Editor’s Note: We have all heard about grow operations and the damage they have caused, mainly to rental properties - most recently at Suite Living 2003 by our Keynote Speaker Al Kemp of R.O.M.A. BC - but these stories come to us from outside our province.
Staff Sargeant Doug Lofto contacted the PPMA in Late April to advise that the scenario has
changed drastically over the past months and now the problems associated with grow operations in rental properties are becoming a budding concern right here in Manitoba.
The Winnipeg Police Service has published a pamphlet with tips for property owners/managers to help them spot the signs of a marijuana grow operation(s) in their property(ies). At S./SGT Lofto’s request, the content of which follows—most of it echoes what Al Kemp shared with us in March, but bears repeating to ensure no grow operations enter your rental property.
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What should I look for?
Rental Homes: The majority of homes used in grow operations are rented directly by the grower, by associates of the grower or by individuals who fund the operation. Rental homes are preferred by growers and absentee landlords are considered ideal. If you unwittingly rent a home to a grower and a grow is discovered, your home may become forfeited to the government (under the Safer Neighbourhoods and communities Act of 2002). Growers also like to put bills in a friend’s name and may require that the rental agreement allows for advance notification of inspections or visits by the landlord.
Covered Windows: Windows are covered or painted black to keep natural light from disturbing the grow process of the plants and to keep neighbours or others from discovering the activities in the home.
Condensation: To successfully grow marijuana inside a house, the grower practically turns the residence into a greenhouse. Intense heat or high humidity may be visible in some areas or on the windows.
Bright Lights: Lights, often large industrial lights, may be turned on for long periods of time or at odd hours. There may also be an attempt to hide the lights, or the glare they emit, from view by boarding up windows, painting windows black or hanging curtains.
Yard: Signs (“Private”, “Beware of Dog”, etc.), fences, large shrubs or trees and other objects are
often used to detract attention from the property.
Odour: The smell of marijuana is distinct, especially in a grow operation. Attempts are often made to ventilate the house at night or early morning when people are still intheir homes and less likely to notice the odour.
Sounds: Humming noises from fans, generators and other electrical equipment may be audible.
Supplies/Garbage: Halogen lights, fertilizer, pots, soil and other items are often left in dumpsters or near the home.
Tips for Landlords and Property Managers.
The means necessary to prevent from starting a grow operation are simple and non-intrusive. A landlord can eliminate the likelihood of a marijuana grow operation on their property by simply screening prospective tenants and conducting regular inspections.
It can cost $5,000-$20,000 to equip a commercial marijuana grow operation and it takes two to three months to grow a crop. Marijuana growers will not chance losing that investment by setting up a grow if they believe the landlord is going to check the rental property regularly.
Marijuana grow operations require an extensive amount of equipment and supplies that would make a “quick clean up” very unlikely. Therefore, it is unnecessary for a landlord to make a “surprise” or unannounced check of a suspected home. Give proper notice (several hours) prior to an inspection. If you suspect or discover a marijuana grow, do not confront your tenant. Call your local police immediately. The police are equipped to take the necessary steps to conduct an investigation and collect evidence in a lawful manner.
Get to Know Your Neighbours: Introduce yourself to the neighbours and let them know your property is a rental. Ask neighbours to keep an eye on your property and give them your phone number so they can contact you if they have any concerns.
Screen Prospective Tenants: Check the credit history and references of all prospective tenants. Advise them that you check your property regularly (with proper notice). Let them know you have regular contact with the neighbours. Confirm the number and names of the tenants who will be residing at your property and find out who will be paying the bills. Keep a record of your tenants’ vehicles and license numbers.
Screen Prospective Tenants with Your Local Police: Have each prospective tenant provide you with a written authorization to check with the local police for prior criminal record. Most law enforcement agencies have the necessary forms.
Check Your Property Every 4 or 5 Weeks: A simple walk around the exterior of the house is sufficient, in most cases, to detect signs of a marijuana grow. Remember, it takes two to three months to grow a marijuana crop. If you discover some of the indicators listed in this brochure, ask the tenant for an
explanation. If you are not satisfied with the response, do not confront the tenant. Contact your local police for assistance in making a thorough inspection.
Absentee/Offshore Landlords: have an agent, friend or relative check the property on your behalf.
Why should I be concerned?
Many houses used for marijuana grow operations are extremely dangerous as large amounts of electricity, fertilizer and water are used in the grow process. Large quantities of fertilizer made with ammonium nitrate present a heightened risk of explosion.
In an effort to hide a grower’s intentions, electrical wiring is most often performed by an untrained or unlicensed electrician. In many cases the wiring is diverted around the original house meter exacerbating an already dangerous situation. Other reasons for concern include:
Where do you find a grow operation?
Every community is at risk!