Ensuring Safe Living Spaces Post-Fire
For internal use only
Home Warranties & Environmental Testing with Maria Howard Old Republic Home Protection and Anthony Lucero - Air-Tech Environmental, Inc
This meeting addressed how agents can support clients affected by the recent wildfires and featured presentations from key vendors who provided updates on their services and resources. The discussion also included upcoming events, new home warranty features, and actionable steps for agents to assist their database during this crisis.
Key Themes:
Compassion and practical resources for wildfire victims.
Education on environmental hazards and testing.
Updates on home warranty plans and disaster-specific considerations.
Upcoming events and opportunities for networking and fundraising.
One Thing an Agent Can Do Today
Call clients in fire-affected areas and offer support.
Ask: "What questions do you have for me? What resources can I provide to help you navigate this difficult time?" Tailor the conversation based on the severity of their situation and provide vendor resources.
Vendor Presentations and Contact Information
1. Maria Howard – Republic Home Warranty
Company: Republic Home Warranty
Contact Information:
Email: maria@orhp.com
Website: www.orhp.com
Special Notes: Maria emphasized her availability for urgent client issues and encouraged agents to reach out directly to avoid delays.
Key Points:
Republic is offering pro-rated refunds for policies on homes that no longer exist.
New plan features:
Zone controls for smart homes ($75 add-on).
Water heater tune-ups ($25 seasonal add-on).
Emergency lodging coverage ($1,500 for uninhabitable homes).
2. Anthony Lucero – Airtech Environmental
Company: Airtech Environmental
Contact Information:
Email: anthony@airtech.com
Phone: (Available 24/7)
Services: Testing for asbestos, lead, soot, ash, and mold in wildfire-affected properties.
Additional Info: Airtech provides comprehensive reports for homeowners, insurance companies, and remediation teams.
Key Points:
Airtech performs testing only (not cleanup) to avoid conflicts of interest.
Turnaround time for test results: 5–10 days, with expedited options available.
Procedure 5 Cleanup protocols are necessary when asbestos contamination is detected.
3. Jason – Property ID
Company: Property ID
Contact Information:
Reach out directly for Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD) reports.
Updates from the EPA will be reflected in all new NHDs.
Key Points:
Property ID ensures all NHD reports are current and include information about soil contamination, toxic substances, and other environmental hazards.
4. Cut and Dry Restoration
Representative: Garrett, Operations Manager
Contact Information:
Direct through office referrals.
Works closely with Airtech for post-remediation clearances.
Prioritizes clients ready to start work and rebuild their homes.
Key Points:
Specializes in fire and water damage restoration.
Offers a 24–48 hour turnaround on detailed, customized estimates.
Expanded Q&A: Airtech Environmental
What testing services does Airtech provide for wildfire-affected homes?
Soot, Ash, and Smoke Testing:
Airtech collects tape-lift samples of soot and ash, sending them to a national lab for analysis of density and contamination levels.
Asbestos and Lead Testing:
Wet wipes are used to collect samples, analyzed under a microscope for hazardous particles.
Soil Testing:
Soil samples are taken from multiple property locations (north, south, east, west). Reports determine contamination levels and guide next steps.
What is the process for soot, ash, and asbestos testing?
Initial Assessment: Technicians inspect the property for visible soot and ash.
Sample Collection:
Soot/Ash: Tape-lift samples are collected from surfaces.
Asbestos/Lead: Wet wipes are used on surfaces with potential contamination.
Analysis: Samples are sent to a nationally recognized independent laboratory.
Report Generation: A detailed report is provided within 5–10 days, guiding the homeowner’s next steps.
What is a Procedure 5 Cleanup?
Required when asbestos contamination is identified.
Includes a strict protocol for cleanup, requiring:
Approval from AQMD (South Coast Air Quality Management District).
Notification and oversight by the appropriate environmental authorities.
Disposal of hazardous waste at specialized facilities (e.g., Nevada desert landfills).
How much does testing cost?
Pricing depends on the property’s size:
500–2,000 sq ft: Standard pricing.
2,001–4,000 sq ft: Mid-tier pricing.
Over 4,000 sq ft: Requires a customized quote based on size and scope.
How does Airtech ensure post-cleanup safety?
Clearance Testing: After cleanup, Airtech conducts clearance tests to confirm all hazardous particles have been removed.
Clearance involves more samples than the initial test, including hidden areas like cabinet undersides.
How can homeowners avoid unnecessary costs?
If soot and ash are visible, focus on professional cleaning rather than testing.
Testing is recommended for properties near burn zones or with suspected asbestos contamination.
Upcoming Events
ARA Greater LA Chapter Event
Date: February 20, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM
Location: Marriott, Monterey Park
Details: Panel discussion featuring FEMA, ServPro, and Natural Hazard experts.
Happy Hour Mixer
Date: February 25, 2025
Time: 1:30–3:00 PM
Location: Cordova Café
Details: Networking event with happy hour prices. Coffee, drinks, and light refreshments available.
Super Bowl Squares Fundraiser
Details: $5 per square; proceeds benefit KW Cares Pasadena. Contact Noel for participation.
Additional Notes
Reminders on Price Gouging:
Strict laws apply to rental price increases in disaster zones. Double-check listings to ensure compliance. Historical pricing on platforms like Zillow can easily expose violations.
ABOUT MARIA HOWARD
Maria Howard is a seasoned real estate professional with over 35 years of experience, currently serving as a Senior Account Executive at Old Republic Home Protection. She is a proud member of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals, the Asian Real Estate Association of America, and the Escrow Association of San Gabriel. Maria is dedicated to providing exceptional service to her clients in Southern California, including areas such as Burbank, Diamond Bar, Hacienda Heights, La Puente, Pomona, Rowland Heights, and the San Gabriel Valley. Maria's extensive experience and commitment to her clients make her a valuable resource for home warranty needs in the Southern California region.
ABOUT ANTHONY LUCERO
Anthony is a seasoned restoration contractor, insurance claims specialist, and environmental testing expert with over 15 years of experience in the industry. Starting his career in restoration, Anthony quickly became recognized for his comprehensive knowledge in damage repair and his commitment to quality. With a keen eye for detail, he navigates complex insurance claims to ensure that clients receive the compensation they deserve, streamlining the process from start to finish.
Building on his extensive background, Anthony has expanded his expertise into environmental testing, where he provides critical analysis and insight into hazardous conditions like mold, lead, and asbestos. His hands-on approach, combined with the latest industry certifications and technology, allows him to deliver accurate, reliable results that help protect the health and safety of individuals and communities.
Whether you are dealing with property damage, insurance complexities, or environmental hazards, Anthony brings a unique blend of technical skill, practical experience, and a client-centered approach to every project.
Anthony Lucero Account Manager
Air-Tech Environmental, Inc.
(310) 487-1699
