Helpful Tips to Begin the Rebuilding Process

1. Documenting Your Loss for Insurance

  • Photograph Everything: Take clear photos of damaged areas before starting cleanup.
  • Create a Detailed Inventory: List every lost or damaged item, noting the value and purchase date if possible, even the toothpaste counts
  • Secure Copies of Documents: Gather insurance policies, property deeds, and any documentation related to the property.
  • Be Proactive: Contact your insurance adjuster to ensure claims are moving forward

2. Choosing the Right General Contractor and Design Firm

  • Find a team that you truly connect with and trust.
  • Check Licensing: Always verify that contractors are licensed through the California State Licensing Board linked below.
  • Experience Matters: Look for firms with experience in fire rebuilds, like Cobblestone & Vines.
  • Ask for References: Speak to past clients about their experience.
  • Avoid High-Pressure Sales: Be wary of contractors pushing for quick decisions without a clear plan.

3. Understanding the Process and Timeline

  • Initial Consultation: We meet to assess your needs and goals.
  • Design Phase: Collaborate to create plans that meet your lifestyle and budget.
  • Permits and Approvals: We handle the paperwork to meet city and county requirements.
  • Construction Phase: Our team works to rebuild your home with precision and care.
  • Completion and Walkthrough: We ensure every detail is perfect before completion.

Resources to Support You

Know all your options and do your research!

Federal and State Assistance

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

    • Website: www.fema.gov
    • FEMA provides financial assistance, grants, and guidance for rebuilding and temporary housing.
    • Apply for assistance: Disaster Assistance

California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES)

    • Website: www.caloes.ca.gov
    • Offers disaster recovery assistance and rebuilding support for Californians.

Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans

    • Website: www.sba.gov
    • Low-interest loans for homeowners to repair or replace damaged homes and belongings.

Local Support Services

Los Angeles County Fire Recovery Resources

    • Website: LA County Fire
    • Provides fire-specific recovery information, including rebuilding permits and safety guidelines.

LA County Relief: Funding & Resource Portal 

    • Website: LA County Relief
    • Provides financial assistance and resources for workers, small businesses, and nonprofits impacted by disasters, with grants ranging from $2,000 to $25,000.

Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS)

    • Website: www.ladbs.org
    • Assistance with building permits, codes, and inspections to ensure safe rebuilding.

United Way of Greater Los Angeles

    • Website: www.unitedwayla.org
    • Offers grants and recovery services for those impacted by local disasters.

The Center for Cultural Innovation (CCI) has established the LA Arts Community Fire Relief Fund

    • Website: cciarts.org
    • To support Los Angeles County artists and arts workers affected by the Palisades and Eaton fires

*Altadena Residents* Los Angeles County Public Works Building and Safety SG Valley Office 

    • Website: www.dpw.lacounty.gov/building-and-safety
    • Altadena is an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County, meaning it does not have its own city government, so residents will need to visit this office for services.

Ventura + Malibu Resources 

Nonprofit and Community Organizations

American Red Cross Los Angeles Region

    • Website: www.redcross.org
    • Temporary housing assistance, basic supplies, and rebuilding support.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles

    • Website: www.habitatla.org
    • Provides assistance in rebuilding homes for families in need.

California Community Foundation (Wildfire Relief Fund)

    • Website: www.calfund.org
    • Offers financial support and resources for wildfire survivors.

Construction and Insurance Assistance

California Department of Insurance (CDI)

    • Website: www.insurance.ca.gov
    • Help with navigating insurance claims and finding resources for rebuilding.

Rebuilding Together

National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)

    • Website: www.nahb.org
    • Resources for finding local builders and navigating the rebuilding process.

Mental Health and Emotional Support

California HOPE Crisis Counseling Program

    • Hotline: 1-800-985-5990
    • Free counseling for disaster survivors through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (LACDMH)

    • Website: dmh.lacounty.gov
    • Crisis counseling and mental health support for fire survivors.

Additional Resources

211 LA County

    • Website: www.211la.org
    • Connects residents with disaster relief services and local housing assistance programs.

Ready.gov

    • Website: www.ready.gov
    • Guidance on rebuilding safely and preparing for future disasters.


Fire Advocate Public Adjustor

If you're struggling with the process and need assistance, consider doing your research and hiring a fire advocate to guide you. They can help with a variety of issues, including:

  • Insurance Claims
    • A fire advocate can help ensure that the insurance company adequately reimburses the victim. 
  • Liability Claims
    • A fire advocate can help pursue a claim against a responsible party, such as a landlord or corporation.
  • Negotiation
    • A fire advocate can help write a document to negotiate with the offender or their insure

Let’s Rebuild Together If you’re ready to begin rebuilding or simply have questions about the process, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our consultations are free for Fire victims. we Are committed to providing honest, reliable guidance.

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