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DOL Updates on Asbestos Surveys

By February 24, 2026No Comments2 min read

DOL Updates on Asbestos Surveys: What Contractors and Municipalities Should Know

The New York State Department of Labor (NYS DOL) has issued new guidance documents reinforcing the importance of asbestos surveys before renovation, repair, remodeling, or demolition projects. While the rules under Industrial Code Rule 56 (12 NYCRR Part 56) have not changed, these fact sheets signal an increased emphasis on prevention and front-end enforcement.

Key Takeaways from the DOL Guidance:

  1. Guidance for Municipalities (P230):
    • Municipalities are encouraged to request asbestos surveys before issuing permits.
    • They may contact the DOL when surveys are missing or incomplete.
    • Information should be shared with permit staff and applicants to ensure compliance.
  2. Guidance for Building Permit Applicants (P231):
    • Asbestos surveys are required before renovation, demolition, or remodeling.
    • Only licensed asbestos contractors may disturb asbestos-containing materials (ACM).
    • Unsafe or condemned buildings must be assumed to contain asbestos.
    • Homeowner exemptions are very limited.

Why This Matters:
These guidance documents indicate that the DOL is emphasizing prevention over reactive enforcement. Contractors, property owners, and municipal staff should anticipate:

  • More municipalities are requesting surveys as part of the permit process.
  • Increased referrals to the DOL when surveys are missing or incomplete.
  • Heightened scrutiny on compliance with asbestos survey requirements.

Organizations that already follow proper survey procedures benefit from this proactive approach, helping protect the industry from unqualified work and unsafe conditions.

Next Steps for Compliance:

  • Familiarize your team with DOL fact sheets P230 and P231.
  • Ensure asbestos surveys are conducted by New York State-certified inspectors before work begins.
  • Maintain documentation to provide to municipalities and the DOL if requested.

Download these documents by clicking EAST Resources / NYS Asbestos Survey.

How Encorus Group Can Help

If your project involves older buildings—or even newer structures that require renovation—professional asbestos surveys are essential. The Encorus RBM team provides asbestos survey services across NY, PA, OH, CT, NJ, and VT to ensure compliance and safety. Contact Sean Fitzgerald at 716.592.3980 ext 187 or sfitzgerald@encorus.com for assistance.

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