The abuse of Methamphetamine has long been the scourge of modern society. The drug is readily available and relatively easy to manufacture. Recent headlines suggest that the epidemic is not abating anytime soon and the use of rental properties for meth labs continues.
A recent article in the FayObserver (The Fayetteville Observer, January 5, 2013) highlights the cost of cleanup when a rental property is involved with the illegal manufacture of methamphetamine.
More than two months after a working methamphetamine lab was discovered in Gates Four, no arrests have been made and the home remains vacant, authorities said… Authorities said decontamination can cost up to $200,000. http://www.fayobserver.com/articles/2013/01/04/1228439?sac=fo.local
Certainly the cost of an unrented apartment or single-family home is problematic but when one includes the cost of clean-up for a methamphetamine lab significant cost can lead to bankruptcy or loss of income property.
Properly vetting potential renters can greatly assist in making clean decisions about a candidate’s viability. Typical tenant checks include credit scores, previous evictions, and criminal histories. While it is difficult to make an assessment when a potential renter has no criminal past. However, with recidivism rates remaining high, the chance of discovering a criminal history that could lead to future crime remains strong. http://www.sacbee.com/2012/12/09/5040073/dont-build-more-jails-fix-inmate.html
Once a property has been identified as housing a methamphetamine lab there are greater challenges beyond clean-up. The ability to sell or re-rent the property becomes problematic
In an on-line article (www.stltoday.com, January 7, 2013) the City of Crestwood passed a law in regards to meth lab clean-up:
The law requires the owner of any structure that housed a meth lab to thoroughly clean the premises before it can be sold or rented. The law is an addition to the city’s other inspection criteria and is enforced by the Public Works Department. http://www.stltoday.com/suburban-journals/metro/news/crestwood-passes-meth-cleanup-law/article_d357e676-f52d-5ef9-b443-c6a4d52ad502.html
The Crestwood Police Chief made the following recommendation:
“One result is that landlords might need to screen their tenants a little better…” http://www.stltoday.com/suburban-journals/metro/news/crestwood-passes-meth-cleanup-law/article_d357e676-f52d-5ef9-b443-c6a4d52ad502.html
And the problem of meth labs in rental properties should also be the concern of new tenants, as well. Understanding the history of the property is important, especially if involved with the production of methamphetamine. During the manufacture process the chemicals used in the production of meth as well as the final product can get into carpet, furniture, walls, and curtains.
Drug task force authorities across the country are urging new homeowners to check into the drug history of the previous homeowners or tenants, because the residual effects of drugs within a home – especially the chemical deposits from the manufacturing of methamphetamines – can linger for years and cause major health problems for the home’s new occupants. http://glendora.patch.com/articles/is-your-home-a-former-meth-lab
The Department of Justice/DEA offers an on-line Clandestine Laboratory Registry at
The incidence of meth labs in private homes is on the upswing.
In 2011, 10,287 meth lab incidents were reported across the nation— up 39 percent from 2008. There were also an estimated 2.5 million meth-contaminated homes in the U.S.
Adam Almeida, CEO and President of TenantScreeningUSA.com strongly encourages property managers and landlords to conduct thorough tenant screening. “With in-home meth labs on the rise it is critical landlord’s understand who they are renting to, especially small unit or single dwelling landlords. The cost of clean-up, the loss of income, and the potential inability to sell a property is a significant concern.”
TenantScreeningUSA.com offers comprehensive tenant screening packages that will assist property owners in making important decisions about who they rent their properties. For more information or to create an account visit TenantScreeningUSA.com
