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- The Building Insider: September 2025
The Building Insider: September 2025
Lance Luke
August 29, 2025
Wildfires don’t just destroy buildings—they expose how prepared or unprepared we really are. And without a clear recovery plan, rebuilding can become overwhelming, costly, and chaotic. In this month’s newsletter, we take a closer look at smart recovery strategies from Lance’s latest book, Lahaina Wildfire – Search & Recover. Then Plan & Rebuild. This essential guide breaks down the disaster’s aftermath, provides expert advice on safe reconstruction, and shares practical steps to help protect your home and community from future wildfire threats.
Labor Day
Celebrate Labor Day by honoring the hardworking individuals who keep our communities strong and resilient. Observed on the first Monday of September, Labor Day recognizes the contributions of workers across all industries—from construction and inspection to planning and rebuilding. In Hawai‘i, this day reminds us of the dedication it takes to build safe, lasting communities. In that spirit, our featured book, Lahaina Wildfire – Search & Recover. Then Plan & Rebuild, provides critical insight into recovery after disaster and offers practical steps for smarter rebuilding. It’s a must-read for those working to protect lives, homes, and neighborhoods. Here’s to a proud, resilient, and well-deserved Labor Day celebration!
Featured Book
Lahaina Wildfire – Search & Recover. Then Plan & Rebuild arms homeowners, community leaders, and concerned citizens with the knowledge to understand what went wrong and how to rebuild smarter. Learn what caused the 2023 disaster, uncover critical system failures, and explore practical steps for recovery and fire prevention. A must-read guide filled with firsthand insights, expert recommendations, and real-world advice to help protect your community and restore Lahaina with care and resilience.
Download available for 30 days only.
Rebuilding Lahaina: A Community Rising from the Ashes
 | In August 2023, Lahaina on the island of Maui was devastated by one of the deadliest wildfires in U.S. history. Over 100 lives were lost, and centuries of cultural heritage were reduced to ashes. Nearly two years later, Lahaina is slowly but steadily transforming from a site of tragedy into a symbol of resilience and hope. |
Affordable Housing in Hawai‘i: Bridging the Gap Between Paradise and Reality
 | Hawai‘i is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm aloha spirit. Yet for many local residents, the cost of living—particularly the cost of housing—poses a growing threat to their ability to remain in the islands they call home. |
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Q&A: Ask the Building Expert
Question: We live in a hillside neighborhood in Los Angeles that was hit hard by the recent wildfire. While our homes are still standing, many sustained smoke and minor fire damage. We’re unsure whether to proceed with full restoration now or wait until the city finalizes post-wildfire building code updates. What’s the smartest way to move forward without risking wasted costs?
Answer: After a wildfire, even homes that appear structurally sound may have hidden damage—especially to roofing, siding, insulation, and electrical systems. The best first step is to get a thorough post-fire inspection by licensed professionals who are familiar with both wildfire damage and California’s building codes. Request detailed reports and repair estimates for current conditions, but hold off on major structural changes until the city finalizes any code updates. In the meantime, address urgent issues such as roof leaks, smoke remediation, and safety hazards to prevent further damage. Staying informed about code changes and working with a construction manager can help you plan repairs that meet new standards, avoid rework, and make the most of insurance payouts or available grants.
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