29 Jun 2017

New meth testing standards released

1:40 pm on 29 June 2017

The government has released new higher methamphetamine testing and contamination standards for residential properties.

The previous Health Ministry guidelines were criticised for being far too low, resulting in unnecessary evictions of tenants and costly clean-ups.

The new standards are 1.5 micrograms per 100 square centimetres for bedrooms, living areas, kitchens, sheds or garages.

That is up from 0.5 micrograms.

Consumers Affairs Minister Jacqui Dean said the new standards would help clean up an industry that has been dogged by inconsistent tests and excessive decontamination costs.

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