Pubdate: Sat, 15 Jan 2005
Source: Nanaimo News Bulletin (CN BC)
Copyright: 2005, BC Newspaper Group
Contact:  http://www.nanaimobulletin.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/948
Author: Beth Blackburn, RCMP
Note: RCMP Const. Beth Blackburn is the drug awareness coordinator for
central Vancouver Island.
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mjcn.htm (Cannabis - Canada)

PREVENTING MARIJUANA GROW-OPS

The number of marijuana grow operations has increased dramatically, and the 
primary locations for these illegal operations are in residential rental 
properties.

To prevent a tenant from starting up a grow lab in a residence strategies 
are quite simple and non-intrusive.

Landlords should screen prospective tenants carefully and conduct regular 
inspections of the property.

By doing these two simple things landlords can virtually eliminate the 
likelihood of a grow operation being set up.

A marijuana grower will not take the chance in losing their investment of 
equipment and crop if they believe that the landlord is going to check the 
rental property on a regular basis.

Landlords should make it a habit to inspect the outside of their property 
monthly.

To inspect the interior of the home, proper notice is required under the 
Residential Tenancy Act.

If a landlord suspects or discovers a grow operation, they should not 
confront the tenant, but contact the police immediately.

Insurance policies may not cover any damage to property if a grow operation 
is uncovered.

The City of Nanaimo also has regulations pertaining to nuisance properties. 
Health and safety inspections must be completed on residential properties 
before they can be occupied after a marijuana grow operation has been 
located on a property. The property owner incurs these costs.

Screening prospective tenants:

1. Check and record identification

2. Check references

3. Make it a requirement of their lease that they must carry tenant's insurance

4. Advise them verbally and in your lease that you will check the property 
regularly

5. Let them know you have regular contact with the neighbours

6. Confirm the names and numbers of the tenants who will be residing at the 
property

7. Keep records of tenants' vehicles and license plates numbers

8. Ask which tenant will be signing up for hydro and telephone

9. Be there when tenant moves in

10. Do not accept cash payments for rent

11. Consider applicants volunteer to undergo a Criminal record check

Remember, landlords: It is better to lose a month rent now rather than 
renting it in haste and putting your investment at risk.

By following these simple procedures, landlords will decrease their chance 
of suffering a loss.

Next week: Drug endangered children.
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