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After fire or water damage: the first steps that protect your home and your claim

The first days after damage are stressful. A few clear steps help protect your home, your family and your insurance claim.

1. Safety first

Do not enter a home with structural damage, standing water near electrical outlets, or a gas smell. Call the utility company or emergency services if there is any doubt.

2. Document everything

Before anything is moved or cleaned, take photos and video of every room, every damaged item and the source of the damage if you can see it. This record is the foundation of your claim.

3. Contact your insurance company

Report the claim and write down the claim number, your adjuster's name and every conversation. Ask what your policy covers for temporary housing if the home is not livable.

4. Prevent further damage

Most policies expect you to take reasonable steps to stop more damage — tarping a roof, boarding up openings, shutting off water. Keep receipts for anything you spend.

5. You can choose your contractor

In California, you have the right to choose your own licensed contractor. Check the license on the CSLB website and make sure the contractor carries liability insurance.

6. Get an itemized estimate

A detailed, line‑item estimate makes it easier for your adjuster to review the scope. If something is missed, a supplement can be submitted with documentation.

7. Rebuild to code

Repairs are permitted and inspected like any other construction. Older homes sometimes need upgrades to meet current code during the rebuild — ask whether your policy includes code‑upgrade coverage.

General information only — every policy is different. Read your policy and talk to your insurer or a licensed professional about your specific claim.

Have a project like this?Free on‑site consultation. You deal with the owner.

General information, not legal or engineering advice. Rules vary by city and change; confirm with your city before relying on them. Prices are estimates only.

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★★★★★
Google

“We hired Pacific Proworks Inc. to build our custom home from the ground up on a steep, hilly lot and I can confidently say they were the best decision we made. From day one, their team was organized, professional, and incredibly knowledgeable about hillside construction, permitting in Santa Clarita, and the structural challenges that came with our property. Where other contractors gave us excuses, Pacific Proworks gave us solutions.”

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Victoria ZepedaCustom home · Santa Clarita
★★★★★
Google

“Wow!!! What can I say other than we are so grateful to Pacific Proworks Inc., your whole team was incredible! The construction of our 1,000 square foot ADU turned out better than expected, and the whole process for the ADU was seamless, from blueprints to completion. Denette helped me design the ADU to maximize the space and include features I wanted.”

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Edwin Ter Galstanyan1,000 SF ADU
★★★★★
BuildZoom

“We hired Pacific Proworks Inc. to convert our detached garage into a full ADU, and I can honestly say it was one of the best contractor experiences we’ve ever had. They walked us through the permitting process, helped with design decisions, and managed everything — from plumbing to electrical — with zero shortcuts. The ADU turned out better than we imagined, and it’s already generating rental income.”

M
MoriaGarage → ADU
★★★★★
BuildZoom

“Pacific ProWorks completed a home addition and ADU conversion for us. They extended our family room to create a sunroom and larger dining area, added an office, and converted our garage into an ADU for my mother. Communication was always clear, and the crew was extremely respectful of our home. They cleaned and organized the job site every single day.”

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Desire A.Addition & garage conversion
★★★★★
Thumbtack

“The craftsmanship Pacific Proworks provided for our kitchen remodel was exceptional to say the least. The attention to detail in the cabinetry, tile work, and countertop installation was outstanding. The project was fast and easy, with minimal disruption to our daily routine — which we appreciated with three kids. The design recommendations from Denette created a stunning kitchen.”

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Nancy J.Kitchen remodel
★★★★★
Thumbtack

“Honestly, I was nervous going into this project because I’ve heard so many horror stories about contractors — but these guys completely changed my view. They were super easy to talk to, always showed up when they said they would, and actually listened to what I wanted. The work came out beautiful, and there were no surprise costs or drama. I’d recommend them to family, no question.”

S
Sabrina M.Pool & backyard
★★★★★
BuildZoom

“As a first‑time homeowner, I was nervous about taking on a major remodel. Pacific Proworks took the time to explain each step, gave honest advice, and never pressured me into unnecessary upgrades. Their quote was detailed and fair, and what they promised is exactly what they delivered — from the tilework in my new bathroom to the open‑concept kitchen they helped design and build.”

P
Paula X.Kitchen & bath
★★★★★
BuildZoom

“I’ve worked with a lot of contractors over the years as a property investor, and Pacific Proworks Inc. is hands‑down one of the most reliable and professional companies I’ve hired. Full renovation on one of my rental units — kitchen, bathroom, flooring, exterior — on time, within budget, and with no drama. Passed inspection without issue and helped us rent the unit at top dollar.”

J
Joe Ramen M.Rental renovation
★★★★★
Google

“Bravo! Pacific Prowork pros!!! You guys came in with so much positivity, information and unsurpassed design idea assistance with a hard working & attentive crew! Thank you for my beautiful modern kitchen and your patience with my perfect ADU!! My family could not be happier!”

J
Jacque SaucerKitchen & ADU
★★★★★
Thumbtack

“Denette and her team have made this process as easy as I could’ve hoped for! Direct and clear communication, up front about costs and pricing, and sets realistic expectations. The experience has been so good that I have other work that I want them involved in as well. If you want a contractor who is easy to work with and up front about everything, this is the one.”

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Luke T.Deck remodel
★★★★★
Google

“Denette was very clear in communicating the description, costs, and most importantly the value of my garage conversion. The crew’s excellent workmanship, communication and thoughtfulness to my desires was appreciated. I highly recommend Pacific Proworks!”

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Alara MillsGarage conversion
★★★★★
Yelp

“We needed our garage remodeled into a spare bedroom and I am grateful that I contacted Pacific Proworks! The request for a quote and scheduling service was done so quickly! It felt like in no time, I had my dream spare room. High recommend!”

H
Helen M.Garage → bedroom
★★★★★
BuildZoom

“Pacific Proworks Inc has quickly become our go‑to team for projects that require precision, accountability, and serious skill. They’re not just reliable — they’re proactive. Every deadline was hit, every detail was handled, and every promise was kept.”

M
Monica Ramirez R.Garage conversion
★★★★★
Houzz

“We had an incredible experience with Pacific Proworks Inc. From start to finish, they were professional, transparent, and detail‑oriented. They helped us plan and build our ADU, and the entire process was smoother than we expected. The communication was excellent, and every part of the job stayed on schedule and within budget.”

M
Mali DahanADU
★★★★★
Thumbtack

“Denette was very helpful, professional and trustworthy. We hired her to do our kitchen remodel and an addition to our house. Everything she did is amazing. I can’t recommend anything better than her and her company — thank you so much.”

T
Tonya M.Kitchen & addition
★★★★★
Google

“I have had a fantastic experience with this company. The workers are dedicated and professional, consistently going above and beyond to meet our needs. Their pricing is competitive. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for quality service!”

T
The MathewsKitchen & bath · Encino
★★★★★
Google

“Amazing guys and great company, we highly recommend them. We converted our garage to an ADU and Pacific did an amazing job.”

L
Lars & Mary WilliamsGarage → ADU · Van Nuys
★★★★★
Google

“Thank you Denette — my kitchen and bathroom look amazing. I can’t wait for you guys to come back and do my living room and the rest of the house.”

C
Chris ParksKitchen & bathroom · Sherman Oaks
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