Zurich UK says cannabis farm fires more than tripled from the 17 recorded in 2015 to hit a high of 54 in 2024. The figures are based on Freedom of Information data obtained from 21 fire and rescue services across the UK. In 2025, it suggests levels remained close to their peak with 50 recorded incidents.

Zurich says the FOI data is only half the story and cites Home Office data that shows there were 640 cannabis farm fires between 2019 and 2024. Since 2022, Zurich has investigated a total of 17 claims related to cannabis farms with a combined value of £9.4m.

Stewart Powell, regional major loss lead for 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.

“While the fire risk associated with these operations is well known, fire is often only one part of a much larger problem. We've seen claims involving dangerous electrical alterations, extensive water damage from irrigation systems, widespread damp and mould, and significant structural changes made to conceal growing operations.

“By the time a property is recovered, landlords can be left facing months of disruption, substantial reinstatement work and repair bills running into hundreds of thousands of pounds before a building can be safely occupied again.”