FLAGGING GROW-OPS

Toronto licensing and standards officials want to know if the new
City of Toronto Act gives them authority to register property
standards orders slapped on marijuana "grow houses" on the title of properties.

Placing the orders on title would alert prospective buyers to
potentially serious problems with a property linked to that activity.

"We're still working with our advisors in legal services to find if
that is actually possible," Lance Cumberbatch, director of
investigation services, told the licensing and standards committee on Friday.

Grow house operators bypass the electric meter, then install bright
lights and other electric equipment that is unsafe and a fire hazard.

They also cut holes in floors and walls to install ventilation ducts,
while thick mould dangerous to health forms on walls and ceilings.

"We would issue an order. It would go on title when it's issued, and
it would remain there until we see compliance," said Cumberbatch.