Wildfires can leave behind more than just emotional and physical scars—they often result in properties that are unsafe, hazardous, and uninhabitable until proper clean-up is completed. If your property in Los Angeles was affected, the road to recovery starts with understanding your wildfire debris removal options. The City of Los Angeles Bureau of Contract Administration…
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If you’re a homeowner in Altadena or Pacific Palisades (or any area affected by wildfire) and want to plant a garden—especially for growing food—after fire-related debris has been removed, you’ll want to go beyond the standard 6 inches removed by the USACE for safety. Here’s what experts typically recommend: 🌱 Recommended Soil Removal Depth for…
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If your home was damaged or destroyed in the recent L.A. wildfires, there’s an important decision you need to make—and fast. The clock is ticking to sign up for the government’s free debris removal program. The deadline? March 31. Here’s a breakdown of your options, what the cleanup process involves, and why that “free” label…
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Here’s a note from the Los Angeles County Planning Department regarding how to rebuild in Altadena: “Please note that like-for-like replacement structures do not need to comply with current Zoning Code requirements, but they will need to comply with current Building Code, Fire Code, and Health and Safety Code requirements. “ So what does this…
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The construction industry is experiencing a surge in innovative technologies and materials, offering significant hope for homeowners facing disaster recovery. Recent trends highlight advancements in resilient building materials, modular construction, and digital tools that streamline rebuilding processes. These advancements are not just theoretical; they’re being implemented in real-world projects, showing promise in creating more durable…
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Article from ABC News but very important to note the quote: “Computers don’t repair and rebuild homes — contractors and subcontractors do. So, it’s what they will charge that matters.” Insurance expert on how to prepare for insurance claims amid California firesABC News’ Linsey Davis speaks with insurance broker Karl Susman about the difficulty of…
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Role of a Public Adjuster Licensed by the Department of Insurance to represent property owners in claims against insurance companies. Helps ensure that policyholders receive the full amount they are entitled to, particularly in wildfire damage cases. Negotiates with insurers, prepares professional damage assessments, and provides documentation to substantiate claims. Payment Structure Public adjusters work…
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The award that ultimately gets paid to homeowners in Altadena and Pacific Palisades will ultimately be very individual given the mass tort nature of the litigation. But if we look at the precedent, the PG&E settlement, we can see that it will be very moderate. The settlement between Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and…
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The landscape of home rebuilding after disasters is evolving, with a significant push towards sustainable and resilient construction materials. Recent trends highlight the increasing adoption of materials like engineered lumber, insulated concrete forms (ICFs), and advanced roofing systems. These innovations are not just about environmental consciousness; they are about building homes that can better withstand…
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Experiencing a house fire can be one of the most overwhelming and emotional events a homeowner can face. The loss, damage, and uncertainty that follow can leave you feeling lost and unsure of where to turn. However, understanding the steps you need to take after a fire can help bring some clarity and peace of…
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