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• A Kick In The Butts / Why Condos, Rentals May Not Let You Light 'Em Up - Even In Your Unit 

Some apartment and condominium complexes in Connecticut and across the country have introduced smoking bans .

Real estate experts say rental management companies are increasingly concerned that smoke infringes the health rights of non-smokers in nearby units or common areas. They are also concerned that smoke will reduce property values because of damage to rugs and curtains.

And, they reason, cigarettes are a fire hazard.

"It's an issue for sure," said Frank Rathbun, spokesman for the Community Association Institute in Alexandria, Va., a national advocacy group that represents the interests of condominium, housing and rental associations.

Some real estate experts say bans could become a selling point for complexes.

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