You have questions, we have answers.

The timeline for rebuilding a home after a fire varies depending on the extent of the damage, permitting processes, and material availability. On average, rebuilding can take 12-36 months from start to finish. At Westside Build, we streamline the process to reduce delays, combining design and construction under one roof.

• Document the Damage: look for photos and videos of your space and belongings prior to the fire for insurance claims.
• Contact Your Insurance Provider: File a claim as soon as possible.
• Evaluate cleanup: will you work with the Army Corps or hire a private contractor? (note: the army Corps cleanup is not free, refer to out FAQ about site cleanup)
• Partner with Rebuilding Experts: Work with experienced professionals like Westside Build to plan the reconstruction process.

Site evaluation is essential to determine the extent of the damage. But odds are we will have to remove all existing foundations and dig up any piping that might have melted from the fire’s heat. Our expert partners will provide a comprehensive evaluation and guide you on whether to restore or rebuild.

We have a two Prong approach for building back with safety from natural disasters in mind:

Incorporate our Wildfire Suppression system

• • Integrated plumbing for fire suppression heads
  • Battery backup and pump sealed in a concrete vault in the house or on the property (making your system function off grid)
  • Sensors and the system Brain connected to LTE and backup communications to ensure the AI will properly time any watering of your property
  • Connection of your system to your pool or a subterranean water tank

   

We recommend incorporating fire-resistant materials, such as:

• • • Non-combustible Roofing: Metal or clay tiles.
    • Fire-resistant Siding: Fiber cement or stucco.
    • Tempered Glass Windows: To withstand heat and impact.
    • Defensible Landscaping: Use fire-resistant plants and maintain a clear perimeter around your home.

Learn More About Fire Resistance

Every situation is unique regarding insurance. Some people will have adequate coverage to cover the cost of a full rebuild, some may need some a additional capital. In either situation often the funding involves coordination with your mortgage and insurance companies. At Westside Build we are your partner through all of this headache:

• We understand the reporting and progress payment structure and we can lead this process by working with the necessary 3rd parties to provide clear and detailed budgets and documentation as needed.
• Our goal is to keep you informed and confident throughout every stage.
• We are speaking to the major players in this process frequently 

See our build process

• Install a fire-resistant roof and siding.
• Use tempered glass for windows and sliding doors.
• Maintain defensible space by clearing vegetation near your home.
• Install sprinkler systems and smoke alarms.

Getting started is easy. Submit your email through our Contact Form, and we’ll connect with you to discuss your project. We’ll create a tailored plan to rebuild your home and future.

A great article by forbes shedding light on this topic

Speaking with multiple engineers and specialists the general consensus is that if the entire building burned the concrete elements of the home have been weakened by the fire’s heat and will need to be replaced in their entirety.

The city has posted a document that they are asking home owners to sign that will give them permission to clean your site. This document also gives their cleanup team the right to take 1st position on claiming any funds allocated by your insurance company for site cleanup. THE CITY BACKED CLEANUP IS NOT FREE. You may also elect to hire a qualified contractor on your own, giving you more control over the timing for completion of your sites cleanup, and more control of how you would like things done. (Both options can only occur once the EPA clears your site)

You can check the status of your EPA cleanup by parcel here:

Check EPA status by parcel

We have been working with several private cleanup teams that are licensed for hazardous waste cleanup as well as hygienists that can do the required AQMD testing (also being called survey) once you are deferred to phase 2 or complete phase 1. The AQMD has give this team guidance that once you have them back from the lab the cleanup team can submit the testing results online, pay the fee and move forward with cleanup immediately Vs. waiting the 14 day period for official response from AQMP

Not really, the initial guidance that was issued by the mayor’s office was worded such that the city is committed to giving your first round of “comments” back in 30 days. This means you save a bit of time compared to the normal intake, but we have heard from the city to expect many months of back and forth somewhat similar to how it has always been. We expect there to be continued wrangling over this and we hope that a truly expedited process come together.  However, we have one client that had completed construction 3 mo prior to the fire and was able to get a new permit over the counter with their previously approved drawing set. Our expediting partners will have the most up to date information on their sites regarding this topic.

Our Partners

(taken from the LA county Website 2/6/2025)

1. Submit the Opt-Out Application:

Obtain the Application: Access the “Los Angeles County Local Fire Debris Removal Program Application” form.

DOWNLOAD FORM HERE

Complete the Application: Fill out the form with accurate property details and your contact information.
Submit the Application: You can submit the completed application through one of the following methods:
Email: Send to [email protected]. Include your property address or Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN) in the subject line and ensure the file size is under 150 MB.
Mail: Los Angeles County Public Works – Environmental Programs Division, Attention: Debris Removal Team, P.O. Box 1460, Alhambra, CA 91802-1460.
In-Person: Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Locations and hours can be found at recovery.lacounty.gov/recovery-centers/.

2. Obtain Necessary Permits:

Demolition Permit: Contact the Los Angeles County Department of Building and Safety to determine if a demolition permit is required for your property.
Contact Information: Building and Safety – Antelope Valley Office, 335 A East Avenue K-6, Lancaster, CA 93535. Phone: (661) 524-2390. Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Additional Permits: Depending on your property’s location and specific circumstances, other permits may be necessary. Consult with local authorities to identify and obtain all required permits before commencing debris removal.

3. Hire Licensed and Certified Contractors:

Select Qualified Professionals: Engage contractors licensed and certified in hazardous material handling and debris removal. Ensure they comply with all regulatory requirements.

4. Conduct Debris Removal:

Follow Approved Work Plan: Proceed with debris removal as outlined in your approved work plan, adhering to all safety and environmental regulations.

5. Final Inspection and Certification:

Schedule Inspection: After debris removal, arrange for an inspection by the appropriate local authorities to confirm the site has been properly cleared.
Obtain Certification: Once the inspection is complete, secure a Fire Debris Approval Certificate from Public Works.