Cannabis farm incidents on the rise
Zurich UK is urging landlords to schedule regular property inspections after a sharp rise in suspected cannabis-grow operations was documented by fire and rescue services across the United Kingdom.
Freedom of Information requests to 21 fire and rescue services revealed that incidents climbed from 17 in 2015 to a record 54 in 2024, representing a 218% increase over nine years, according to the insurer’s analysis.
The same data set shows a 59% jump between 2019 and 2024, and reports 50 attendances related to suspected farms in 2025, indicating a continuing upward trend.
Rising Incidents Across Fire Services
Fire crews report that the fire hazard posed by indoor cannabis cultivation is only one facet of the problem; many calls involve electrical modifications, water-intensive irrigation systems, and structural changes that complicate rescue efforts.
Stewart Powell, regional major loss lead at Zurich UK, said, “For many landlords the full impact only becomes apparent once a cannabis farm has been uncovered and the extent of the damage becomes clear. Fire is often just one part of a larger issue.”
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If the trend continues, insurers may see claim frequencies rise faster than premiums can adjust, pressuring underwriting standards. Property owners who ignore early warning signs could face escalating repair costs that outpace typical maintenance budgets. Proactive inspections could therefore become a de-facto industry norm.
Landlord Risks and Insurance Response
Its investigators note that growers are increasingly targeting rented homes, vacant shops and commercial premises, often installing concealed lighting, ventilation and water systems to support cultivation while attempting to disguise the activity from owners.
Since January 2022, its major loss team has examined 17 cannabis-farm-related claims with a combined value of £9.4 million, highlighting the financial exposure faced by property owners.
Scott Clayton, head of claims fraud at Zurich UK, added, “Many landlords still picture cannabis farms operating in remote industrial estates. What we’re increasingly seeing is organised criminal groups targeting empty shops, offices and retail premises, often hiding in plain sight on high streets.”
It advises property owners to conduct robust due diligence, schedule regular inspections, and question any unusual alterations or behaviour, describing these steps as among the most effective ways to mitigate a growing and costly threat.
