FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — As wildfires continue to burn along the California coast and in communities across the state, evacuation orders and warnings remain in effect in some areas.
But even after evacuation orders are lifted, experts say homeowners should not assume their properties are safe simply because the flames never reached them.
Homes located miles from a wildfire can still be affected by smoke, soot and ash. Homeowners are being urged to check several areas, including the air inside the home, the foundation and paint, as well as windows and skylights.
Environmental testing and cleaning companies can be a good place to start when determining whether a home has been contaminated and what cleanup may be necessary.
Experts also warn against simply washing down walls with dish soap if a thin layer of soot or ash is found inside the home or on furniture. Smoke damage can contain hazardous contaminants that require professional testing and cleaning.
The issue gained renewed attention following the devastating 2025 Los Angeles-area wildfires. According to CalMatters, more than 13,000 insurance claims involved smoke damage.
Many homeowners whose properties survived the fires have said they faced months, and in some cases years, of delays while waiting for testing, cleanup and insurance payments.
Now, two bills on Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk could change how California handles wildfire smoke damage.
If signed, the legislation could make California the first state in the nation to establish specific standards for wildfire smoke damage.
Assembly Bill 16-42 would establish statewide standards for testing and removing contaminants such as lead and asbestos.
Assembly Bill 17-95 would require insurers to follow those standards, inspect properties within 30 days and pay for necessary testing.
The legislation comes as wildfire survivors accuse some insurers of delaying or denying smoke-damage claims.
Supporters say the bills would give wildfire survivors clearer rules and stronger protections when dealing with smoke and ash contamination.
Newsom has until the end of September to decide whether to sign the legislation into law.