrays, stains, or burn marks.
• Check for smells Smoke can linger, so you can check for smoke smell in the hallway outside the tenant's unit.
• Look for ash A small amount of ash on a windowsill or counter can be a sign of smoking.
• Check for stains Cigarette smoke can stain walls, ceilings, curtains, light fixtures, and lamps. Stains may be yellow or brown and get darker over time.
• Check for burn marks Burn marks on furniture, countertops, or carpets are a clear sign of smoking.

Jerry N. · Answer

@Nathan Gesner  The plan is to absolutely terminate the lease, renewal isn't for 5 months.  Looking for way to document 'evidence' since they are insisting they don't smoke in the unit.  Eviction in this county would not happen in the winter.

Nathan Gesner · Answer

Don't bother. Terminate the lease, clean the place up, and find a new renter.