Research says rented properties increasingly targeted
The number of suspected or identified cannabis farms attended by fire and rescue services has risen by 218%, from 17 incidents in 2015 to a record 54 in 2024, falling back to 50 in 2025, according to analysis by Zurich UK.
Incidents increased by 59% between 2019 and the 2024 peak.
Since January 2022, Zurich’s Claims Investigation Unit Major Loss team has investigated 17 cannabis farm-related claims worth a combined £9.4 million, with production increasingly moving into rented properties and vacant commercial premises where electrical systems are often tampered with. As well as safety risks this can also require substantial repair costs.
Scott Clayton, head of claims fraud for Zurich UK, said: “Many landlords still picture cannabis farms operating in remote industrial estates or hidden warehouses. What we’re increasingly seeing is organised criminal groups targeting empty shops, offices and retail premises, often hiding in plain sight on high streets across the UK.
Obvious signs a property is being used for cannabis cultivation can include external ducting or ventilation systems, blacked-out windows, excessive condensation, strong, unusual odours, alterations to electrical systems and unusually high levels of humidity within the property.
Landlords can protect themselves
Clayton continued: “Our specialist Claims Investigation Unit has dealt with cannabis farm claims worth £9.4 million since 2022 alone, highlighting the scale of the problem. Robust due diligence, regular inspections and a willingness to question unusual behaviour remain some of the most effective ways landlords can protect themselves from a growing and costly threat.”
The company says landlords should ask a series of questions before letting a property, particularly when renting out commercial properties. Many of the questions will also apply to residential landlords.
- Is a prospective tenant willing to pay the asking rent without negotiation despite challenging market conditions?
- Is a tenant prepared to enter into a high-value, long-term lease without involving solicitors?
- Does the proposed business activity appear commercially unrealistic?
- Are identification documents or proof of address difficult to verify?
- Does the tenant live a considerable distance from the property?
- Does the tenant insist on paying deposits or rent in cash?
- Does the tenant ask for inspection clauses to be removed from the lease?
- Does the tenant have any history of operating commercial premises?
- Is the tenant trading through a newly incorporated company with little or no financial history?
