Property Investors Welcome New Rules On Meth Contamination

The New Zealand Property Investors Federation (NZPIF) today welcomed the Government’s proposed regulations for the handling of methamphetamine contamination. “The new rules seem sensible and will provide certainty to everyone in the rental property sector,” said Matt Ball, NZPIF PR & Advocacy Manager.

“The key change is setting a level of methamphetamine residue at which a rental property will be considered contaminated and must be cleaned. Currently there is no regulated level, only guidance, which causes confusion, worry and unnecessary stress and expense.”

“The proposed level of 15 micrograms (g) per 100cm2 is also welcome, based as it is on clear scientific evidence from the previous Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor that exposure to meth at levels below 15 µg/100 cm2 would be unlikely to cause any adverse effects. This level, which is higher than the current guidance, will reduce risk and will, we hope, be reflected in lower insurance premiums.”

“Another welcome change is enabling landlords to terminate a tenancy when contamination is above 30 µg/100 cm2 – a level likely to be associated with a meth lab. That sends a positive signal that meth production in rentals won't be tolerated.”

“Clarity around how testing and decontamination should be done, and what to do with goods abandoned by tenants on contaminated properties will also be appreciated by landlords.”

“Dealing with a contaminated rental property can be one of the most stressful and costly things a landlord has to handle. The proposed regulations should make a bad situation easier to deal with. We welcome the changes and look forward to the regulations coming into effect in 2026,” he added.

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