understanding “LIke for Like”
Maybe you’ve heard of the magic way to speed up your rebuild process. Let’s break down what it means and how it affects your build.
To use this guide you’ll need to know your square footage. You can find a guide and instructions on that here.
*This information has been checked for accuracy and non-bias by licensed insurance experts and representatives from National 501c3’s specialized in insurance advocacy. We are not insurance brokers. Consult with a licensed professional about your insurance policy and specific situation.
what is
“Like for Like”
“Like for Like” means you want to build the same square footage that you had before, with an up to 10% increase.
You can rearrange the inside layout, do a totally different design, and change the exterior, as long as the total square footage doesn’t exceed 10% more than you had before.
For example: If your house was formerly 1,500 square feet, your new house can be up to 1,650 square feet and still count as “Like For Like.”
If you go with a “Like for Like” build, your building permits can be expedited, potentially saving you months of rebuild time.
FAQs
Can I rearrange the inside?
Yes, you can completely change the interior layout.
Can I change the siding?
You can change everything about the home as long as it stays within the size limit and meets code.
How much bigger can I build?
To count as Like For Like you are allowed to build up to 10% more than the square footage the county had on file for you. For a guide to figuring this out, click here.
Does it have to be the same style of house?
No. It can be a completely different style.
Is this the same in Altadena and the Palisades?
Yes. This is a City and County-wide rule.
Tip
“Like for Like” does not mean you have to use the same design. There are a number of architects offering plans at discounted rates or for free that might qualify you as “Like For Like.”
What is a
“Custom Build”
If you want to build a bigger house than 110% of what you had pre-fire it is considered a “Custom Build.”
The City and County have committed to putting fire survivors rebuild permits “at the front of the line” for review, but custom build plans take longer to pass through plan check than “like for like” plans.
Tip
The American Institute of Architects offers an “Ask An Architect” program through which you can sit with a licensed professional and ask them questions, for free.
how does like for like affect my timeline?
*Construction is famous for taking longer than anticipated, so the below are just illustrative examples.
Like For Like:
Design & Engineering - 3-6 months
Plan check and permits - 2-4 months
(There is some overlap in these so expect 6-8 months)
Build - 9-12 months
Time to moving back in: 15-20 months
Custom Build:
Design & Engineering - 3-6 months
Permits - 2-6 months
(There is some overlap in these so except 8-10 months)
Build - 9-12 months
Time to moving back in: 15-24 months
What are
Pre-Approved plans
Many firms are now offering pre-approved plans, which are designs that the City or County have already signed off on. These can’t be changed very much, but can speed through the permit process if a quicker timeline is your highest priority.
Tip
If speed is your most critical concern, finding pre-approved plans for a house 110% or less than the size you had pre-fire would be the fastest approach to beginning your build.
“What Can I afford?”
For a full guide to affordability, and a template for a calculator click here.