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.