What can I do now?

fire restoration vs. Fire reconstruction

Fire restoration is mostly for a small fires with no structural damage. Fire restoration is the process of restoring fire-damaged properties to their previous condition. Most often fire restoration is done when the damage from the house fire does not require structural repair and is limited to a small area.

Fire reconstruction is for homes that had significant damage, especially structural. Fire reconstruction is a process of rebuilding fire-damaged homes, often with improvements. It may mean a complete tear-down of your damaged home and rebuilding a new home. In the case of tear-down this is the perfect opportunity to custom design your new home.

what steps do we need to take to start the rebuilding process?

Right of Entry and Opt Forms https://recovery.lacounty.gov/debris-removal/roe/

Household Hazardous Waste Assessment and Removal https://recovery.lacounty.gov

Debris Removal and Clean Up. Residents should not attempt to remove hazardous fire debris themselves. https://recovery.lacounty.gov/debris-removal/phase-2/#faq3

Hire a design professional. https://www.zenrendesigns.com/contact

Rebuilding Homes in Altadena

Rebuilding homes in Altadena is about restoring more than just structures—it’s about rebuilding lives and communities. It will take more than qualified skills but a sensibility to the clients as they go through a very vulnerable restorative process.

Popular Design styles of Altadena meetings modern rebuilding needs

One of the most exciting aspects of rebuilding is the chance to blend modern functionality with classic architectural details. Whether you have an appreciation for Craftsman craftsmanship, the elegance of Spanish revival design, or the understated luxury found in Mediterranean-style homes, you can integrate contemporary amenities without compromising the historic character you love.

Fire-Resistant Construction & Materials

In order to protect the home against the future risk of wildfire, Altadena may require fire-resistant materials and construction techniques in some areas, such as:

• Fire-Resistant Roofing: Certain class A roofing materials, like metal, clay, or concrete tile may be required to prevent the roof from igniting during a wildfire.

• Ember-Resistant Vents: Prevents embers blown by the wind from entering the home and setting light to areas like attics and crawl spaces.

• Non-Combustible Siding: Materials like fiber cement and treated wood can help prevent fire spread and improve the home’s exterior resistance to flames.

• Tempered Glass Windows: These are more resistant to heat and less likely to break during a fire as a result.

• Defensible Space Regulations: In many areas, homeowners are now required to clear vegetation and maintain a buffer zone around the home to reduce fire risk.

Like-For-Like Rebuild

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: “Like-for-like” replacement structures must be the same size, in the same location, and for the same land use as the legally established damaged or destroyed structure. The like-for-like replacement structure may be approved with modifications if they do not increase the floor area, size, height, or building footprint by more than 10%.