The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced a 90-day extension of its foreclosure moratorium on Federal Housing Administration (FHA)-insured single-family mortgages in Los Angeles County, California. This decision comes in response to the devastation caused by wildfires in January 2025.
HUD Secretary Scott Turner made the announcement during a visit to Altadena, a disaster-stricken area, alongside Kathryn Barger, Fifth District Supervisor of Los Angeles. The extension aims to provide relief and flexibility to families affected by the fires within the Presidentially Declared Major Disaster Area (PDMDA).
Los Angeles County houses over 100,000 FHA-insured mortgages within the PDMDA. HUD is collaborating with mortgage servicers to evaluate the damage inflicted on properties with these mortgages.
“It is heartbreaking to witness the devastation caused by the horrific wildfires in Altadena and the surrounding areas of Los Angeles County and the heavy toll of this tragedy on individuals, families and communities,” stated Secretary Scott Turner. “Empowering and supporting our neighbors so they can build or rebuild their future, including when disaster strikes, is a core part of HUD’s mission and we will continue providing help during hardship.”
Supervisor Kathryn Barger added, “HUD’s extension of the foreclosure moratorium is a lifeline for wildfire survivors in Los Angeles County who are facing immense hardship. I appreciate Secretary Turner’s leadership and commitment to ensuring that families impacted by these devastating fires have the time and support they need to recover. This critical relief will help stabilize our communities as we work together to rebuild and heal.”
The extended moratorium prevents mortgage servicers from initiating or completing foreclosures on FHA-insured single-family forward or Home Equity Conversion mortgages until July 7, 2025. Originally set to expire on April 8, 2025, this measure offers additional time for affected homeowners.
Borrowers struggling with mortgage payments are encouraged to contact their mortgage servicer promptly for assistance or reach out to the FHA Resource Center at (800) CALL-FHA for further support.
For immediate housing or disaster recovery needs, HUD-certified housing counselors offer guidance on available options. Borrowers can locate an approved counseling agency using HUD's online search tool or by calling (800) 569-4287.
Homeowners whose properties require reconstruction may consider FHA’s Section 203(h) loan program for full financing options. Those seeking repairs can explore FHA’s Section 203(k) loan program for combined purchase or refinancing solutions along with renovation costs.
