When fires tear through neighborhoods and commercial zones, the cleanup isn’t the end—it’s the beginning. For contractors rebuilding after the 2025 wildfires, the focus shifts to strong foundations, smart layouts, and dependable trades. Plumbing isn’t just another checkbox. It’s one of the most critical parts of the rebuild.
A Jobsite Story: From Ashes to Foundation
Back in March, we were called to a hillside project in the Pacific Palisades. A general contractor had just broken ground on a restaurant rebuild where the original foundation was damaged in the fire. They needed a plumbing crew that could read the new plans and work around an aggressive timeline.
We came in early. Worked side-by-side with the concrete team. Pulled permits. Installed new gas lines, water mains, grease traps, and a full drainage system—all before the first slab was poured. The contractor didn’t need to babysit. We knew what had to get done, and we stayed out of the way of other crews.
Now that restaurant is nearly ready to open again. And we’ve already been asked to handle their next project.
What Contractors Should Consider After a Fire
- Soil Shift: Fires often damage underground lines and weaken the surrounding soil. Always recheck line depth and stability before digging.
- Code Updates: Local plumbing codes may change after major fires. We stay up-to-date with what’s required for rebuilds in LA County, especially in high-risk zones.
- Water Quality & Backflow Prevention: Fire-damaged pipes can leach contaminants. Installing proper backflow devices and new copper or PEX lines is key.
- Gas Systems: Old lines are often compromised after high heat exposure. We replace them with fire-rated materials and check for leaks during every phase.
- Schedule Coordination: In rebuilds, trades have to work fast and around each other. We stay flexible and communicate clearly with GCs to keep things moving.
Whether you’re rebuilding a multi-unit apartment, a hillside home, or a restaurant kitchen, plumbing needs attention from day one. At The Pine Plumbing, we show up ready. We read your plans, bring the right tools, and get to work so you can finish your job on time.
