Renovating, demolishing, or even buying a property in New York? If you’re not thinking about what’s hidden behind the walls, you could be missing a major compliance risk—and a serious health hazard. That’s where a Hazardous Materials Survey comes in.
Whether you’re a building owner, contractor, or property developer, understanding the role of hazardous materials surveys is essential to keeping your project legal, safe, and on track.
What Is a Hazardous Materials Survey?
A Hazardous Materials Survey is a formal inspection used to identify dangerous substances in buildings and on construction sites. These materials can include:
- Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in insulation, tiles, or pipe wrap
- Lead-based paint (LBP), especially in homes built before 1978
- Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in old electrical equipment or caulk
- Mold or other indoor air quality hazards
- Mercury, fluorescent lamps, and universal waste
- Radon or vapor intrusion risks in basements or confined spaces
Once these hazards are identified, the survey outlines where they are located, their condition, and what steps are needed to remove or manage them safely.
Why it Matters in New York
In New York City and across the state, regulations are clear: you can’t disturb building materials until you know what’s in them. That means hazardous materials surveys are often legally required before you:
- Renovate or demolish a structure
- Apply for building permits (especially with NYC DOB)
- Undertake a HUD-funded or capital project
- Redevelop a brownfield site
- Conduct a Phase I or Phase II Environmental Site Assessment (ESA)
- Transfer ownership of a commercial or multifamily property
Failing to comply doesn’t just put workers and future occupants at risk—it could also halt your project or lead to serious fines.
Who Conducts the Hazardous Materials Survey?
Only licensed professionals can conduct hazardous materials surveys in NY. Depending on the materials and scope, this may include:
- Asbestos Inspectors certified by NYSDOH
- Lead-Based Paint Risk Assessors/Inspectors certified by the EPA
- Environmental scientists trained in mold, radon, and other hazards
At CORE Environmental Consultants, our team includes fully certified staff who understand New York’s complex regulatory landscape.
What’s In the Report?
After the inspection and sampling, you’ll receive a detailed report that outlines:
- The types and locations of hazardous materials
- Laboratory analysis of collected samples
- Recommendations for abatement or management
- Photos and drawings for easy reference
- Compliance notes referencing OSHA, EPA, NYSDEC, NYCDEP, and other applicable regulations
This document is often required by contractors, building departments, and permitting agencies before any physical work begins.
When Should You Schedule a Survey?
The earlier, the better. We recommend scheduling a hazardous materials survey:
- Before design begins – to avoid costly changes later
- During due diligence – especially for investors and developers
- Prior to pulling permits – many agencies require this documentation
- Before bidding out demolition or renovation work – so contractors know what they’re dealing with
In NYC, hazardous materials surveys are standard practice for renovation, demolition, and redevelopment projects—especially when regulatory oversight or federal funding is involved.
Final Thoughts
Hazardous materials surveys must comply with a range of federal, state, and local regulations. In New York State, agencies often refer to guidance such as the Empire State Development Hazardous Materials Survey Standards (PDF) to ensure thorough environmental review and safe redevelopment practices.
