Drugs: cannabis
Dealing with cannabis and cannabis smells and what to do when you suspect drug dealing is taking place.
Cannabis and Cannabidiol (CBD)
We often get reports of cannabis smells causing nuisance and annoyance to neighbours or people living close by. Using cannabis is a criminal offence, it is a Class B drug in the UK with a maximum prison sentence of five years for possession. Being convicted of a criminal offence is also a breach of the tenancy agreement.
Using Cannabidiol (CBD) is not illegal and can be purchased legally in shops and be smoked or vaped. CBD gives off a similar smell to illegal cannabis. If you use CBD yourself, please be considerate of your neighbours as the odour may affect them. You could, for example, look at buying an air purifier for use at home.
Reporting cannabis use
We cannot take legal action against anyone using illegal cannabis unless they are convicted of using, possessing, or intending to supply it. If you are being affected by the smell of cannabis you should report the drug use to Police by ringing 101. You can also make anonymous reports to Crimestoppers by visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by ringing 0800 555 111.
If we are made aware by the police of any tenant being convicted of drug-related offences, then the Community Safety Team will open a case and explore what other legal action can be taken including injunctions and ultimately possession proceedings.
Other suspected drugs/dealing
Drug use/dealing is a criminal offence and needs to be reported to the police as a crime. Once you've made your report, please contact us with the incident/crime reference number and the investigating officer's name and contact details. We can then contact them and work with you to agree the appropriate next steps.