Seven Deadly Mistakes to Avoid When Rebuilding After a Wildfire

When facing the reality of a wildfire, the trauma of losing your home, your neighborhood, and your sense of everyday life can be overwhelming. Stress, grief, and uncertainty make it hard to focus and, on top of that, make major decisions about design, permits, or insurance policies, it’s way to much.

But the choices you make in these early stages matter. The rebuilding process is full of critical steps, and skipping or misjudging them can lead to serious consequences, delays, extra costs, or even rebuilding a home that’s still vulnerable to future fires.

This checklist is intended to help you slow down, stay grounded, and avoid the most common and costly missteps during post-fire recovery. Take your time. Seek help when needed. And remember: rebuilding right the first time will save you time, money, and heartache in the long run.

Wildfire recovery isn’t just about rebuilding your home; it’s about rebuilding wisely. In the aftermath of the devastating 2025 fires, hundreds of residents in Pasadena and the foothill area are beginning their recovery journeys. However, costly mistakes made in the early stages can lead to delays, budget overruns, and long-term vulnerability.

Here’s what every homeowner should avoid when rebuilding after a wildfire, based on official guidance from the LA County Planning Department, USGBC Wildfire Rebuilding Guide, and real homeowner timelines documented by the Los Angeles Times.

MISTAKE #1: Ignoring Updated Building Codes

California building codes are updated every three years. All rebuilds must follow the latest Title 24, Chapter 7A standards for homes in fire-prone zones.

Key Point: Chapter 7A requires ember-resistant vents, non-combustible roofing, and fire-rated exterior walls. These are not optional if you’re in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ).

More about Chapter 7A Requirements.

MISTAKE #2: Using Flammable Materials

Windblown embers are the #1 cause of home ignition in wildfires, not direct flames. Using untreated wood, plastic vents, vinyl siding, or flammable insulation can undo all your hard work.

Smart Alternatives:

• Class A Roofing (e.g., metal, tile or asphalt with fire-resistant underlayment)
• Mineral wool or fiberglass insulation
• Fiber cement or stucco siding
• Tempered glass and non-combustible window frames

Explore this Wildfire Defense Toolkit.

MISTAKE #3: Skipping Defensible Space Planning

Why it matters: Your landscaping is just as critical as your structure. The first five feet around your home should be non-combustible, with no wood fences, mulch, or vegetation that could catch embers.

Pro Tips:

• Use gravel or pavers within five feet of the home
• Plant native, drought-tolerant species beyond that zone
• Keep trees pruned and maintain 100 feet of defensible space

Check LA County Fire’s Defensible Space Guidelines.

MISTAKE #4: Not Vetting Contractors

Wildfire rebuilding has attracted a flood of contractors, some of whom are excellent while others are not. Unlicensed or uninsured builders can jeopardize your timeline and budget.

What to Do:

• Verify licenses with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB)
• Ask for wildfire rebuild experience and local code knowledge
• Review portfolios and check references
• Never pay more than 10 percent or $1,000 up front, whichever is less

MISTAKE #5: Overlooking Your Insurance Timeline

Insurance companies have strict deadlines for claims, reimbursement, and rebuilding. Waiting too long to submit your loss inventory or start work could void benefits.

What to Do Now:

• Document all damage and expenses
• Request Additional Living Expenses (ALE) extensions
• Hire a public adjuster if overwhelmed
• Review United Policyholders’ wildfire insurance guidance

MISTAKE #6: Missing Out on Permitting Help and Fee Waivers

Local governments are offering expedited permitting and, in some cases, fee waivers to wildfire victims. If you’re not aware of these programs, you may pay more and wait longer than necessary.

What to Check:

• Pasadena Planning & Community Development
• LA County’s Disaster Recovery Zoning (Chapter 22.256)
• Emergency Executive Orders from Mayor Karen Bass (if the property is in the City of Los Angeles)
• LA County Rebuilding Portal
• Pasadena Building & Safety

MISTAKE #7: Rebuilding Without Resilience in Mind

Rebuilding is your one shot to prepare for the next fire, quake, or flood. Building the same home may meet the minimum requirements, but it won’t protect your family in the long term.

Smart Additions:

• Backup battery and solar power
• All-electric appliances (better indoor air quality)
• Fire-rated fences, decks, and gates
• Passive design for cooling during outages

Download this Wildfire Rebuilding Guide (PDF).

Local Rebuilding Support

Key Resources:

• LA County Recovery & Permitting: recovery.lacounty.gov
• USGBC Wildfire Defense Toolkit: usgbc-ca.org
• AIA Architect Support: AIA Ask an Architect Program
• City of Pasadena ADU and Permit Guidance: cityofpasadena.net

Final Thought: Recovery Is a Marathon, Not a Sprint

According to Los Angeles Times reporting, most homeowners face a 12–24 month timeline to complete wildfire rebuilds. Don’t rush the foundation of your future. Instead, focus on making smart, safe, and sustainable decisions now, because your next home should be built to outlast the next fire.