If you currently own a property or want to buy property, there are a number of ways that you can tell if there had been an illegal drug lab on the site.
The first step would be to talk to your neighbors. They may be able to give you some history of the home and tell you something of the previous occupants. Remember to ask them about any suspicious activity, smells, traffic, or excessive amounts of trash that they might have noticed around the home.
Next, look around the home for signs of illegal drug labs. Remember to check both inside and outside. Some signs that are indicative of clandestine lab activity are:
- Visible areas in the yard where chemicals may have been dumped
- Burn piles around the yard with signs of meth ingredients
- Dead or dying vegetation
- Dark stains from chemicals in sinks, toilets, bathtubs, or on the walls
- Empty packaging containers from chemicals and cold medicines.
- Signs of chemical spills or burns
- Chemical odors, such as ammonia or solvents
Finally, check with your local law enforcement to see if they have a record of illegal drug labs on or around the property. For the Peru Police Department, their number is 472-2150. For Miami County, contact the Sheriff's Office at 472-1322.
Remember that if you suspect a meth lab on or near your property, contact local law enforcement immediately. In Miami County or Peru, call either 911 or the Anonymous Meth Hotline at 800-453-4756.