Marijuana grow ops are common in Metro Vancouver and BC. For years the industry has thrived due to the large market south of the border for indoor grown marijuana.
Because grow operations vary in size and duration the damage caused differs significantly from house to house. Although smaller operations almost always have some damage and do require proper clean up, the damages can be minor. On the other hand larger operations that have continued for years typically do a lot of damage which can be a significant amount of money to repair. This is something purchasers need to factor in before buying a grow op.
For those considering buying a former marijuana grow operation you should always have a professional inspection and testing prior to removing subjects by an Environmental Company. The biggest concern for grow ops’ is mold. Grow operations use a lot of water and high powered lights which create a tropical like humid environment. Houses are not designed for this level of humidity and condensation. This condensation allows mold to grow almost anywhere. Often the mold can be hidden which can only be detected by air testing. Stachybotrys or Toxic Black Mold is commonly found in former grow houses which is a health hazard.
Even grow houses that were inspected, tested or certified by the previous owner should be reinspected and tested. Just like a home inspection, you want your own professional to come in to evaluate the house. A house is too big of an investment to rely on a report paid for by the seller. Often houses that should not pass are passed anyway by unscrupulous or unqualified companies.
The other part to consider when buying a former grow op is the financing. Different banks and mortgage companies have different requirements. Most require testing be done at minimum to verify there is not a mold problem.
If you are thinking of purchasing a former grow op then call ABM Environmental for a free phone consultation. We can help with the evaluation and perform all testing services. See Grow Op Testing for more information.
ABM Environmental former grow op inspection service areas include Abbotsford, Burnaby, Chilliwack, Coquitlam, Delta, Langley, Maple Ridge, Mission, New Westminster, North Vancouver, Pitt Meadows, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Richmond, Squamish, Surrey, Vancouver, West Vancouver, Whistler and White Rock.