Illegal clandestine drug labs may pose a health threat to unsuspecting home buyers or renters. Typically, these labs have been used to manufacture methamphetamine, commonly referred to as meth, speed or crank.  After an illegal meth lab is discovered by law enforcement officials, the bulk of lab-related materials, including chemicals and containers, is usually removed. However, it is still possible that small amounts of contaminants may have been left behind on floors, walls, counters, carpets, furniture, sinks, drains and ventilation systems. Though usually found in small amounts, meth lab contaminants may pose health threats to persons exposed to them.

Methamphetamine clandestine drug laboratories can be located in motels; in rural areas away from the general public; and in residential areas, including houses, apartments and garages. Mobile labs have also been found in vehicles and discarded along roadsides or parking lots.

Meth labs often have an unusually sweet or strong odor such as ether, ammonia or auto parts cleaner. The windows of buildings are often covered, blacked out or frosted. Sporadic traffic throughout the day and night and trash containing large amounts of empty anti-freeze containers, camping fuel cans, battery parts, stained coffee filters, drain cleaners and glassware are common signs of meth labs.