insightsHome Hardening & Rebuilding
See Arch has supported Northern and Southern California communities in rebuild efforts following the 2017 (Tubbs), 2020 (Complex), and 2025 (Eaton & Palisades) fires.
We’ve gathered the latest resources to help guide homeowners considering a rebuild, or simply looking to fire-harden their existing home.
PATHS FOR REBUILDINGBuild Like-for-Like
There are often expedited permitting paths to fast-track a rebuild in a similar size/ configuration as your original home.
Example in LA County: Like-for-like rebuilds involve up to 200 sq.ft. more or 110% the home’s original size, footprint, height. The home’s style, interior layout and window/ door configurations may be different and it will still qualify as a like-for-like.
Build Something New
This path will follow a typical permitting process, which generally involves Planning design review (a somewhat lengthy and subjective process) as well as Building, Fire, Public Works, Landscape and other related departmental reviews.
The timeline to build new depends on your jurisdiction and in the case of a rebuild, expedited paths may still be an option even if you’re not rebuilding like-for-like.
Temporary Housing
Install a temporary structure on your property for up to 3 years while you consider rebuilding options.
In the case of LA County, you may apply for a County Disaster Recovery Permit to live within a legal temporary structure.
Areas to consider for home hardeningRebuilding a fire-resistant home relies on a "code-plus" approach that hardens the structure against airborne embers, radiant heat, and direct flame contact. Because up to 90% of home losses during wildfires are caused by embers entering hidden gaps, modern resilient design focuses on eliminating ignition points from the roof down to the surrounding landscape.
Defensible Space
Remove small combustible plants, ground surface materials and fences from the initial 5’ nearest your home.
Space plantings at least 5’ from combustible landscape elements like trellises and fences.
Ensure plant species are native as they often involve natural fire-resistant properties.
Consider upgrading wood decks, railings and fencing to non-combustible types.
Resistant Materials
Non-combustible cladding materials installed on wall and and roof surfaces serve as the first line of defense when your home is exposed to extreme heat or flame. Non-combustible materials will avoid contributing to an existing fire and may also buy precious time in protecting your structure.
Eliminate Venting
Where possible, eliminating crawlspace and attic vents (replace with unvented, conditioned space) can greatly reduce the chances that embers will enter your structure and be the cause of combustion.
If removing vents is not a viable option, considering upgrading to a WUI-compliant vent that will close when in contact with extreme heat.
Box-in Eaves & Protect Gutters
Simple changes to your home may involve enclosing corners and crevices where embers may get trapped and ignite.
Enclosing eaves with a fire-resistant or non-combustible cladding material and covering guards with an approved metal mesh are great first steps to hardening vulnerable areas of your home’s envelope.
Tempered Windows
If considering replacing your windows or doors, tempered glass is about 4x more resistant to thermal fractures than standard glass. Note that windows are only as strong as their frames. Vinyl or wood frames can fail long before the tempered glass when subjected to extreme heat or flame. Consider aluminum, or aluminum clad windows.
Ensure all exterior doors including garage doors are weather stripped will provide a tight seal against embers.
organizations
& ResourcesAmerican Institute of Architects
Are you looking for an architect? Your local AIA chapter can help connect you with architects and may have specific post-wildfire support materials for you to access.
LA County Recovers & LA Strong
LA County & LA City Permit and Homeowner Resources.
Sonoma Resiliency
Sonoma County permit process, rebuild data and homeowner resources.
USGBC CA
US Green Building Council California chapter are leading the way in defining and supporting resilient home rebuilds, refer to a few of their key resources below.
Insurance FAQs
Resources to inform existing or future coverage and policies as they may relate to high-risk areas.
Mortgage and Lending Support
Selection of homeowner resources related to disaster-relief lending programs.
Finding & Hiring a Builder
Resources to support assessment of a potential builder. Lean on your Architect to assist in review a builder’s licensing status, contract and pricing structure.
Home Building Incentives
Many incentive programs are available to new homes, with certifications offering reduced insurance premiums, increased home values and product rebates.
Cal Fire
Resources for assessing existing home-hardiness and designing a fire resistant home.
Foothill Catalog
Altadena-specific catalog of pre-permitted homes designed by architects ready to engage with and build.
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AIA Pasadena Foothills offers free consultations to Eaton and Palisades fire survivors.
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Book a 30 minute chat at no cost with Principal, Sarah Ebner to discuss your circumstances, what resources may be most relevant and possible next steps.