Stephanie Brookes, Director and Senior Environmental Scientist of Meth Wise let's us in on some Do's and Don'ts of the industry.

Buying a home or investment property will likely be the most expensive purchase you may ever make. Considering Auckland house prices are now averaging the $1M mark, the cost of a simple methamphetamine (meth) test, is a small price to pay to avoid purchasing a meth-impacted home, protecting your investment and potentially saving you thousands of dollars in remediation costs! Living in a meth-impacted home may also have serious health implications for you and your children.

The Crockers Property Investment Index survey, released this September, estimated approximately ¾ of investors would opt for a meth-test prior to investing if given the option. Real Estate Agents and property managers are strongly advising buyers and landlords to have their property professionally tested in order to reduce risk and protect investments.

Why can't I just buy an immediate-result testing kit off Trademe and DIY?

As with any method of scientific sampling, there are always limitations associated with the collection of data, methodologies used, analysis and interpretation of results. Three major points are listed below:

• DIY kits often produce discrepancies such as false negatives, or false positives, which can be very confusing and misleading. You will likely end up calling in the professionals anyway!
• DIY kits are not yet sensitive enough to detect lower levels of methamphetamine in accordance with the current National Guideline value of 0.5ug/100cm2. You may discover after you purchased the property that you have a methamphetamine problem.
• DIY results will not hold up in a court of law if you find your tenant has caused contamination.

 So, if I do call in the professionals, how do I choose a reputable company?

 You want to be assured that the Company you choose is capable of identifying and communicating any significant contamination issues within the property. Be METH WISE and ensure the Company you engage:

• Is Suitably Qualified and Experienced
• Is Independent & Reputable
• Does not use DIY kits
• Uses IANZ Accredited Laboratory Services
• Provides you with a Comprehensive Report

 A committee is in the process of developing a new standard (NZS 8510) covering the testing and remediation of homes contaminated by the manufacture or use of methamphetamine. This will include guidance on best practice sampling methodologies and procedures. The standard will ensure a consistent and effective approach is in place to manage the testing and remediation of contaminated homes and their contents. Ensure your Consultant is aware of these future changes.

So, why not call in the professionals for $169 + gst and receive quality results you can trust?

Be METH WISE – Test Before You Invest.

Stephanie Brookes
Senior Environmental Scientist (BSc)