New York State has issued clarifications on asbestos survey requirements, emphasizing the importance of safety and legal compliance. An asbestos survey by a certified NYSDOL Asbestos Inspector is required before any demolition, renovation, remodel, or repair work. If no survey is done, the building must be assumed to contain asbestos, which means treating it as an asbestos project with all the precautions and processes that entail. This clarification reinforces the need for everyone, from inspectors to contractors to property owners, to follow the same standard, regardless of building age. Failure to comply with these requirements can lead to non-compliance with NYS law, potential fines, project delays, and liability issues.