Talk to your landlord before you take action to physically block the smoke. The Smoke-Free Environments Law Project suggests that the landlord ask the tenant who smokes to smoke only near open windows or in certain rooms of the apartment. Request that your landlord take necessary steps to protect your apartment from smoke, particularly if you live in a smoke-free apartment building.
Ask your landlord to take additional action if the smoker refuses to accommodate the landlord's previous requests. Request that your landlord check, clean and change the filters in the ventilation system. Weatherproof doors and windows to ensure smoke cannot enter. Repair any cracks in doors, windows, ceilings and walls.
Purchase a fan to blow the smoke outside. If your neighbor smokes on his balcony, a fan on the balcony can help you breathe clean air while you're outside.
Take legal action, if necessary. Research your rights if your landlord is unable or unwilling to fix the problem as laws vary from state to state. For example, according to the Smoke-Free Environments Law Project of Michigan, you may pursue legal action if the smoker is in violation of state and local building codes, state sanitary codes or laws concerning the Americans with Disabilities Act. Research common law theories that may apply such as those dealing with nuisance, negligence or breach of the covenant of quiet enjoyment.