Essential Wildfire Recovery in Altadena and Inspections for Your Home & Property
The recent wildfire in Altadena has left our community facing different levels of devastation. Some homes have partial damage—surviving the flames but filled with smoke and soot. Others are completely destroyed, leaving behind only ash and debris. And for those looking to rebuild or sell vacant land, the risks of hidden hazards like asbestos, lead, and chemical contamination remain. Wildfire recovery in Altadena, CA is therefore critical.
At Funguy Inspections and Consulting, we understand that wildfire recovery in Altadena, CA isn’t just about rebuilding—it’s about ensuring safety first. As licensed and certified inspectors, we specialize in post-fire assessments, helping homeowners, landowners, and buyers navigate the complex process of hazard testing, structural evaluations, and environmental safety checks.
What to Do After a Wildfire: A Detailed Guide Based on Your Situation
1. If Your Home Has Partial Damage (Smoke, Soot, or Structural Concerns)
Even if the fire didn’t fully consume your home, toxic residues and structural weaknesses can linger. Here’s what you need:
Air Quality Testing
- Wildfire smoke leaves behind fine particulate matter (PM2.5), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and carbon monoxide, which can persist long after the fire.
- We test indoor air to ensure it’s safe before you move back in. If you have moved in already, the test will tell you where you stand. It is not too late.
- HVAC inspection: Smoke particles can infiltrate ducts, spreading contaminants every time the system runs.
Smoke & Soot Damage Assessment
Not all types of damages will be visible. While at severe levels, soot and smoke will be visible, they may not be too obvious. They can easily pass for a faded painting.
- Soot is acidic and can corrode metals, electronics, and appliances if not properly cleaned.
- Porous materials such as carpets, drywall, insulation may need replacement if deeply contaminated.
- Odor removal requires specialized cleaning—not just masking sprays.
Structural Safety Inspection
Inspect the roof, frames, electrical, plumbing systems, and the foundation.
- Roof & framing integrity: Heat can weaken wooden beams and melt roofing materials.
- Electrical & plumbing systems: Fire can damage wiring, leading to short circuits or leaks.
- Foundation cracks: Extreme heat and water from firefighting can cause shifting.
2. If Your Property Is a Pile of Debris (Total Loss)
A completely burned structure still requires critical safety inspections before cleanup or rebuilding.
Hazardous Material Testing
- Asbestos: It is common in homes built before 1980. It is found in insulation, flooring, and siding. When burned, fibers become airborne and extremely dangerous.
- Lead-based paint: Some older homes may have lead dust in the ash, requiring an EPA-certified clean-up.
- Heavy metals: Burnt electronics, batteries, and plumbing can leave behind toxins like mercury and cadmium.
Debris Removal & Soil Contamination Checks
The LA County requires proper disposal of fire debris to prevent secondary contamination. It is imperative that you comply with the disposal regulations.
Soil testing is also recommended. It checks for arsenic, benzene, and other chemicals that may have seeped into the ground.
Water runoff impact is also imperative. Fire debris can pollute nearby streams and groundwater.
Safety During Clean-up
- Do NOT disturb ash without protective gear such as N95 masks, gloves, and coveralls.
- Wet down debris to minimize dust inhalation.
- Hire certified professionals for hazardous material removal.
3. If You’re Selling or Rebuilding on an Empty Lot
Even if the structure is gone, the land itself may carry risks that affect future construction or sale value. The debris pileup comes with significantly high levels of risk. Hence the need for the following risks.
Pre-Purchase or Pre-Rebuild Land Inspection
- Toxic residue testing: Chemicals from burned homes such as pesticides, cleaning agents, fuels can linger in soil.
- Underground hazards: Burnt septic tanks, fuel storage, or old foundations may need removal.
- Erosion & stability: Fire weakens soil, increasing landslide risks in hilly areas like Altadena.
Water Quality Testing for Well Owners
- Wildfires can introduce benzene, heavy metals, and other pollutants into groundwater.
- Municipal water lines may also need flushing if contaminated by firefighting chemicals.
Geotechnical Assessment
- Slope stability: Fire destroys vegetation that holds soil in place, increasing erosion.
- Landscaping impact: Burnt trees and roots can destabilize the ground.
Why Professional Inspections Are Critical
Many wildfire survivors assume that once the flames are gone, the danger is over. But hidden risks remain:
- Asbestos exposure can cause lung cancer and mesothelioma.
- Lead poisoning especially dangerous for children can come from old paint dust.
- Silica dust from concrete and drywall debris leads to respiratory diseases.
Cutting corners on inspections can delay permits, harm your health, or reduce property value.
Altadena & LA County Wildfire Recovery Resources
- LA County Office of Emergency Management: recovery.lacounty.gov
- DTSC Hazardous Waste Cleanup: dtsc.ca.gov/wildfire-recovery
- EPA Wildfire Safety Guide: epa.gov/natural-disasters/wildfires
Don’t Guess—Test. Protect Your Family & Investment.
At Funguy Inspections and Consulting, we provide thorough, certified inspections to help you rebuild safely and confidently.
Contact Us Today for a Post-Fire Inspection
Serving Altadena & Surrounding Areas
