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...Meth," illegal, potent and addictive central nervous system stimulant. These labs can create tremendous headaches and potential liability for property owners.
The problem is not isolated to the apartment sector. It affects all sectors of the real estate industry,, including commercial buildings, mobile homes and single-family housing because these labs do not need a lot of space to operate. In July, the U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) testified before the House Committee on Government Reform that "a growing number of small, dangerous clandestine laboratories are straining communities and state and local police forces." An estimated 50 percent of all clandestine labs are now found on rental property. Using just one state as an example, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment reported that the number of clandestine lab seizures increased from 150 in 1999 to 452 in 2001.
While law enforcement authorities typically handle the initial investigation of these labs, properly owners are often responsible for subsequent decontamination, which can be costly. Unfortunately, there are no federal standards designating when a former lab is again safe for habitation, leaving owners to choose among numerous expensive decontamination strategies and with uncertain insurance coverage.
This article is based on a recently released members-only NAA/NMHC guidance document titled "Cleaning Up Crystal Methamphetamine Labs in Apartment Properties," which describes the problem and offers guidance on what to do if owners suspect or encounter a clandestine lab.
What is Crystal Meth?
Crystal meth, a Schedule II controlled substance, is a synthetic central nervous system stimulant. It goes by a number of street names, including speed, ice, chalk, fire and glass. It is sold in many forms, including pills, capsules, powder or chunks, and it can be snorted, smoked, injected or taken orally.
Crystal...
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