Buying a contaminated property is not a light decision. The chemical waste and residues produced by cooking and smoking meth can make you, your family, and even your pets ill. In fact, that’s why it is illegal to enter a contaminated property without proper authorization, or unless you are the owner of record. (To clarifly, that means just the owner of record. By law, friends and family won’t be able to enter, even with your permission.) Furthermore, having meth in your home reduces the property value, at least until we have completed thorough decontamination. So, as you can see, there’s a lot to consider before making such a purchase.
You’ll also want to know that meth residue can coat all the structures and items within a building. Be prepared to replace the furnishings, tiles, carpet, and more. (The state of Utah requires that the current owner ensures successful decontamination whenever a property tests over 1.0µg/100cm². Once you’re the owner – that’s you, no matter who contaminated the property.) To make things even more complicated, because of low ventilation and little exposure to sunlight and microorganisms, meth can linger for decades, so it’s possible to purchase a contaminated home that’s been harboring meth for decades.
For all these reasons, we strongly recommend professional testing before you buy any home. And, of course, this is especially important before buying a contaminated property. Indeed, proper testing will inform you of the status of the home. It will also provide you with a consultation with a professional and guidance about any additional requirements.
To schedule your test or discuss your options for decontamination in Utah, call a Certified Decontamination Specialist in your area. If you’re in Utah, feel free to give us a call at (801) 888-6698.