Drug Contamination in Rental Properties: What Landlords & Tenants Need to Know
Hidden behind closed doors, rental properties can sometimes be used for illegal drug activity — and even after the people are gone, the contamination they leave behind can put future tenants at risk.
Whether it’s a home used for meth (ice) smoking or a full illegal drug lab, the residue left behind is toxic, invisible to the eye, and dangerous to your health. That’s where Dunrite Decon comes in — restoring properties safely, discreetly and professionally.
How Drug Contamination Happens
1. Meth Labs (Clandestine Drug Labs)
These setups create highly toxic chemical residue that soaks into walls, ceilings, carpets and air-conditioning systems. Even after the lab is removed, contamination remains.
2. Ice or Meth Smoking Inside the Property
Even when a drug lab isn’t present, regular smoking inside a home leaves behind harmful meth residue that clings to surfaces — similar to nicotine stains, but invisible and far more dangerous.
Why It’s a Serious Problem
| Risk | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Health Risks | Headaches, nausea, behavioural changes, respiratory issues — especially in children, babies and pregnant women. |
| Legal Obligations | Landlords have a duty to provide a safe, habitable home. Renting out a contaminated property can lead to fines, lawsuits and insurance issues. |
| Property Damage | Contamination seeps into air-con units, curtains, plasterboard and flooring — normal cleaning or repainting won’t fix it. |
| Financial Impact | Loss of rent, property devaluation, uninsured damage, and costly repairs if not addressed early. |
Warning Signs a Property May Be Contaminated
While contamination is often invisible and odourless, some signs include:
Strong chemical or ammonia-like smells
Burn marks on benches, bathtubs or sinks
Blacked-out windows, exhaust fans running constantly
Unusual stains on walls, ceilings or carpets
Excessive or odd cleaning attempts before vacating
Tenants showing unexplained health symptoms (headaches, insomnia, rashes)
Testing and Decontamination — Why You Shouldn’t DIY
Drug residue can’t be scrubbed away with household cleaners. In fact, DIY cleaning can spread contamination deeper into walls and ducts.
Dunrite Decon’s Professional Process:
✔ Initial inspection & lab-certified surface testing
✔ Full contamination report & remediation plan
✔ Safe removal of contaminated materials when required
✔ Deep decontamination using industry-approved methods
✔ Post-clean testing to ensure the property is 100% safe
✔ Certificate of Decontamination for records, insurers and future tenants
Landlord & Property Manager Responsibilities
Under Australian tenancy laws:
A rental property must be safe, clean and fit to live in.
If contamination is suspected, the landlord must take action.
Failing to address the issue could result in legal liability, fines or loss of insurance cover.
Property managers should arrange testing before re-leasing a property if drug use or a lab is suspected.
How to Protect Your Property
✅ Conduct regular inspections and document everything
✅ Be alert to unusual tenant behaviour or emergency call-outs
✅ Test properties after suspicious activity, police attendance or sudden tenant evacuation
✅ Avoid painting over or replacing carpet — this won’t remove contamination
✅ Call professionals like Dunrite Decon at the first sign of risk
Why Choose Dunrite Decon?
✔ Fully licensed meth and biohazard decontamination experts
✔ Discreet, respectful, and non-judgemental service
✔ Lab-certified testing and clearance documentation
✔ Over 27 years of trusted experience in Queensland homes
✔ Making homes safe again — done once, done Dunrite
Final Thought
Drug contamination isn’t always visible — but the dangers are real. Don’t leave it to chance. Whether you’re a landlord, tenant, property manager or homeowner, Dunrite Decon is here to protect your health, your home and your peace of mind.

Common Situations Where Decon Is Needed
🧪 What Is Methamphetamine Contamination?

Don’t take risks when it comes to meth contamination. Dunrite Decon is here to protect your home, rental, or business with expert meth testing and decontamination services in Brisbane. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and take the first step towards a safer property!