Methamphetamine Regulations Gazetted - Effective 16 April 2026

The Residential Tenancies (Managing Methamphetamine Contamination) Regulations 2026 have now been announced and will come into affect on 16 April 2026.

These regulations introduce defined contamination thresholds and prescribed processes for testing and managing methamphetamine in rental properties.  For the first time, there is a maximum acceptable level for contamination and a seperate maximum inhabitable level that may trigger termination provisions under the Residential Tenancies Act 1986.

The regulations set a maximum acceptable contamination level of 15µg/100 cm² and a maximum inhabitable level of 30µg/100 cm².  If contamination exceeds these levels, landlords will have specific obligations around testing, decontamination, and in some cases tenancy termination.

They also clarify when testing is mandatory, how it must be carried out, and the process that must be followed if decontamination is required.

This provides long-awaited clarity for our industry, but it also introduces secific compliance obligations that property managers need to understand.

We are working closely with REINZ and our business partners to develop training, practical guidance, and operational tools so our property managers are well prepared and ready to implement these chnages with confidence when they come into effect.