AB 1642 takes effect January 1, 2027, establishing new science-based testing, remediation, and clearance standards for buildings affected by urban wildfires, including requirements addressing hazardous lead and asbestos contamination. These standards will help determine whether rental properties have been adequately remediated under the safety obligations established by SB 610. With potential insurance deadlines approaching as early as January 7, 2027, landlords need to act now. Those who have not filed a claim, or whose properties were cleaned without comprehensive lead and asbestos testing, should contact their insurers immediately about filing, reopening, or supplementing their claims. Missing an applicable deadline for insurance could leave landlords still responsible for testing and additional remediation out of pocket, potentially costing landlords at a minimum tens of thousands of dollars.
Important for renters: These standards will help inform how landlords meet their wildfire-related habitability obligations under SB 610. Homes that have been cleaned but not properly tested may still contain hazardous contamination.
Action: Landlords should contact their insurers and, where appropriate, legal counsel now to protect their rights before applicable deadlines expire. To learn more, visit StandingHomes.LA.