A South Hadley landlord is facing several thousands of dollars in fines by the state Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) for violating asbestos regulations.

L. Philip Lizotte Jr. has agreed to pay $16,000 in penalties, while the balance of the $28,797.50 penalty has been suspended provided he remains in compliance with the state’s asbestos regulations for a period of one year.

The violations were discovered during a MassDEP investigation into alleged illegal asbestos thermal insulation removal activities at a two-family rental property in Holyoke, according to a statement.

In January, MassDEP conducted a site investigation and determined that Lizotte had removed asbestos thermal insulation from the basement of the property and placed the asbestos into trash bags. While disposing the asbestos, authorities said Lizotte did not employ the proper asbestos-handling, notification and disposal procedures. Remnant asbestos insulation remained in the basement and on the ground outside of the building.

"Improper removal and handling of asbestos-containing materials places tenants, as well as the general public at risk," said Michael Gorski, director of MassDEP’s Western regional office in Springfield. "When properly followed, the asbestos regulations provide for the protection of public health and the environment."