Landlord faces huge bill after Swansea cannabis factory find

A Swansea landlord is facing repair costs running into tens of thousands of pounds after a cannabis factory was discovered at his rented property in Sandfields this week.

South Wales Police are using the case as a stark warning to landlords about the importance of proper tenant vetting and regular property checks.

The landlord was initially approached by a man he didn’t know, who offered cash and a down-payment to rent the property. From that point onwards, all contact between the landlord and his supposed “tenant” took place via text message.

Despite renting out the property for six months, the landlord failed to create a written lease, take copies of identification or references, or conduct any visits to check on the premises. He has now admitted he had concerns during the tenancy but didn’t think to report them to local PCSOs or police officers before the cannabis operation was uncovered.

The landlord is now left dealing with significant remedial work costs and unpaid utility bills.

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.”