HNZC takes 'zero tolerance' approach to methamphetamine

Housing New Zealand has a zero tolerance approach to the use or manufacture of methamphetamine, or any other illegal activity, in its homes and will move swiftly to evict tenants where it occurs. Housing New Zealand communicates this very clearly to all its tenants, and will pursue tenants for costs associated with property damage caused through illegal drug use. "Contamination from P use is preventing vulnerable people on the social housing register from getting access to a home as cleaning and remediation can take up to three months in serious situations," says Housing New Zealand Chief Executive Glen Sowry. "Not only is consuming meth detrimental to the health of our tenant, but it also affects their family. We do call in other agencies, such as the Police and Child, Youth and Family, to ensure the safety of dependant children exposed to meth contamination," he says. The use and manufacture of illicit drugs, particularly methamphetamine, is an issue facing societies all around the world - it’s not just a Housing New Zealand problem. P use in New Zealand in non discriminatory - it is used by people of all ages, backgrounds and social standing. "As the country's largest landlord we believe we can take a leadership role in this area. Over the last few years Housing New Zealand has placed greater focus on identifying homes where P may be used, or may have been used in the past (rather than just manufactured)," Mr Sowry says. "We rely on the vigilance of our frontline staff, and their close relationship with the police and a network of other stakeholders to identify homes that may be contaminated." "We are currently developing extensive policy guidelines that reflect this greater understanding of the extent of this issue, which we will ultimately look to share with other social housing providers, private landlords and the wider residential property market."