Guide to landlords spotting a cannabis factory

A police force has issued private landlords with guidance on how to spot if their rented properties are being turned into cannabis 'factories'according to the BBC.

Gwent Police said in the past five years the number of 'factories' it had uncovered has risen from five to 151.

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The force's drugs squad head Det Insp Paul Evans said five were found this year and 38 in the past 12 months.

He said: "When drug criminals operate out of rental properties neighbourhoods suffer."


CANNABIS 'FACTORY' CLUES

Strong smell of de-odourisers or air fresheners to disguise the smell of drug production
Lights being left on all day and night and curtains and blinds drawn
A sudden jump or fall in electricity bills
Possible rewiring
High humidity in the property
Source: Gwent Police

Det Insp Evans added: "Landlords are responsible for their property including costs if utilities are tapped into.

"Properties should be maintained and kept in good order and we advise landlords to check their premises on a regular basis to avoid becoming a victim."