Smoke free Wandsworth

From July 1 you won't be able to smoke in any communal areas. As a resident make sure you know how this ban could affect you. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions.

Why is the smoking ban being brought in?

Three-quarters of the population do not smoke and evidence suggests that inhaling second-hand smoke can damage their health. Ventilation only removes the visible smoke, not the toxins and because second-hand smoke is largely invisible and odourless, premises can be smokier than they appear. Several countries, including New Zealand, Norway, Scotland, Ireland and parts of America have brought in similar laws, which are largely being obeyed.

Will I be able to smoke in my own home?

Yes. Only communal areas are affected. It makes no difference if you rent your home or own it.

But I have a carer who comes regularly. Does that mean I can't smoke at home?

No, the regulations will not affect workers in a private home if the work is to provide personal care or domestic help for someone living there (such as a care worker), or to maintain the property (such as a builder) or to install, maintain or remove a service (such as a delivery person or repair worker).

However, the council would appreciate it if you refrain from smoking when staff visit (such as contractors carrying out repairs).

What does 'substantially enclosed' mean?

Basically this means a public place that has a roof and walls on at least 50 per cent of its perimeter. For example, some covered bus stops and most shared balconies.

This is quite complicated. The definition is an area with a ceiling or roof that is enclosed apart from openings which - not including doors and windows that can be opened, are less than half the area of its walls.