Methamphetamine Contamination
Residual chemical contamination in a property where methamphetamine (P) has been manufactured or heavily used, potentially posing health risks to occupants.
What is a Methamphetamine Contamination?
Methamphetamine contamination occurs when a property has been used as a clandestine drug lab (P lab) or for heavy methamphetamine use. The chemicals involved in manufacturing — and the drug residue from smoking — can penetrate walls, ceilings, carpets, curtains, and ventilation systems, leaving contamination that persists long after the activity stops.
New Zealand adopted the NZS 8510:2017 standard for testing and decontaminating methamphetamine-affected properties. New regulations taking effect in 2026 set the contamination thresholds: properties testing above 15 micrograms per 100cm2 are considered contaminated and require professional decontamination. Properties used as manufacturing labs are almost always heavily contaminated.
The issue gained significant attention in New Zealand after Housing New Zealand (now Kainga Ora) spent millions testing and decontaminating state houses. While the standard has been revised to focus on genuine health risks rather than trace residues, the stigma of meth contamination can still significantly affect property values.
Why It Matters for Due Diligence
Properties contaminated by methamphetamine manufacturing can cost $30,000-$100,000+ to decontaminate, and the stigma can reduce property values even after remediation. Rental properties and former state houses are statistically at higher risk.
If you have any concerns, get a methamphetamine test before going unconditional. Testing costs $200-$500 for a basic screening test. If contamination is found, a full assessment and remediation plan will be needed. Some sale and purchase agreements now include specific meth contamination clauses.
How to Check
Commission a methamphetamine contamination test from a certified testing provider. A basic composite sample test costs $200-$500. If the screening test indicates contamination, a detailed assessment (room-by-room testing) will be needed to define the scope of decontamination. Check the property's history for any police records of drug activity — your lawyer can request a property history from the police in some cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get every property tested for meth?
It's a personal decision based on risk tolerance. Testing is relatively inexpensive ($200-$500) and provides peace of mind. Properties at higher risk include former rentals, former state houses, and properties in areas with known drug activity. Some buyers include a meth testing condition in their sale and purchase agreement.
Can a meth-contaminated property be fully decontaminated?
Yes. Professional decontamination following the NZS 8510:2017 standard can bring contamination levels below the safe threshold. This typically involves removing soft furnishings, sealing or replacing contaminated surfaces, and thorough cleaning. Post-decontamination testing confirms the property is safe. Costs range from $5,000 for light contamination to $100,000+ for former labs.
Related Terms
Contaminated Land
GlossaryLand that contains hazardous substances at concentrations that pose a risk to human health or the environment.
Remediation
GlossaryThe process of repairing, restoring, or cleaning up a building or land to fix defects, remove contamination, or bring it to a safe and compliant standard.
LIM Report
GlossaryA Land Information Memorandum — an official council report summarising everything the council knows about a property.
HAIL Site
GlossaryA property listed on the Hazardous Activities and Industries List — a register of land where activities that could cause contamination have taken or are taking place.
Understand Every Detail of Your Property in New Zealand
Upload your property documents and get AI-powered insights in minutes.
No commitment required · Start free