A cleaned up lot in Altadena (Photo – Melissa Michelson)
On November 6, 2025, Eaton Fire Residents United (EFRU), a grassroots organization advocating for survivors of the Eaton Fire, released alarming new findings showing that, even after professional remediation, toxic contamination remains widespread in homes affected by the disaster.
By News Desk
According to the group’s report, more than half of the standing homes within the region where ash from the Eaton Fire settled still contain dangerous levels of lead. In addition, one-third of those homes show significant asbestos contamination, despite cleanup efforts specifically designed to remove such toxins.
“I am deeply alarmed by the findings released by the Eaton Fire Residents United (EFRU), which show that despite remediation efforts, our neighbors and loved ones are still at risk of exposure to high levels of lead and asbestos that remain in their homes,” said Rep. Chu in a statement responding to the report. “Many of the homes tested have levels of contamination high enough for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to require further remediation efforts, and we know that exposure to these toxins can lead to serious health consequences like cancer and brain damage.”
Rep. Chu called the situation “unacceptable,” noting that as compensation for temporary housing runs out, many survivors are being forced to choose between living in unsafe conditions or facing displacement.
“These findings make it clear that we must take further action to protect the health and wellbeing of our neighbors, loved ones, and environment,” Chu continued. She urged Governor Gavin Newsom, California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, and the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors to adopt a “Clearance Before Occupancy” standard to ensure that homes are certified free from toxins before residents return.
Chu also called on Commissioner Lara to require insurance companies to cover testing and multiple rounds of remediation until homes are cleared, and to immediately extend Additional Living Expense (ALE) coverage to support displaced families.
Finally, Chu urged Governor Newsom to declare an official “Ash Zone” to formally recognize homes outside the direct burn area that were nonetheless affected by ash and smoke. Such a designation, she said, would help residents access compensation, remediation assistance, and long-term health protections.
EFRU’s findings underscore ongoing health and safety concerns in the aftermath of the Eaton Fire, raising urgent questions about the effectiveness of post-fire cleanup standards and the state’s responsibility to ensure safe reentry for survivors.
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