Controversial landlord Fergus Wilson (pictured) has been left with a £60,000 repair bill after discovering cannabis factories at three of his Kent-based rental properties.

Wilson, who has previously made colourful comments about his tenant selection policies, derided properties with ‘curry smells’ and who once boasted “I can do what I like” with tenant evictions, was also convicted in 2014 of assaulting estate agent Dan Wells, of PLS (Property Lettings and Sales) and, in 2023, was handed a £125,000 fine for harassing Ashford Council staff.

The millionaire landlord discovered the illegal operations during routine inspections of homes he was preparing to sell. The first was in Lodge Wood Drive, Ashford, where he found its windows had all been boarded up.

He tells KentOnline: “It was clear to me it was what we call a cannabis factory – I wasn’t too impressed at all.” The other two properties were in Aylesford and Boughton Monchelsea.

Criminals had used power tools to cut through walls, ceilings and floors to install ventilation systems. The three properties all required around £20,000 of repairs that could not be claimed on insurance, with Wilson complaining: “I feel aggrieved and violated.”

My feeling, three months on, is that I might as well have not reported it to the police. Next time, I don’t think I’ll bother.”

Although Kent Police has conducted forensic examinations, there have been no arrests, and Wilson has expressed his frustration at the lack of progress. “My feeling, three months on, is that I might as well have not reported it to the police. Next time, I don’t think I’ll bother.”

Wilson announced his retirement from the rental market several years ago and has since been steadily selling off his portfolio.