A ROUGH GUIDE TOWARDS REBUILDING

January 13, 2025, WELCH DESIGN STUDIO

Rebuilding after a wildfire can be an overwhelming process, but breaking it down into steps will make it more manageable. Here’s a general outline of the next steps you can follow:

1. Document the Damage

• Take photos and videos of the damage, if possible. This documentation will be crucial for insurance claims and for any future legal or permit processes.

2. Contact Your Insurance Company

• File a claim with your homeowner’s insurance provider. They will send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine your coverage for rebuilding costs. Be sure to thoroughly understand what is covered, including temporary housing and debris removal.

3. Consult with Local Authorities

• Reach out to local authorities regarding any specific permits or regulations folLOwing the wildfire. Governor Newsom’s recent order may streamline permits in certain areas, which could expedite your process. CHECK OUT OUR FACEBOOK POST FOR INFORMATION REGARDING THIS NEW EXECUTIVE ORDER. wE WORK CLOSELY WITH THE CITY AND EXPEDITORS TO HELP MAKE THIS PROCESS MORE EFFICIENT.

4. Clear the Site Safely

• Debris removal needs to be done safely and in accordance with local GUidelines. Your insurance may cover professional services to clear the site, or local authorities might offer programs for fire debris removal. aT wELCH dESIGN sTUDIO, WE HAVE SEVERAL dEBRIS REMOVAL COMPANIES WE ARE HAPPY TO PUT YOU IN CONTACT WITH.

5. Hire a Reputable Architect or Design Firm

• Engage an architect or designer who is familiar with local building codes and experienced in wildfire rebuilds. AT WELCH DESIGN STUDIO, WE can help you develop plans that adhere to fire-resistant building standards. WE ARE READY TO START WORKING WITH YOU to accelerate the process OF GETTING INTO THE CITY TO OBTAIN YOUR PERMIT. CALL US OR EMAIL US FOR A CONSULTATION. WE ARE ALWAYS HERE TO HELP GUIDE AND SUPPORT YOU.

6. Understand Fire-Resistant Building Materials

• Consider building with fire-resistant materials like concrete, metal, tempered glass, or non-combustible MATERIALS. Rebuilding with these materials could potentially reduce insurance costs and provide peace of mind in the future.

7. Apply for Permits

• WE WILL GO THROUGH THE ENTIRE PLAN CHECK PROCESS AND WORK WITH OTHER AGENCIES TO EXPEDITE THE PROCESS. With the governor’s new order, the permit process may be faster, especially in areas impacted by the recent fires like Pacific Palisades. This includes construction, electrical, plumbing, and any other relevant permits.

8. Secure Funding

• SECURE THE Funds to cover rebuilding costs. This could include a combination of insurance payouts, loans, or personal savings. DUE TO UNFORSEEN CIRCUMSTANCES, YOU MAY want to budget for contingencies.

9. Choose a Contractor

• AT WELCH DESIGN STUDIO, WE HELP YOU OBTAIN estimates from contractors. WE WORK WITH SEVERAL WONDERFUL licensed, insured CONTRACTORS, WHO come with strong references. WE prepare a comprehensive bid package and GUIDE YOU IN YOUR selectION OF a contractor who fits your needs. TOGETHER, WE FORM A STRONG TEAM TO REALIZE THE END RESULT.

10. Start the Rebuild

• Once permits are approved and financing is in place, you can begin construction. During the rebuild, WE HELP monitor THE progress closely to ensure the work meets standards and timelines. WE ARE WITH YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY.

THE FINAL STEP IS WALKING INTO YOUR NEW HOME. WE KNOW THIS IS GOING TO BE A CHALLENGING TIME, AND WE WANT TO LET YOU KNOW THAT WE ARE HERE EVERY STEP OF THE WAY.

AT WELCH DESIGN STUDIO, WE LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING CLOSELY WITH YOU TO ENSURE THE PROCESS IS NOT ONLY SEAMLESS BUT ALSO AN EXCITING OPPORTUNITY TO CREATE A HOME THAT MEETS YOUR VISION.

LET’S BUILD SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL TOGETHER.

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