Rebuilding Together:
Rebuilding can be a challenging process, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our team is here to help with free site visits and discounted design and permitting services to support your recovery every step of the way.
Key Priorities for Your Rebuild:
- Insurance Damage Assessments & Reimbursements
- This should be your first step. Ensuring you’ve addressed insurance claims will provide clarity and help with budgeting your rebuild.
- Engage Design Professionals Now
- Partner with our design and permitting team immediately to started.
- Permitting your rebuild will likely take 9–18 months, so the earlier you begin, the sooner you’ll see progress.
- Understand the Reality of Permitting Timelines
- Unfortunately, what your city or county tells you may not align with reality. The permitting process will probably take much longer than initially promised, so be prepared.
Our Professional Services That Are Required for Your Rebuild:
Permitting your rebuild will require assistance from multiple specialists, including:
- Architecture (We offer reduced pricing through our design/build firm)
- Structural Engineering
- Title 24 Energy Calculations
- Soils Testing Reports
- Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Design
- Property Boundary Surveys
Don’t Forget About Debris Removal
Clearing debris is a vital first step. While the county offers this service for free, you may want to move faster. If that's the case, we’re happy to handle it for you.
Helpful Resources
Useful Information for Property Recovery and Assistance:
1. Kathryn Barger — LA County Supervisor
Under Proposition 13, if you build up to 120% of your existing square footage, the new construction will not be reassessed at today’s market values. This is a significant exemption designed to help homeowners rebuild without incurring increased property tax burdens.
2. Mark Pestrella — LA County Public Works Director
If you’re dealing with fire debris removal, LA County Public Works has created a streamlined process for recovery.
- Debris Removal Hotline: Call 844-347-3332 for assistance (Monday-Friday, 7 AM - 7 PM, and Saturday-Sunday, 8 AM - 6 PM).
- Website: Visit LA County Public Works Debris Removal for step-by-step guidance.
- Important Notes:
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- Household hazardous waste will be removed at no cost by the U.S. EPA before general debris removal begins.
- Property owners can choose to join the government-sponsored cleanup or opt for self-managed debris removal pending County approval.
3. Nicole Wilson — FEMA Public Affairs Specialist
FEMA provides grants to support homeowners in their recovery efforts.
- Helpline: Call 800-621-3362 (available daily from 7 AM to 10 PM local time). For video relay service (VRS) or other accessibility options, share your service number with FEMA.
- Apply Online: Visit FEMA Disaster Assistance to submit your application and explore additional recovery resources, including emergency shelter options and vital disaster information.
Additional Resources:
- For up-to-date health and safety guidelines regarding hazardous materials in fire-damaged areas, consult LA County Public Works' "Precautions When Assessing Your Property After a Fire."
- Discover key emergency assistance locations and timelines directly through FEMA’s interactive disaster tool on their official website.
