If you've lost your home in a wildfire, the path to rebuilding can feel impossibly overwhelming. There are insurance companies to deal with, government agencies to navigate, contractors to vet, and decisions to make — all while your family is grieving and displaced.
This page is designed to give you clarity. We've compiled the most important resources, explained the key steps, and answered the questions we hear most often from fire survivors in Altadena. Whether or not you end up building with us, we want you to have the information you need to move forward.
If you'd like to talk through your specific situation with a member of our team — for free, with no obligation — please contact us here.
Understanding your policy, what your insurer owes you under California law, and how to document your claim for maximum coverage.
The permit process for fire rebuilds in unincorporated Altadena is managed by LA County. Here's what you need to know.
Federal, state, and local programs available to fire survivors — including FEMA disaster aid, SBA loans, and California-specific relief.
Fire debris removal is regulated and involves hazardous materials. Do not attempt to remove debris without proper authorization.
California's building codes require fire-resilient construction materials and methods for homes in high fire hazard severity zones (HFHSZ).
While your home is being rebuilt, a range of temporary housing options and assistance programs are available to displaced families.
California fire insurance claims are complex. Here are the most important things every Altadena fire survivor should know.
Insurance companies routinely undervalue initial settlement offers. You have the right to negotiate, supplement your claim with additional documentation, and dispute unfair valuations. Get independent estimates before settling.
California has strong consumer protections for wildfire survivors. Insurers cannot cancel your policy solely because you filed a fire claim, and must pay replacement costs — not just actual cash value — if you have replacement cost coverage.
A licensed public adjuster works for you — not the insurance company — and typically achieves significantly higher settlements. Their fee (usually 10% of the settlement) is often more than offset by the larger payout they secure.
California law requires insurers to pay for code upgrades when rebuilding — meaning your new home must meet current fire codes, which cost more than the original. Ensure your claim includes full "ordinance or law" coverage.
Many policies include extended replacement cost provisions that give you additional time (often 24–36 months) to complete your rebuild. Understand your deadlines and apply for extensions when available under California regulation.
California's Department of Insurance (CDI) advocates for consumers and can intervene when insurers act in bad faith. File a complaint at insurance.ca.gov if your insurer is unresponsive or offering unfair settlements.
Answers to the questions we hear most often from Altadena fire survivors.
Register for federal assistance after a declared disaster.
File complaints and get help with insurance disputes.
Building and planning permits for unincorporated Altadena.
Low-interest loans for homeowners and businesses after disasters.
Government debris removal programs for affected properties.
Free consultation for fire survivors. We're here to help you rebuild.