Landlords are reminded to be vigilant after a rented property in the Sandfields area of Swansea was found to contain a disbanded cannabis factory following police attendance this week.
Ahead of the tenancy, the landlord was approached by a man unknown to him. The man offered cash and a down-payment to rent the property. All other contact between the landlord and the “tennant” was via text message.
The landlord did not create a written lease, nor did he take copies of identification or references. He also did not conduct any visits to the property over the six months that it was rented out.
The landlord advised that he had some concerns during the tenancy, but did not think to make these known to local PCSOs or police officers ahead of discovering the cannabis factory within his property.
PC Scott Pearson said: “Due to not properly checking and vetting the new tenants along with missed opportunities to follow up via regular visits, it is clear that the illegal activity was not known about or recognised.
“As the above was not acted upon, the landlord now faces significant costs running into the tens of thousands of pounds for remedial work and unpaid utility bills.
“Legislation for renting property protects both the landlords and tenants. Failure to follow this legislation could result in a very costly situation such as this.
“If you have any concerns of illegal activity in one of your properties or at a property near you, please share these concerns with the police or Crimestoppers.”
