Real Estate Authority issues updated guidance on methamphetamine disclosure
7 September 2026
The Registrar of the Real Estate Authority (REA) has published updated guidance to assist real estate licensees to ensure appropriate disclosure of methamphetamine contamination in real estate transactions.
REA reviewed its previous 2018 guidance following the Residential Tenancies (Managing Methamphetamine Contamination) Regulations 2026 (Tenancy Regulations) coming into force on 16 April 2026. REA’s determined that it should update its guidance to support consistency and certainty across the wider property sector and consumer protection needs.
REA Chief Executive Belinda Moffat acknowledged the contribution of stakeholders to the review.
“We sought technical advice on health risks from the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science (PHF Science) which was an important contribution to the review, and we also received constructive feedback on draft guidance from real estate sector representatives.”
We considered the perspectives raised in submissions during the development of the Tenancy Regulations. REA’s guidance is consistent with the new Tenancy Regulations and provides additional guidance for licensees who may encounter methamphetamine contaminated properties when undertaking real estate agency work.
REA Chief Executive Belinda Moffat says the updated guidance is focussed on protecting consumers and providing clarity for real estate professionals.
“Buying a property is a significant decision, and consumers need access to relevant information to make informed choices about a property including any potential risks.
“While the facts of any specific property’s circumstances will require real estate licensees to exercise good judgement, our updated guidance provides them with greater clarity about their responsibilities and helps support a consistent approach across the property sector.
Ultimately, this is about protecting consumers from harm and ensuring they have the information they need when making important property decisions.”
The revised guidance is available on rea.govt.nz.
https://www.rea.govt.nz/assets/2026-Uploads/Meth-guidance/2026-REA-Methamphetamine-Disclosure-Guidance.pdf
ENDS
For more information contact Aaron Alexander, Communications and Engagement Manager, Real Estate Authority, on 027 237 7196 or via media@rea.govt.nz
About REA
The Real Estate Authority (REA) is the independent government agency that regulates the conduct of licensed real estate professionals in New Zealand. We license people and companies working in real estate, provide oversight of the Code of Conduct, oversee the complaints and disciplinary process for poor conduct by licensees, provide education and guidance to licensees to assist them to meet their regulatory obligations, and provide information to consumers about the real estate transaction process. REA is governed by a Board. The Chair is Denese Bates KC. REA Chief Executive is Belinda Moffat.