In March this year, when members of the Victoria Police clandestine laboratory squad discovered a methamphetamine laboratory in the downstairs laundry, they removed the evidence, including chemicals and cookware used to make drugs, but left behind a property contaminated with toxic chemical residue.

In many such premises, the majority of which are rental properties, are left in the hands of standard cleaners - potentially putting the health of both the cleaners and future residents at risk, according to chemical toxicology experts. From The Age.com.au.