The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced federal disaster assistance for California following the recent wildfires and straight-line winds that began on January 7, 2025. This move comes after President Biden issued a major disaster declaration for the state, making federal funding available to affected individuals in Los Angeles County.
Effective immediately, HUD is implementing several measures to assist those impacted by the disaster. These include a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures of mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and foreclosures of mortgages to Native American borrowers under the Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee program. Additionally, there is an automatic 90-day extension for Home Equity Conversion Mortgages.
Homeowners are advised to contact their mortgage or loan servicer promptly for assistance. Conventional mortgage holders may also be eligible for relief through their mortgage holder. For more information, homeowners can reach out to the FHA Resource Center at 1-800-304-9320 or visit the FHA Disaster Relief site.
HUD is also offering mortgage insurance through its Section 203(h) program for homes destroyed or severely damaged, allowing victims access to FHA insurance with participating lenders providing up to 100 percent financing including closing costs. Furthermore, HUD's Section 203(k) loan program enables individuals to finance both home purchase and repair through a single mortgage.
Information about housing providers and HUD programs will be shared with FEMA and state authorities. The Department will connect them with experts who can provide details on HUD programs and providers.
Flexibility is being offered to Community Planning and Development Grantees as well as Public Housing Agencies, Tribes, and Tribally Designated Housing Entities in applying for necessary administrative waivers due to natural disasters. Details on applying for these waivers can be found in relevant guidance documents provided by HUD.
HUD-approved housing counseling agencies are ready to assist those impacted by natural disasters in determining their needs and resources available. These services are free of charge and accessible via telephone at (800) 569-4287 in over 200 languages.
In cases of housing discrimination following a disaster, HUD's Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity offers support for filing complaints if rights have been violated. Complaints should be filed promptly within one year of any discriminatory act by calling HUD at 1-800-669-9777 or visiting their website.
