MARIJUANA GROW HOUSE / CLANDESTINE DRUG LAB

Illegal drug houses and Marijuana grow houses are on the increase. It is estimated that Toronto may have over 10,000 illegal drug houses. The indoor environmental hazards in these homes should be tested. Organized crime organizations favor renting or purchasing 2 story homes of 3,000 to 4,000 sq. ft. and turn them into green houses for growing Marijuana. These homes or industrial units are operated at a minimum of 27 degrees Celsius with a sustained relative humidity of 80 % or higher. Extreme humid conditions cause extensive mould growth thought these buildings. Mould growth results from these conditions and are considered extremely hazardous due to their toxigenic nature. Species of mould growth found in these building in most cases posses micro toxins which can be extremely hazardous and life threatening for anyone who enters these structures. In many cases mould growth is growing inside wall cavities out of sight without any indication of a problem or any visible sign of moisture damage. These homes can also pose a structural and mechanical hazard as well as a fire hazard due to the modifications made to sustain the illegal operation. Once discovered and shut down by local authorities, these homes can continue to pose a health threat to new occupants if the mould growth and biohazard is not identifies and remediated properly.

No signs of mold growth from former Marijuana Grow House.

Extensive mould growth behind the vapour barrier on the insulation. This was caused by extensive humidity due to the illegal grow operation.