Recent reports in the property press, founded upon complaints made by surveyors, focus upon the spike in the number of cannabis farms fund by surveyors when assessing BTL properties for re-mortgaging.
The National Landlords Association has issued the following advice to cover landlords facing this issue:
- Don't be tempted to accept 6 months’ rent in advance, as it could be considered to indicate potential criminal activity;
- Befriend the neighbours and ask them to keep an eye out and report anything suspicious;
- Carry out quarterly checks and make sure that you see every room including lofts/cellars/outside sheds/garages etc;
- Look out for:
- Increased humidity in the property;
- Strong smell of air fresheners (to cover the smell of the plants);
- Unauthorised rewiring;
- Spikes in electricity bills.
Additionally, our specialist criminal lawyers can assist you any additional advice that you may require. Contact us on 0207 387 2032 or complete our online enquiry form here.