New rules for meth contaminated houses

The Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) welcomes the Government’s move to regulate methamphetamine contamination in rental housing.

The regulations, expected to be in force next year, will provide much-needed clarity and consistency for tenants, landlords, and residential property managers.

REINZ has long advocated for clear, evidence-based regulation in this area. In March 2023, REINZ made a formal submission to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), strongly supporting HUD’s proposal to establish a regulatory framework to manage meth contamination in rental properties.

REINZ chief executive, Lizzy Ryley, says the new regulations herald a proportionate response to meth contamination, balancing the protection of a landlord’s most important asset, and the costs associated with decontamination, with tenant safety. The new regulatory framework will provide clear guidance on testing, decontamination, and handling abandoned goods in rental properties affected by meth.

The regulations will also clarify tenants’ and landlords’ rights respectively to end a tenancy where a property is contaminated. This will result in positive outcomes right across the rental sector.

REINZ acknowledges the collaborative approach taken by HUD and its minister Tama Potaka in listening to industry feedback and progressing this important reform.

The introduction of clear standards and processes will give tenants, landlords and property managers much greater confidence and certainty,” says Ryley.