Onions or Tomatoes?

A letting agent was mistaken when she found one of her client's tenants growing what she thought was cannabis. This was in the bedroom of a rented property in West Lothian, in Scotland. The letting agent, however, wasmost embarassed when these plants turned out to be tomatoes! We do feel that the agent was correct to be vigilant and to report her suspicions after leaving the property. The number of cannabis farms has increased and the criminals often choose rented properties in which to grow their plants. What is not readily known is that landlords may well be held esponsible if they allow their rented property to be used for the production, cultivation, possession or supply of cannabis, even if unknowingly. Cannabis is a Class B drug and the penalties under section 8 of the Misuse of Drugs Act, 1971 can be severe. As a landliord, it is poosible that you could end up with a criminal record and with a large fine. So what should you be looking out for?

What should you look out for?

• Smell. This can give a clue even when the plants are out of sight. It is one of the major tell-tale signs of being near a drug farm.
• Unusual equipment such as ventilation fans and lighting going into the property – neighbours may also have spotted similar activity.
• Windows being been blacked out or permanently covered. This can show that the light is being controlled, potentially for the cultivation of a cannabis crop.
• Perhaps strong lights are being left on 24/7.
• Constantly steamped-up windows can indicate that plants are being watered alongside higher than normal temperatures being maintained within the building.
• Continous noises such as fans and watering systems can be a good indication.
• Cannabis farms require an awful lot of power and energy – are there any signs of unusual cables? There may even be illicit tapping of street lighting power supplies.

What if you're suspicious?

If you become suspicious then don't hesitate. Call the police immediately. Do not tackle any of the occupants yourself as they could respond violently.

We do feel that, not only should landlords and their agents be vigilant and aware of what could be drug cultivation in their properties, they also need a basic knowledge of horticulture!