BUILDING INSPECTOR

Inspector testifies he faked asbestos reports in New York City building tests

April 27, 2010 – A New York City safety inspector licensed to evaluate asbestos health risks in city buildings, testified in Manhattan federal court yesterday that he filed more than 200 reports for buildings and construction sites that he never inspected.

The fraud, which reportedly spanned a decade, has led to an investigation into the work of New York City’s asbestos and lead inspectors. Currently, in the New York metropolitan area, approximately 1,500 people hold certifications to test for lead or asbestos.

Building inspector fraud

It is still unclear whether the inspector, 68, received bribes for the bogus reports. Building owners, management firms and contractors could have saved substantial sums of money by allowing the demolition of buildings without first performing costly and legally required asbestos abatement.

Some officials fear this is just the tip of the iceberg. There are now six other unrelated federal cases under way exploring allegations of similar practices in New York City.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, inhaling airborne asbestos dust is known to cause fatal asbestos-related diseases that include mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer. The long-term effects of lead exposure in children and adults can be debilitating, as well.

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