Spotting a Grow House
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What is a Grow House?
A Grow House is a house that has been modified in order to grow large amounts of marijuana. Launched in B.C. by organized crime syndicates, they have spread east into Ontario, down the 401 corridor, and into Essex County.
A high percentage (98%) of Grow Houses are based in newer rental homes in which sophisticated and structural changes are made in order to supply light, water and ventilation to plants.
- Fire Hazard — 1 in 10 Grow Houses burn down due to improper wiring done to bypass hydro meters. Do you know who your neighbours are?
- Death & Injury — Improper Grow House tapping into underground service can cause the ground to be charged. Newspaper and flyer delivery persons could step into puddles on these lawns and become electrocuted.
- Property Value — Changes to Grow Houses make them uninhabitable for future residents without major repairs. Realty devaluation impacts the whole neighbourhood.
- Theft — Grow Houses steal electricity by tapping into the service and bypassing the meter. Theft increases everyone's hydro bill.
- Drug Trafficking — Grow Houses can typically harvest a new crop of marijuana valued at $90,000 every three months. Local Grow Houses provide easier access to marijuana for our children.
Spotting a Grow House
Here are a few ways to spot a grow house:
- Covered Windows to prevent light from entering the home and to conceal activities.
- Bright Light can be seen escaping from windows. Windows are often covered with condensation.
- Occasional Residents usually the gardener who waters the plants.
- Garage Entry is often made into the home to conceal activities.
- Hydro Meters are tampered with.
- Sounds of Construction can be heard and ventilation fans can sometimes be heard.
