Clandestine Laboratories
Independent clandestine drug lab assessments and contamination testing — supporting safe remediation and regulatory compliance.
Why Clandestine Lab Sites Require Expert Attention
Clandestine drug labs often involve volatile, toxic, and corrosive substances — including ammonia, phosphine, iodine, and organic solvents — used in the manufacture of methamphetamine or other synthetic drugs. These substances can contaminate indoor surfaces, soil, plumbing, and HVAC systems, posing risks of:
Respiratory irritation and chemical burns
Long-term health effects, especially for children and vulnerable occupants
Environmental contamination of groundwater or stormwater
Legal liability for owners, landlords, and developers if not properly managed
NSW authorities, including NSW Health and local councils, require that suspected clan lab sites be assessed by a qualified environmental consultant, with clearance documentation provided before reoccupation or redevelopment.
Our Services – From Site Risk to Clearance
Preliminary Site Assessment
We begin with a desktop review and site inspection, identifying signs of past or current drug manufacturing. This includes evaluating:
Police or fire reports
Visual indicators of chemical contamination
Odours, staining, and residue on walls or surfaces
Improvised lab setups, ventilation modifications, or suspicious storage
Where potential contamination is identified, we recommend targeted sampling and notify appropriate authorities if required.
Contamination Testing & Laboratory Analysis
We conduct surface wipe sampling, bulk material sampling, and in some cases, soil or water testing to identify chemical residues such as:
Methamphetamine and related precursors
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Heavy metals or acid/base residues
Chemical by-products from manufacture
Samples are analysed by NATA-accredited laboratories, with results compared to recognised screening levels and health guidelines (e.g. NEPM, NSW Health protocols).
Remediation Scope & Clearance Support
If contamination is confirmed, we prepare a Remediation Action Plan (RAP) that outlines:
The extent of contamination
Recommended cleaning, removal, or encapsulation methods
Waste management and health protection measures
Validation criteria for successful remediation
We also oversee remediation works, coordinate post-remediation testing, and issue a final clearance report confirming that the site meets reoccupation criteria. Our documentation is accepted by NSW Health, councils, insurers, and property managers.
Who We Support
We provide expert assistance to:
Real estate agents and property managers
Insurance companies handling meth lab claims
Builders and demolition contractors working on high-risk properties
Councils, housing providers, and community agencies
Homeowners, buyers, or sellers responding to property history concerns
Environmental health officers requiring third-party verification
Whether you’re planning remediation, lodging an insurance claim, or dealing with a complaint, we ensure the process is safe, compliant, and defensible.
Why Choose Confluence Environmental?
Independent and experienced environmental consultants
Clear, compliant documentation accepted by NSW authorities
Fast turnaround for sampling, reporting, and clearance
Sensitive, discreet handling of property access and reporting
Trusted across NSW by insurers, councils, agents, and developers
We focus on health risk, legal compliance, and professional integrity — not scare tactics or upselling.
Where We Work
We provide clandestine lab assessments and support services across:
Greater Sydney
Central Coast
Newcastle & Lake Macquarie
Hunter Valley and Upper Hunter
South Coast, Mid North Coast, and regional NSW
Need expert advice?
Concerned about contamination from a suspected drug lab? Need support managing remediation, tenant complaints, or sale conditions?
Call 04943 042 642 or book online to request a confidential site visit or quote.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Clandestine Laboratories
Q: How do I know if a property was used as a drug lab?
Common indicators include strong chemical odours, yellowing walls, corrosion of metal surfaces, or staining around vents and drains. You may also find makeshift ventilation systems, unusual chemical containers, or damage consistent with tampering. If police or fire services have responded to the property in the past, it may have been flagged as a clan lab site.
We conduct thorough site inspections and desktop reviews to confirm whether contamination is likely.
Q: Is methamphetamine residue dangerous?
Yes. Residues left behind from methamphetamine manufacture or smoking can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled. This can lead to respiratory problems, behavioural changes, sleep disturbances, skin rashes, and long-term health risks, especially for children and vulnerable occupants. The contamination is often invisible and persists for years if not remediated.
Q: What kind of testing is done on clan lab sites?
We collect surface wipe samples from walls, benchtops, and ventilation areas to test for:
Methamphetamine and precursor chemicals
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Acid/base residues and chemical by-products
In some cases, we may also test dust, soil, plumbing, or HVAC systems depending on the nature of the site. All samples are analysed by NATA-accredited laboratories.
Q: What happens if contamination is confirmed?
If contamination is confirmed, we develop a remediation scope of works tailored to the property. This outlines what needs to be cleaned, removed, or sealed, and the criteria for successful validation.
Once remediation is completed (by a qualified contractor), we conduct post-remediation sampling and issue a clearance report, confirming the property is safe for reoccupation or sale.
Q: Do I need a clearance certificate to reoccupy or sell a former clan lab?
Yes. Many councils, insurers, and property managers require a clearance certificate before a property flagged as a drug lab can be reoccupied or sold. This provides legal assurance that contamination has been addressed in line with NSW Health and environmental guidelines.
We provide formal clearance documentation accepted by authorities across NSW.
Q: Can I just clean it myself?
No. Attempting to clean a suspected clan lab without professional advice is dangerous and often ineffective. DIY cleaning can spread contamination, increase exposure risk, and leave you open to liability. Always consult a qualified environmental professional before touching or renovating a suspected lab site.