Property owners warned of cannabis fire danger

Norwich Union said it was essential that landlords carried out checks to make sure their properties were not being used illegally for cannabis production. It warned that failure to do so could mean that buildings would not be covered.

Mike Colmans, property owners underwriting manager at Norwich Union, said damage to properties could be "substantial" as a result cannabis farming.

"The tenant normally tampers with the electricity to bypass the meter in order to cover up the increased usage level. and this greatly increases the risk of fire," he explained. Typically, high powered lighting would also be installed in each room.

"There is also a risk that the tenant could be tempted to start a fire deliberately to cover their tracks if there was a threat of a police raid."

He added: "Aside from fire, cannabis factories cause major physical damage to a property, from holes made to pass cables through walls to significant water damage due to leaking buckets and pipes."

'Regular inspections'

Mike went on to say that property owners had a duty to protect their investment and to minimise any potential losses.

"This means it is important to be aware of the warning signs and make sure all reasonable precautions are taken," he told us.

"Vetting the tenant is of course essential. Landlords should carry out extensive background checks, including checking bank details, as well as insisting that references are provided. Don't accept payment for rent in cash but, instead, insist it is paid through a bank.

"Also, be wary if a short-term let is requested, and discourage any sub-letting. Once the tenant is in the premises, carry out regular inspections, both externally and internally if possible.

"We would recommend employing a letting or managing agent to manage the tenant vetting process and provide the inspection service on the landlords' behalf. Although there will be a cost involved, should there be damage or a fire and a landlord has been found to neglect their responsibilities, a claim might not be paid."

Signs of cannabis plants being grown in buildings included walls ceilings and doors being lined with plastic or polythene, windows being obscured to hide activity, considerable condensation, and a pungent smell that may be noticed in adjoining properties provided extraction methods have not been employed.