The Palisades fire has changed the landscape of one of Los Angeles’ most beloved communities.
If you’re a homeowner facing the prospect of rebuilding, you’re likely dealing with insurance companies, city permits, and the emotional weight of starting over — all at once.
At Hexagon Design + Build, we’ve helped hundreds of families rebuild after fire damage across Southern California. Here’s what you need to know.
Step 1: Document Everything
Before any cleanup begins, thoroughly document the damage. Take photos and videos of every room, exterior wall, and structural element. Your insurance company will require this. If you’ve already had cleanup done, ask your contractor for their assessment photos.
Step 2: Understand Your Insurance Coverage
Most homeowner policies in Pacific Palisades include dwelling coverage (the structure), personal property coverage (contents), and additional living expenses (ALE) while you’re displaced. However, many policies have coverage limits that may fall short of actual rebuild costs — especially given current construction prices in the Palisades area, which typically range from $350 to $600+ per square foot.
A qualified contractor can provide a detailed rebuild estimate that helps you identify any coverage gaps early.
Step 3: Choose the Right Contractor
This is the most important decision you’ll make. Look for:
- Active CSLB (Contractors State License Board) license — verify at cslb.ca.gov
- General liability and workers’ compensation insurance
- Specific experience with fire damage reconstruction (not just general remodeling)
- A portfolio of completed projects in the Los Angeles area
- References from past fire rebuild clients
- A clear, written contract with timeline and payment schedule
Step 4: Navigate Permits and Approvals
Rebuilding in Pacific Palisades requires permits from the City of Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety. The permitting timeline varies, but experienced contractors with established relationships at LADBS can often expedite the process. Expect 2–4 months for permits on a straightforward rebuild, potentially longer if you’re making significant changes to the original footprint.
Step 5: Consider Upgrades While You Rebuild
A fire rebuild is a rare opportunity to modernize your home. Many Palisades homeowners are choosing to add:
- Fire-resistant roofing, siding, and decking materials
- Ember-resistant vents and dual-pane tempered glass windows
- Updated electrical and plumbing to current code
- Energy-efficient HVAC, solar panels, and insulation
- Smart home systems for security, lighting, and climate
- Open floor plans and modernized layouts
Timeline and Costs: What to Expect
A typical Pacific Palisades fire rebuild takes 12 to 18 months from permits to completion. Costs vary based on home size, design complexity, finishes, and site conditions. At Hexagon Design + Build, we provide a detailed, transparent estimate upfront so there are no surprises.
We’re Here to Help
If you’re a Pacific Palisades homeowner affected by the fire, we offer free on-site consultations. We’ll assess your property, discuss your options, and create a clear plan for moving forward.
Call us at (310) 601-6785 or visit our Fire Rebuild page to learn more.
