5 Most Common Drug Cleanup Mistakes Property Managers Make

Managing a rental property is tough, do not make it harder when dealing with drug cleanup

Washington state has one of the highest drug overdose death rates, way higher than the US average. Reported by the Unviersity of Washington “fentanyl has increased in prominence, from less than 9% of crime lab submissions in 2020 to 58% in 2023.”. Safe to say-unfortunately- we’re in the midst of an epidemic.

Managing rental or commercial properties comes with a unique set of challenges—especially when a property has been affected by drug activity. From meth labs to fentanyl contamination,
the risks are serious, and the cleanup must be handled with extreme caution. Unfortunately, many property managers make critical errors during the remediation process that increase liability and cost.
If you’re overseeing a building that requires professional sanitation, here are five major mistakes to avoid when it comes to drug cleanup Tacoma property managers may encounter.

If you’re overseeing a building that requires professional sanitation, here are five major mistakes to avoid when it comes to drug cleanup Tacoma property managers may encounter.

1. Attempting DIY Remediation
   Trying to clean up a drug-affected unit yourself is not just dangerous—it’s potentially illegal. Substances like meth or fentanyl can remain in porous materials and cause harm long after drug activity ends. For drug cleanup Tacoma requires certified professionals who follow EPA and OSHA regulations, like PuroClean Tacoma East.
2. Not Testing for Contaminants
   Surface stains or smells are not always obvious. Professional testing is required to determine the presence and extent of contamination. Skipping this step can result in costly repairs later or liability if a tenant becomes ill
3. Delaying Professional Cleanup
   The longer contamination sits, the harder it becomes to remediate. Delaying proper action also increases the risk of cross-contamination to shared HVAC systems or neighboring units
4. Ignoring State Regulations
   Washington has strict rules around hazardous waste removal and drug property remediation. Not following the correct procedures can lead to fines, lawsuits, or loss of your rental license
5. Choosing Inexperienced Vendors
   Not all cleaning companies are qualified for fentanyl or meth lab cleanup Tacoma properties require. Always hire certified technicians who specialize in hazardous material remediation and understand landlord responsibilities.

When it comes to drug cleanup Tacoma property managers need to act fast, follow protocol, and prioritize health and safety above all else. Mistakes in this area don’t just result in more time and money spent—they can lead to major legal liability and harm to future tenants.

The good news is, you don’t have to handle it alone. PuroClean of Tacoma East provides certified, discreet, and legally compliant drug cleanup services for property owners, landlords, and property management firms across Pierce County. Our experts are trained to identify contamination, contain hazardous zones, and fully remediate all affected areas to meet or exceed state and federal standards.
We offer detailed documentation for insurance claims, tenant reports, and legal protection—giving you peace of mind and a fully restored property.

Don’t take unnecessary risks with your property. Contact PuroClean of Tacoma East today for a confidential assessment or emergency response.We’re here 24/7 to support you with professional drug cleanup Tacoma can count on for safety and compliance.