Press Release  MassDEP Fines Sutton Realty Company for Asbestos and Solid Waste Violations at Commercial Property in Webster

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) fined C & R Realty Holdings, LLC, of Sutton $82,309 for violations of asbestos and solid waste regulations that occurred at a commercial property in Webster. 

Responding to a complaint from the Town of Webster, MassDEP personnel inspected the site and determined that C & R Realty was operating its property as a solid waste facility without approvals from the town or authorization from MassDEP. Department personnel also observed that C & R Realty had improperly removed asbestos-containing insulation from an industrial heat-treating oven at the property and left the material in a pile on site. 

MassDEP required C & R Realty to retain a licensed asbestos contractor to properly abate the contaminated pile. MassDEP also required C & R Realty to clean up and remove the accumulated solid waste from the property. 

"Contractors doing renovation work need to be aware of the requirements to identify asbestos-containing materials and to ensure that those materials are safely removed before beginning any work. Since asbestos is a known carcinogen, it is particularly important that contractors follow all inspection requirements and work practices to protect workers and the public,” said Mary Jude Pigsley, Director of MassDEP’s Central Regional Office in Worcester. “In this case, violation of the asbestos regulations has resulted in significant penalties, as well as escalated cleanup and decontamination costs.”

Property owners or contractors with questions about asbestos-containing materials; notification requirements; proper removal, handling, packaging, storage and disposal procedures; or the asbestos regulations are encouraged to contact their local MassDEP Regional Office for assistance. 

MassDEP’s mission is to protect and enhance the Commonwealth’s natural resources – air, water and land – to provide for the health, safety and welfare of all people, and to ensure a clean and safe environment for future generations. In carrying out this mission, MassDEP commits to address and advance environmental justice and equity for all people of the Commonwealth; to provide meaningful, inclusive opportunities for people to participate in agency decisions that affect their lives; and to ensure a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve. 

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