Here's the full report:

 

Steps to Take After Losing a House in a Fire Disaster

Introduction

Losing a home to a fire is a devastating experience, not only emotionally but also practically. The recent fire in Pacific Palisades has left many families grappling with the aftermath of such a loss. This comprehensive guide aims to provide a detailed outline of the steps to take in the wake of such a tragedy, offering support and guidance to those affected.  Beware of scammers! Make sure you’ve checked out anyone that you’re talking to. If you get an email or call, check the number or website they send you to independently. Be wary of anyone asking you to give out information, sign anything or asking for payments.

Immediate Actions

Contact Insurance Company

Your insurance company is a crucial ally in the recovery process:

• Notify your insurance company of the loss immediately to start the claims process.
• Ask for an advance on your policy to cover immediate expenses.
• Keep detailed records of all communications and transactions with your insurer.

File a change of address or mail hold with the post office.

Start a Google Drive or other cloud storage account.

Staying organized is important for your piece of mind and insurance claim.

Keep a log of everything you do.

Take a picture of all documents, receipts, reservations and put them in the file.

 

Cloud Storage Provider	Homepage Link	Description
Microsoft OneDrive	https://www.onedrive.com/	A cloud storage solution by Microsoft, integrated with Windows and Office for easy file sharing and collaboration.
Google Drive	https://www.google.com/drive/	A versatile cloud storage service by Google, offering seamless integration with Google Workspace and free storage up to 15 GB.
Dropbox	https://www.dropbox.com/	A widely used cloud storage platform for file synchronization, sharing, and collaboration.
Box	https://www.box.com/	A business-focused cloud storage solution with strong collaboration and file-sharing capabilities.
iCloud	https://www.icloud.com/	Apple’s cloud service for file synchronization, backup, and storage, designed for macOS and iOS users.
IDrive	https://www.idrive.com/	A robust backup and cloud storage service, ideal for storing large amounts of data with strong security features.
pCloud	https://www.pcloud.com/	A secure and user-friendly cloud storage platform offering lifetime plans and client-side encryption.
Mega	https://mega.io/	A privacy-focused cloud storage service offering end-to-end encryption and a generous free storage plan.
Google One	https://one.google.com/	A paid extension of Google Drive, offering additional storage and benefits like family sharing and support.
Backblaze	https://www.backblaze.com/	A simple and affordable cloud storage and backup solution, popular for personal and business use.
Amazon Web Services (AWS)	https://aws.amazon.com/s3/	A comprehensive cloud service suite with scalable storage options, including Amazon S3 for advanced users.
DigitalOcean	https://www.digitalocean.com/	A developer-focused platform offering scalable cloud storage and virtual servers.
IBM Cloud	https://www.ibm.com/cloud/	A cloud service for enterprise solutions, including storage, AI, and data analytics.
Egnyte	https://www.egnyte.com/	A business-focused platform for secure file sharing, collaboration, and compliance.
Alibaba Cloud	https://www.alibabacloud.com/	A leading cloud storage provider in Asia, offering scalable and cost-effective solutions for businesses.
Koofr	https://koofr.eu/	A simple and privacy-focused cloud storage platform that connects multiple cloud accounts in one interface.
Nextcloud	https://nextcloud.com/	A self-hosted file storage solution that allows full control over data and privacy.
OpenDrive	https://www.opendrive.com/	A flexible cloud storage platform offering unlimited storage plans and robust backup features.
Zoolz	https://www.zoolz.com/	A long-term cloud storage solution designed for data archiving and backup.
RackSpace	https://www.rackspace.com/	A cloud storage and hosting solution tailored for businesses, with 24/7 customer support.
Icedrive	https://icedrive.net/	A new-generation cloud storage solution with built-in encryption and a sleek user interface.
SugarSync	https://www.sugarsync.com/	A file synchronization and sharing platform with strong collaboration tools and easy file management.

Another option is to use a note taking program like MS OneNote or Evernote

 

Application Name	Homepage Link			Description
Microsoft OneNote	https://www.onenote.com/			A comprehensive note-taking app with multimedia support, synchronization, and collaboration.
Evernote	https://www.evernote.com/			A powerful app for organizing notes, tasks, and ideas, with robust search and rich text formatting.
Notion	https://www.notion.so/			A versatile workspace combining note-taking, task management, and wikis. Offers rich media support and collaboration features.
Joplin	https://joplinapp.org/			An open-source note-taking app supporting Markdown, with synchronization capabilities across devices.
Obsidian	https://obsidian.md/			A knowledge base app that works on local Markdown files, offering backlinking and graph view for connections between notes.
Simplenote	https://simplenote.com/			A straightforward and lightweight app focusing on quick and easy note-taking with seamless synchronization.
Bear	https://bear.app/			A flexible writing app for crafting notes and prose, featuring Markdown support and a focus mode.
Apple Notes	https://www.icloud.com/notes			A built-in note-taking app for Apple devices, offering rich text formatting and media attachments.
Google Keep	https://keep.google.com/			A simple note-taking service by Google, allowing quick notes, lists, and voice memos with real-time collaboration.
Zoho Notebook	https://www.zoho.com/notebook/			A free note-taking app with a card-based interface, supporting text, audio, and image notes.
UpNote	https://www.upnote.app/			A clean and minimalist app designed for focused writing and note-taking, with offline access and various themes.
Standard Notes	https://standardnotes.com/			A secure note-taking app emphasizing privacy, offering end-to-end encryption and cross-platform availability. z

Securing Temporary Housing

Contact Local Resources

There are several organizations and resources available to help you find temporary housing:

• Red Cross: Provides emergency shelter and assistance.
• FEMA: Offers housing assistance for disaster victims.
• Local government agencies: May have resources and information on temporary housing options.

Explore Short-term Rentals

Consider short-term rental options for immediate accommodation needs:

• Look for rental properties in nearby areas.
• Check online platforms like Airbnb and VRBO for temporary stays.
• Contact local real estate agents for available short-term leases.

Website Name	Homepage Link	Description
Zillow	https://www.zillow.com/	A popular platform for buying, renting, and selling homes with extensive listings and market insights.
Realtor.com	https://www.realtor.com/	A real estate website offering property listings for buying, renting, and selling, along with market data.
Apartments.com	https://www.apartments.com/	A comprehensive site for finding apartments, condos, and houses for rent across the U.S.
Airbnb	https://www.airbnb.com/	A platform for booking short-term stays and vacation rentals worldwide.
Vrbo	https://www.vrbo.com/	A site for vacation rental homes, offering full-property bookings for families and groups.
Craigslist	https://www.craigslist.org/	A classifieds website with sections for housing rentals, sublets, and roommate searches.
Trulia	https://www.trulia.com/	A real estate platform providing rental and home buying listings with neighborhood insights and reviews.
HotPads	https://www.hotpads.com/	A site specializing in rental properties, including houses, apartments, and townhomes.
Roomster	https://www.roomster.com/	A platform focused on finding roommates and shared housing options.
HousingAnywhere	https://housinganywhere.com/	A global platform for finding medium- to long-term rental housing, popular with expats and students.
Homestay	https://www.homestay.com/	A site offering hosted accommodations, where guests stay with local families.
Sublet.com	https://www.sublet.com/	A platform for finding sublet rentals and temporary housing.
Nestpick	https://www.nestpick.com/	A site for furnished apartments and medium- to long-term rentals in cities worldwide.
Oodle	https://www.oodle.com/	A classifieds website featuring housing and apartment rentals, similar to Craigslist.
Spotahome	https://www.spotahome.com/	A platform for booking mid- to long-term rentals, with property video tours and remote booking options.
FlipKey	https://www.flipkey.com/	A vacation rental platform operated by TripAdvisor, offering a wide variety of properties.
VacationRentals	https://www.vacationrentals.com/	A site for short-term vacation rentals, offering entire homes and condos.
Blueground	https://www.theblueground.com/	A platform for fully-furnished, long-term rental apartments in major cities worldwide.
PadMapper	https://www.padmapper.com/	A rental property search tool that maps listings from various platforms.
Rent.com	https://www.rent.com/	A site focusing on apartments and houses for rent in the U.S., with virtual tours and rent calculators.
Homie	https://www.homie.com/	A site for buying and renting homes, with a focus on simplifying real estate transactions.
Roomi	https://roomiapp.com/	A platform for finding shared housing and vetted roommates.
Kopa	https://www.kopa.co/	A site designed for finding furnished, medium- and long-term housing, ideal for remote workers and students.
Student.com	https://www.student.com/	A platform for student housing, offering short-term and long-term options near universities worldwide.

Documenting the Damage

Take Photographs and Videos

Documenting the damage is essential for insurance claims and rebuilding efforts:

• Take clear photographs and videos of the damaged property and belongings.
• Ensure you capture images from various angles to provide a comprehensive overview. Take both pictures and videos from close up and further away. Be sure to review your photos while on the site for clarity. As you take the pictures, build a story of what you’re seeing.  You can speak into the video as you shoot.

Make an Inventory

Create a detailed inventory of lost and damaged items:

• List all items, including their estimated value and purchase date.
• Include any receipts or proof of purchase if available.

 

While you’re thinking about it, try to list all the valuables that were in the house.  Go back and review the photos and talk to family members.

Room	Valuable Items	Notes
Living Room	Electronics: TV, sound system, gaming consoles, streaming devices, remotes
	Furniture: Sofa, coffee table, side tables, lamps, recliners
	Decor: Artwork, sculptures, area rugs, curtains
	Miscellaneous: Books, collectibles, DVDs, remote-controlled devices
Kitchen	Appliances: Refrigerator, stove, microwave, dishwasher, blender, toaster, coffee maker
	Cookware: Pots, pans, baking sheets, knife sets, cutting boards
	Dining: Dinnerware, silverware, glassware, tablecloths
	Food Storage: Pantry items, wine, specialty oils
Dining Room	Furniture: Dining table, chairs, sideboards, china cabinets
	Tableware: Fine china, crystal glassware, serving dishes
	Decor: Artwork, mirrors, rugs
Bedroom	Furniture: Bed frame, mattress, nightstands, dresser
	Personal Items: Jewelry, watches, handbags, accessories
	Electronics: TVs, laptops, tablets, smart home devices
	Clothing: Designer or specialty clothing, shoes, seasonal wear
	Miscellaneous: Safes, personal documents
Bathroom	Appliances: Hairdryer, straightener, electric toothbrush
	Personal Items: Jewelry, perfumes, makeup
	Cabinetry: Medications, first aid kits, towels
Home Office	Electronics: Computers, monitors, printers, scanners, smart devices
	Documents: Important files, passports, financial records
	Furniture: Desks, office chairs, shelving units
	Accessories: Desk lamps, organizers, whiteboards
Garage	Tools: Power tools, hand tools, toolboxes
	Vehicles: Cars, motorcycles, bicycles
	Sporting Goods: Golf clubs, skis, fishing equipment
	Lawn Equipment: Lawnmower, leaf blower, trimmers
	Miscellaneous: Camping gear, storage boxes
Laundry Room	Appliances: Washer, dryer, ironing board
	Supplies: Detergents, cleaning products
	Miscellaneous: Baskets, hampers
Basement	Electronics: Home theater systems, gaming consoles
	Storage: Holiday decorations, photo albums, antiques
	Miscellaneous: Furniture, unused items, tools
Attic	Storage: Seasonal decorations, vintage clothing, old furniture
	Keepsakes: Family heirlooms, memorabilia
	Miscellaneous: Luggage, old toys
Backyard/Patio	Furniture: Outdoor seating, dining sets
	Appliances: Grills, smokers, patio heaters
	Sporting Goods: Pool equipment, outdoor games
	Decor: Garden statues, potted plants, lighting fixtures

Taxes

Contact your assessor’s office to find out about revaluing the assessment as just land.  Let your mortgage company know to stop collecting the difference.

Talk to your CPA about the tax implications of insurance money.

Financial Assistance

Apply for Government Aid

Various government programs provide financial assistance to disaster victims:

• FEMA: Offers grants and loans for temporary housing, repairs, and other needs.

In response to the recent wildfires in Los Angeles, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers several assistance programs for affected individuals: This list is a first glance, and more information may be available.

1. Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA):
   Provides short-term lodging for eligible survivors whose primary residences are uninhabitable or inaccessible due to the disaster. This program covers lodging costs at participating hotels.
   Visit https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20250115/fema-transitional-sheltering-assistance-available-los-angeles-county for more details.
2. Individual Assistance Grants:
   • Housing Assistance: Offers financial aid for temporary housing, home repairs, or replacement. Homeowners may receive up to $43,600 for these purposes.
     Visit https://housing.lacity.gov/emergency-resources-available-for-those-impacted-by-the-wildfires for more details.
   • Other Needs Assistance: Provides grants up to $43,600 to cover necessary expenses such as medical bills, vehicle damage, personal property loss, funeral costs, moving and storage, and childcare expenses.

Visit https://housing.lacity.gov/emergency-resources-available-for-those-impacted-by-the-wildfires for more details.

1. Special Needs Assistance Grants:
   A one-time payment of $770 to address immediate needs like food, water, hygiene products, and transportation.
   Visit https://housing.lacity.gov/emergency-resources-available-for-those-impacted-by-the-wildfires for more details.
2. Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs):
   FEMA has established Disaster Recovery Centers in Los Angeles County to assist survivors with applications and provide information on available aid. Locations include:
   • West Los Angeles: UCLA Research Park (formerly Westside Pavilion), 10850 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064.
   • Pasadena: Community Education Center of Pasadena City College.
     Visit https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20250114/fema-disaster-recovery-centers-opening-los-angeles-county for more details.

How to Apply for Assistance:

• Online: Visit https://www.DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Phone: Call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, available daily from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. Assistance is available in multiple languages.
  Visit https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20250109/fema-assistance-available-individuals-affected-wildfires-california for more details.
• FEMA Mobile App: Use the FEMA smartphone application to apply.

For comprehensive information on available resources, visit the California state website at https://www.gov.ca.gov/2025/01/10/los-angeles-wildfire-survivors-can-apply-for-federal-aid-today-new-website-launched-to-help-californians.

Please note that FEMA assistance is available to both homeowners and renters affected by the wildfires. It’s crucial to apply promptly to expedite the aid process.

• SBA: Provides low-interest loans for homeowners and businesses affected by disasters.

Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Assistance:

The SBA provides low-interest loans for homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations affected by disasters. These loans are designed to help cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other recoveries.

SBA Loan Types:

1. Home Disaster Loans:
   Available to homeowners or renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate and personal property.
   Visit https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/loan-types/home-and-personal-property-loans for more details.
2. Business Physical Disaster Loans:
   Provides financial assistance to businesses to repair or replace property damaged by a disaster, including real estate, inventory, supplies, machinery, and equipment.
   Visit https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/loan-types/business-physical-disaster-loans for more details.
3. Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL):
   Offers working capital loans to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and most private nonprofits to meet financial obligations and operating expenses that cannot be met due to the disaster.
   Visit https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/loan-types/economic-injury-disaster-loans for more details.
4. Military Reservists Economic Injury Loans:
   Provides financial support to small businesses that are unable to meet operating expenses because an essential employee is called to active military duty.
   Visit https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/loan-types/military-reservists-economic-injury-loans for more details.

How to Apply for SBA Disaster Loans:

1. Online Application:
   Visit the SBA Disaster Loan Assistance portal at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela to start your application.
2. By Phone:
   Call the SBA Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 for assistance or to request a paper application.
3. Email Support:
   Send inquiries to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for guidance on applications and eligibility.
4. In Person at Disaster Recovery Centers:
   Visit an SBA Business Recovery Center or a FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in your area for one-on-one assistance. Find your nearest location at https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance.

SBA loans are a critical resource for recovery, offering low-interest, long-term financing options to help rebuild and recover from disaster-related damages. Make sure to apply as soon as possible to avoid delays in processing.

 

Seek Nonprofit and Charitable Assistance

Nonprofit organizations and charities can also provide vital support:

• Red Cross: Offers financial assistance and resources.

Red Cross Disaster Assistance:

• The American Red Cross provides financial assistance, emergency shelter, food, and other disaster relief resources to those affected by disasters, including fires.
• Types of Assistance:
• Immediate Financial Assistance:
  The Red Cross offers direct financial aid to individuals and families impacted by disasters to help with urgent needs such as clothing, food, or shelter.
  Visit https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/financial-assistance.html for more details.
• Shelter and Housing Support:
  Temporary shelters are provided during disasters, and resources may be available for transitional housing.
  Learn more at https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/shelter.html.
• Health and Mental Health Services:
  The Red Cross offers counseling and healthcare services to disaster survivors, including access to medication and emotional support.
  More information is available at https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/health-services.html.
• Emergency Supplies and Food Assistance:
  The Red Cross distributes food, water, and essential supplies to those affected by disasters.
  Visit https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/food-and-water.html.
• Family Reunification Services:
  Helps reconnect families separated during disasters through the Safe and Well program.
  Learn more at https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/connect-with-family.html.
• How to Access Red Cross Assistance:
• Online Assistance Request:
  Submit a request for disaster assistance through https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services.html.
• By Phone:
  Call the Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) for immediate support and information on available resources.
• Find a Local Chapter:
  Locate your nearest Red Cross chapter to access in-person assistance by visiting https://www.redcross.org/find-your-local-chapter.html.
• Safe and Well Registration:
  To register or search for loved ones, visit the Safe and Well website at https://safeandwell.communityos.org/cms/.
• The Red Cross is dedicated to providing compassionate support to individuals and families in their time of need. Their programs are designed to help people recover and rebuild their lives after a disaster.
• Local charities: May provide grants, clothing, and other essential items

 

  Salvation Army:
Offers disaster relief services, including emergency shelter, food, clothing, and financial assistance.
Visit https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/help-disaster-survivors/ to learn more.

  Catholic Charities USA:
Provides food, shelter, and recovery assistance through local branches.
Visit https://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/find-help/ to find your local chapter.

  United Way:
Offers disaster recovery support, including help with finding housing and financial assistance.
Visit https://www.unitedway.org/ to locate your local branch or call 211 for immediate assistance.

  Goodwill Industries:
Often provides donated clothing and essential household items to those in need.
Visit https://www.goodwill.org/ to find your nearest location.

  Society of St. Vincent de Paul:
Offers aid in the form of financial support, food, and clothing through local conferences.
Visit https://www.svdpusa.org/ for details.

  Local Food Banks (e.g., Feeding America):
Supplies food to those affected by disasters through a network of food banks.
Visit https://www.feedingamerica.org/ to find a food bank near you.

  Community Action Agencies (CAAs):
Provide a range of services, including housing assistance, utility relief, and job support.
Visit https://communityactionpartnership.com/ to find local agencies.

.

Rebuilding and Recovery

Start with plans of the house "as it was built"

"As-Builts"

Having a set of plans for a house lost to fire can be very beneficial for both insurance claims and building permits. Here’s how:

For Insurance Claims

1. Detailed Proof of the Home's Layout and Features:
   Plans can serve as a clear record of the home’s size, layout, and structural details, making it easier for insurance adjusters to assess the full value of what was lost.
2. Verification of Replacement Costs:
   Accurate plans allow contractors to estimate reconstruction costs, helping homeowners justify their claim for fair compensation.
3. Expediting the Claims Process:
   Plans reduce the need for extensive back-and-forth with the insurance company by providing visual and technical documentation of the house.
4. Supporting Claims for Custom Features:
   If the house included unique architectural elements, built-ins, or other upgrades, plans can document those details for higher claim payouts.

For Building Permits

1. Baseline for Reconstruction:
   Building departments often require detailed plans for permit applications. If the original plans are available, they can serve as a starting point for updating or modifying designs to meet current codes.
2. Simplifying the Permitting Process:
   Having plans can eliminate guesswork and streamline the process of obtaining permits for rebuilding.
3. Code Compliance:
   Older homes may not meet current building codes. Plans can help identify areas requiring updates for compliance, reducing delays in reconstruction.
4. Faster Design Approval:
   Reconstructing based on original plans, with minor adjustments as needed, can save time compared to designing a house from scratch.

In summary, having plans helps homeowners prove their losses, negotiate better insurance settlements, and speed up the rebuilding process. If plans aren’t already available, creating them based on photographs, memories, and input from the homeowner can provide significant value.

To request copies of building plans from the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS), you can follow these steps:

1. Contact LADBS Records Section: Reach out to the Records Section to inquire about the availability of building plans for your property. You can contact them via:
   • Phone: Call the LADBS Records Section at (213) 482-6770.
   • In-Person Visit: Visit the Records Counter at 201 N. Figueroa Street, 1st Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
2. Submit a Request: If the plans are available, you may need to submit a formal request. LADBS typically requires a "Request for Copies" form to be completed. This form can be obtained at the Records Counter or downloaded from the LADBS website.
3. Authorization: Due to privacy laws, obtaining copies of building plans may require authorization from the property owner and the licensed professional (architect or engineer) who prepared the plans. LADBS can provide guidance on obtaining the necessary permissions.
4. Fees: Be prepared to pay any applicable fees for the duplication of records. The Records Section can provide information on current fees.
5. Processing Time: Processing times can vary, so it's advisable to inquire about the expected timeframe when you submit your request.

Please note that building plans may not be available for all properties, especially older structures. Additionally, due to privacy and security concerns, access to certain building plans may be restricted.

For more detailed information, you can visit the LADBS official website: ladbs.org

Script asking the building department for existing plans relating to your property.

Subject: Request for Existing House Plans

Dear [Building Department Contact Name or "Building Department"],

My name is [Your Name], and I am the homeowner of [Property Address]. I am reaching out to ask if the building department has existing plans or records for my property.

Unfortunately, my home was affected by the recent Palisade fires, and I am in the process of gathering documents to assist with insurance claims and rebuilding efforts.

If plans are available, could you please let me know:

1. How I can request a copy of the plans.
2. Any fees associated with obtaining them.
3. If additional information is needed from me to access the records.

Thank you for your help during this challenging time. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] if you require any further details.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

If you can't get the plans from the city, we can recreate them for you from photos, Google Maps and conversation, for a low cost.  Info@BinderBuilding.com

Hire a design and drafting firm or an architectural firm.

For a residential building up to 2 stories, a design and drafting firm is ok to use for your permit drawings and you’ll save significantly over an architectural firm. They may need to hire a structural engineer.  The city of Los Angeles has a prescriptive structural design. If a designer follows these guidelines, you don’t need an engineer.

https://binderbuilding.com/design-and-drafting/

On the other hand, an architect will often come up with spectacular designs. These may cost more in construction as well, so keep an eye on where they’re going with the project.

Secure Building Permits

Before starting the rebuilding process, ensure you have the necessary permits:

• Contact local building authorities to determine the required permits.
• Submit all necessary paperwork and documents for approval.

Hire a Licensed Contractor

Rebuilding your home requires the expertise of licensed professionals:

• Research and hire a reputable contractor.
• Ensure the contractor is licensed and insured.
• Obtain multiple quotes and check references before making a decision.
• You’re going to be working with your contractor for a long time, make sure they’re people that you can work with. This can be more important than price and up there with quality.
• Develop a clear understanding of the scope of work. You have a responsibility to figure out what you want and convey it. The contractor will take that information and develop a proposal. Communication is key here.
• Don’t cut corners by hiring inexperienced workers.
• Make sure he has liability insurance and workers compensation.
• Get a good contract before giving any money. Read the contract, there’s no such thing as a standard contract!
• Hire a Contract lawyer to review the contract.
• Make sure that the people that you’re talking to are the ones that actually hold the license.

Hire a Construction Manager

Instead of contracting with a general contractor, consider building as a homeowner. A homeowner can build their own home.  But do you know how?  The use of a Construction Manager can be your best resource.  With years of experience, the job will run smoothly and you’ll save a lot of money. Most construction companies hire a construction manager to run their jobs.  These days, you can too.   A construction manager may be able to help you put together the as built plans, permit plans and permitting as well as construction. https://binderbuilding.com/construction-consulting/

Consider Upgrading for Safety

Use this opportunity to incorporate safety upgrades into your rebuild:

• Install fire-resistant materials and systems.
• Consider adding smoke detectors, sprinklers, and fire alarms.
• Implement landscaping techniques to create defensible space around your property.

 

Emotional and Psychological Support

Seek Professional Counseling

The emotional toll of losing a home can be significant:

• Consider engaging with a professional counselor or therapist to help cope with the stress and trauma.
• Participate in support groups with others who have experienced similar losses.
• Be aware that your children might also experience loss and that they might act out. the stress and trauma of losing their house and their schools will be hard on them and could create a feeling of insecurity. The same goes for your spouse. Keep the family working as a team.

For children affected by the Los Angeles fires, valuable emotional and psychological support resources include:

• Disaster Distress Helpline (call or text 800-985-5990),
• LA County 24/7 Mental Health Helpline (800-854-7771), child-focused trauma-informed therapy, school-based counseling programs, and community support groups, all designed to help children process their experiences and cope with stress related to the fires.

Key points about these resources:

• Disaster Distress Helpline:
• Offers 24/7 confidential crisis counseling for anyone experiencing emotional distress due to a disaster.
• LA County Mental Health Helpline:
• Provides immediate mental health support to Los Angeles County residents.
• Child-focused trauma therapy:
• Specialized therapy approaches tailored to address the unique needs of children experiencing trauma.
• School-based counseling:
• Access to mental health professionals within the school setting for students impacted by the fires.
• Community support groups:
• Safe spaces for children and families to connect with others who have experienced similar situations and share coping strategies.

Lean on Community and Family

The support of family, friends, and community can be invaluable:

• Reach out to loved ones for emotional support and assistance.
• Engage with community groups and resources that can provide help and companionship.
• Check with family and friends to see if they have old pictures of your family. You may even find some pictures that you never knew about.

Emotional Support Resources

• Red Cross: Offers emotional support through mental health workers in shelters. Visit redcross.org or email contact@redcross.org.
• National Disaster Distress Helpline: Provides 24/7 crisis counseling by phone or text. Visit samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline or email ddhelpline@samhsa.hhs.gov.
• Los Angeles County Psychological Association: Provides resources for coping with disasters, including group therapy. Visit lapsych.org or email info@lapsych.org.

·      Other Resources

• 211 Los Angeles: A helpline that connects people to health and human services, including disaster preparedness. Visit 211la.org or email info@211la.org.
• Pasadena Community Foundation: Provides support for immediate needs from wildfires. Visit pasadenacf.org or email info@pasadenacf.org.
• Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles: Provides housing assistance, essentials, and support for rebuilding. Visit habitatla.org or email info@habitatla.org.
• Mutual Aid L.A. Network (MALAN): Provides information about where to find food and items, and animal shelters. Visit mutualaidsocal.org or email info@mutualaidsocal.org.
• California Fire Foundation: Provides support for people affected by fires, including firefighters. Visit cafirefoundation.org or email info@cafirefoundation.org.
• Project Camp: Provides trauma-informed pop-up day camps for children displaced by natural disasters. Visit projectcamp.org or email info@projectcamp.org.

Future Preparedness

Review and Update Insurance Policies

Ensure your insurance coverage is adequate for future incidents:

• Review your current insurance policies and make all necessary updates.
• Has the cost of construction gone up since you got the policy? Have you done remodeling or improvements? Make sure you’re carrying enough insurance.
• Is your home in a trust and your policy in your name? Make sure your policy and title match so the insurance company can pay you.
• Consider additional coverage for natural disasters and fires.

Create an Emergency Plan

Prepare for future emergencies by creating a detailed plan:

• Develop an evacuation plan and practice it regularly with your family.
• Designate a safe meeting place.
• Have an out of state family member’s phone number as a contact point for everyone. Local communication may go out but national should still work.
• Designate a family code word. AI can fool you with a voice, so a family code word let’s everyone know who their talking to.
• Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies.
• Stay informed about local emergency procedures and resources.

Other things to do

Photograph and video everything. Show both close up and far away in the pictures.  Show high and low.  Open closets, cabinets and drawers.

Inventory room by room all valuables.  Use the list above as a starting guide.

Inventory bank accounts, mortgage information, credit cards ect.

Make a wallet card, listing important phone numbers, birthdays, addresses, ss numbers, credit card 800 numbers, bank information and passwords. Write sensitive information in some kind of code.

Also, make a note of pictures and files that are online.

Store copies of all information in the cloud.

Backup your computer files to the cloud.

Conclusion

Recovering from the loss of a home due to fire is a challenging and multifaceted process. By taking these steps, you can navigate the aftermath with greater confidence and support. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and numerous resources are available to help you rebuild and recover. Stay resilient and reach out for assistance whenever needed.