Grow-ops"
Contrary to popular belief, Grow-ops or drug houses do not make good long-term investments. Whether you have or have not been faced with a Grow-op yet in your career, it is of great importance to take extra steps in identifying a grow-op (or drug house) before entering into any contractual obligations with clients or the public. Grow-ops are dangerous for several reasons but in most cases it's the structural integrity of the house & the risk of being innocently involved in criminal activity that are the two most serious. The exposure of moisture & humidity to the walls & interior of the house can yield material latent defects (not easily discoverable), which can cost significant money to remedy.
Here are some quick tips to keep in mind...
Identifying a Grow-op:
- Mould in corners where walls & ceiling meet
- Signs of Roof/Window venting
- Painted concrete floors (often times with circular potter marks)
- Damage/Tampering with the electrical panel or meter
- Modified wiring
- Brownish stains below exterior vents/soffits
- Patterns of excessive screw holes in walls
- Signs of damage in entry ways - due to forced entry
- "Grow-Op" sign above front door :)
- In Canada, visit the RCMP website http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/ for a list of addresses where they have cracked down on a grow op.
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