Empty properties targeted in cannabis crackdown

Landlords and tenants have been warned they could face action if a cannabis farm is found in their property

A new scheme aims to cut the number of illegal cannabis farms in Stoke-on-Trent by focusing on empty properties.

The city council and Staffordshire Police said they would target privately rented homes, commercial buildings and council properties.

They have encouraged the owners of these empty buildings to report anything suspicious and have warned of big fines for owners and tenants if a cannabis farm is found.

In the last three months, 21 "significant cannabis grows" were discovered, a city council spokesperson said.

Private landlords who knowingly allow cannabis grows in their properties have been told they could face criminal charges, while council tenants will see their tenancies terminated.

The city council said it believed criminal gangs were targeting empty buildings and warned they could be a fire hazard.

A spokesperson listed telltale signs that cannabis is being grown and said their housing teams would inspect high-risk properties, particularly those standing empty.

Staffordshire Police said the signs included:

• A pungent smell

• High levels of condensation on windows, even in the warmer months

• Constantly covered or blacked-out windows

• A high number of deliveries or large items being taken in or out

• A constant buzz of ventilation

• Strong, constant lighting day and night

• Lots of power cables

• Unsociable comings and goings