New law would disclose former meth labs

AUSTIN (KXAN) - If you live in an apartment or leased property, you could be living in a former meth lab without even knowing it. Some state lawmakers are trying to change that with the introduction of House Bill 23.

Rep. David Leibowitz of San Antonio introduced the bill that would protect renters and put pressure on landlords to be up front with potential tenants. Homesellers are required by law to let potential buyers know if the property they are selling was a former meth lab. However, landlords are not required to disclose that information to prospective tenants.

Methamphetamine contamination is a problem that hides in walls, carpets, clothes and paint, and the contamination kills family pets and makes babies sick. Kirk Flippin specializes in meth lab decontamination, and his company, Texas Decon, was cleaning up a former meth lab Monday after a family living at the residence had no idea it was used to create meth.

Flippin said the family's pet died because of the contamination, and family bicycles even had to be thrown in the dumpster.  Flippin said he hopes lawmakers pass the bill.

"Criminals have more rights than the people now living in the home," said Flippin.

If you suspect your home may be contaminated, you can call the Austin Fire Department.
 

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