Illegal Substances on Rental Property

courtesy of CompleteLandlord.com

Consider this sobering statistic: 50 percent of all drug labs are set up in rental properties.

As a property owner, you could be responsible for decontamination clean-up expenses averaging $6,500 for a 1,200-square-foot property.

Keeping drugs and drug labs out of your property is not only responsible landlording, it is essential to the health of your investment. Drug issues cause a decline in property value, property damage, angry neighbors and dangerous tenants. Furthermore, you could be subject to civil penalties if illegal drug manufacturing or use is occurring in your rental.

The first step toward avoiding drug problems on your property occurs during the application process. Conduct thorough background checks on rental history, credit history, employment history and criminal history of all applicants.

Meet every adult who will be occupying your building and require current photo identification to verify that you are meeting the person whose name is on the lease.

Once your tenants have moved in, be aware of suspicious behavior including:

blackened windows or drawn curtains;
frequent visitors at all hours;
paranoid or odd behavior;
extensive security measures;
excessive garbage; and
chemical odors.

It is also helpful to have a good relationship with your properties' neighbors, especially if you do not live nearby. Give them your phone number and ask them to call you if they suspect any illegal activity.

If you do discover or suspect a drug lab on your property, leave the area and call your local law enforcement agency.


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