A landlord in Swansea is facing a bill of tens of thousands of pounds after his property was used as a cannabis factory without his knowledge. South Wales Police discovered the cannabis plants inside the property in the Sandfields area, prompting a warning to landlords to be vigilant.
According to police, the landlord was approached by an unknown man who offered cash and a down-payment to rent the property. All subsequent contact was via text message, and the landlord did not create a written lease, take copies of identification or references, or conduct any visits over the six-month tenancy.
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.”
Police noted that the landlord had some concerns during the tenancy but did not report them to local officers. PC Pearson added: “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.”
