Summary: The AIA California Council (AIACC) and AIA San Diego are again actively working with city and county building officials to simplify and facilitate the process of rebuilding the communities devastated by the wildfires, using programs developed from the 2003 San Diego County fires. “This is not the time to make quick decisions. Residents should educate themselves about the rebuilding process and their options,” says AIACC President Pam Touschner, AIA. “It can take two to three months for fire victims to make informed decisions about the long-term impact of rebuilding their communities, and it is incumbent upon architects to help them make the best choices for themselves and the environment.”

Local AIA chapters will be conducting workshops regarding the design, permitting, and construction process and how to work with city and county agencies to expedite permitting, allowing residents to get back into their homes as quickly as possible.

With the input of architects, the state Office of Emergency Services (OES), and the AIA, AIACC developed protocols to enable AIA volunteers to assist in the safety assessment and inspection of residential and commercial buildings.

San Diego Architect Kirk O’Brien, AIA, who has provided inspection assistance following multiple fire disasters in San Diego County, encourages residents to pay close attention to specific safety notices posted by certified inspectors in cases where homes may be partially damaged and are still standing.

Defining rebuilding
Architects are concerned with the sustainability of all buildings and the usage of materials to make the rebuilt structures as environmentally responsible and energy efficient as possible. Sustainable design also means that homes can be designed and rebuilt to enhance their capacity for survivability in disasters. Even though the recent fires were much bigger than those in 2003, far fewer lives and structures were lost due to the lessons learned and practices implemented since that time. Architects’ expertise is key in defining what the best rebuilding approach is for each respective area in California.

The AIA warns residents to watch out for potential fraudulent activity regarding damage assessment, debris removal and demolition, the process of financing, and rebuilding. The AIACC and local California chapters advise victims regarding rebuilding options and what to look for in deciding what kinds of professionals they will need, and how to select the professional who is right for them.

Local AIACC chapters also are providing lists of members and contact information for the public requesting information and referrals regarding architectural services, and citizens wanting to speak with an architect about inspection criteria or for more information regarding post-disaster activity are asked to call AIA San Diego, AIA Los Angeles, AIA Orange County, AIA Palomar, and AIA Inland California.

For more information about disaster recovery and links to important rebuilding resources, visit www.aiacc.org.