A detailed test at a rental in May 2026 finds methamphetamine at 18 µg/100 cm² in one bedroom and below 5 everywhere else. What do the 2026 regulations require?
Correct Answer
A) The bedroom is contaminated and must be decontaminated to 15 µg/100 cm² or below.
The Residential Tenancies (Managing Methamphetamine Contamination) Regulations 2026, in force from 16 April 2026, set a maximum acceptable level of 15 µg/100 cm² (reg 5). Premises are contaminated if any part is above it, and the landlord must decontaminate using the prescribed process. The 30 µg/100 cm² maximum inhabitable level (reg 6) triggers the termination rules in s 59B.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Regulation 5 sets 15 µg/100 cm² as the maximum acceptable level, and 18 exceeds it.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option B: Nothing, because the level is below the 30 µg/100 cm² maximum acceptable level.
Thirty is the maximum inhabitable level; the maximum acceptable level is 15, which 18 exceeds.
Option C: Nothing, because only readings over 1.5 µg/100 cm² in several rooms need action.
The 1.5 figure was the earlier NZS 8510:2017 limit; the 2026 regulations set 15 for any part of the premises.
Option D: The tenancy ends automatically and the whole house must be vacated.
Automatic ending is not how it works; the termination options arise only above 30.
Background Knowledge for Property Management
Source: https://www.legislation.govt.nz/secondary-legislation/pco-drafted/2026/24/en/latest/
Exam Tip for Property Management
Meth: above 15 means decontaminate; above 30 means the tenancy can be ended.
Common Mistakes to Avoid on Property Management Questions
- •Confusing the acceptable level (15) with the inhabitable level (30).
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