More than a year after the January 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, new data indicates that 76% of affected homeowners have started the process of rebuilding their properties.
The research released by Bluebeam, a developer of solutions for architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals, shows that residents are increasingly adopting fire-resistant designs to mitigate future risks.
While reconstruction is moving forward, 34% of survey respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the current speed of recovery.
Financial hurdles remain a primary concern for the community.
Cost and financing difficulties affect 43% of those rebuilding, while 34% cite insurance complications and 29% report labor shortages.
Nearly 30% of homeowners remain unsure if full reconstruction of their original property is possible under existing building requirements.
Regulatory delays continue to hinder the pace of recovery as 88% of homeowners who applied for building permits experienced processing setbacks.
The Bluebeam study found that only 4% of residents secured permits within one month.
A further 25% obtained approval within two months, though most timelines far exceed the typical 30- to 60-day targets.
To address these bottlenecks, 66% of residents are looking toward the City of LA Standard Plan Pilot Program to simplify the approval process.
This initiative provides a library of pre-approved, code-compliant home designs intended to move projects from the planning phase to construction more efficiently.
The Foothill Catalog Foundation (TFCF), a nonprofit partner of Bluebeam, is currently utilizing this program to offer over 40 unique pre-approved designs.
TFCF completed its first modular home rebuild in early 2026 and currently has hundreds of additional projects scheduled.
The report indicates a widespread shift toward hardened property standards, with 83% of residents planning to use wildfire-resistant materials in their new homes.
Specific upgrades under consideration include fire-resistant roofing, ember-resistant vents, and non-combustible building materials.
Property owners are also incorporating defensible space planning into their site layouts to increase protection.
Confidence in future preparedness has risen for 65% of respondents as a result of these technical upgrades.
Don Jacobs, Chief Innovation Officer at Bluebeam, said: “As homeowners rebuild, we’re seeing a meaningful shift toward resilient design that prioritizes long-term safety and durability.
“This research also highlights the opportunity to simplify and connect the systemsbehind rebuilding – particularly permitting – to remove delays and uncertainty.
“By streamlining permitting pathways, embracing resilient design, and fostering collaboration across all parties involved in the rebuild effort, we can help families return home faster and build communities that are stronger, safer, and better prepared for future wildfires.”
