Toxins from meth labs are dangerous long after the lab has been removed. The toxins that are released while the drug is being made can linger in walls, fabrics, dishes and any other porous surfaces. There are so many labs across the country that more and more homes are being infested with these toxins.
Not all homes that have been used for meth manufacturing have been reported. The only ones that are reported are the ones the police have closed down. A lot of meth labs are never discovered. If you suspect your home was a meth lab you can have it tested for dangerous toxins.
There are companies who specialize in the cleanup procedure. You can probably find one through your local police department.
If the contamination is confined to certain parts of the property or house, the cleanup may be necessary in that area alone. Other parts of the house may not have to be cleaned. Cleanup can be a difficult job if the level of contamination is high and it is a large house. Ultimately, the property owner is responsible for the cleanup cost. Home insurance policies may cover part of the cleanup cost. There are three options a homeowner can take; decontaminate the property, demolish it or do nothing. But, if the home owner decides not to clean up the property, he may be legally responsible if people get sick after they enter a contaminated building.
According, to toxicity studies that have been done on humans and animals the chemicals used to manufacture meth can cause a range of health effects. These effects include cancer, damage to the brain, damage to the liver and kidneys, birth defects, and reproductive problems such as miscarriages.
Toxins can also be found in the water system of a property. Septic tank systems are especially vulnerable to contamination. Meth waste is often poured down sink drains and toilets. Sometimes the waste water runoff can kill vegetation, which is a sign the house was used for meth manufacturing. If toxins are found in the septic tank, the tank should be pumped out.
Cleanup can cost up to $100.000.00 or more. The walls have to be painted and sealed so the toxins cannot surface again. The carpet needs to be replaced. If there is serious contamination, everything has to be removed from the house. Some things can be cleaned, but some of them have to be disposed of as hazardous material.
Some states have laws that state owners must give full disclosure to buyers that the home or property has not been decontaminated. It seems that the old adage "Buyer Beware" is more valid than ever.
There is a website where meth lab houses are reported. Remember all houses are not reported, so you could still end up purchasing a home or property that has been used for meth manufacturing.
If you want to learn more about the health problems cause by meth chemicals
www.methlabhomes.com
If you want to find the address of reported meth lab houses
http://justice.gov/dea/seizures/index.html
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