David Brancaccio on rebuilding in Altadena

"Marketplace Morning Report" host David Brancaccio and his wife lost their new home to one of the fires that recently ravaged Southern California.
He talks us through what he's learned about rebuilding in the aftermath: www.marketplac...

[@vav413]

Thank you for sharing David im glad you are safe im sorry for your loss!

[@brentfisher6484]

Long time listener and fan. So sorry to hear you and your family lost your home in the firestorm. I think there are so many lessons for LA to learn from we here in Santa Rosa area from our 2017 fire storm. Lessons about how to speed up the rebuild process. But more importantly how to reestablish community. Rebuilding with fireproof materials is much easier now since so many other areas have witnessed similar fire events. Products like ICF and intumescent air vents (that close up as fire approaches) are readily available and they are cost competitive now (not so much in the past). All the best,

[@joepiker]

I have listened to your reports on NPR for a long time. I think this is the very best report I have heard you do. Good luck to you, stay strong, and be of good cheer! ( from a fellow Californian)!

[@lucymartinez3246]

Looking forward to your journey rebuilding.

[@meghamama]

David you’re an absolute treasure. Wishing so hard for the bright recovery promised by the resilient orange tree ❤

[@brianallen4657]

I wish you the best David. Sounds like you may be better off than many others but that's little consolation for your situation. Would be interesting if you did periodic progress videos as you go through the process of (hopefully) rebuilding.

[@clarkleakins879]

Reccomend you consider a company that can take your plans, and factory pre build (pre fab) the structure. Plumbing and electric and insulation at the factory. Can be more "square" than field built. Each wall, roof truss, etc arrives on a truck. Assembled and ready for occupancy in 90 days. This will substantially reduce rebuild costs. And some constructors use metal wall studs, meets earthquake codes, which is much less cost than wood. Additionally important because you still have a mortgage! The eves properly designed, with a peak vent, will prevent mold. Not a big issue. Concrete, or metal exterior facia, that meets certain criteria, can heartily defend against another fire. How much wild area close to you is now gone? It may be decades before another fire comes close. Your insurance may be easier to obtain. First, city utilities have to be re established. You focus on getting a qualified architect. Knowing what you can afford. Finding a qualified experienced contractor will be tough. Recognize that navigation of the city permits will be the challenge. THIS is where YOUR reporting may be able to PUSH the city plan reviewers to required 50+ hour work weeks. THEY MUST work faster, no more relaxing. Best wishes!

[@nannerz1994]

Definitely take a video of you returning that router. 😂 Also I don't think I'd eat that orange but it is surprising to see that even after almost a month they're still growing! Most importantly please wear a mask when you step on all that stuff you're kicking up all sort of toxins.