California has strengthened building standards for new constructions in high-hazard areas since 2008, but many homes in vulnerable regions are older and require improvements. Since 2020, California has invested over $50 million in home hardening projects but lacks sufficient funding for broader impact. Despite newer homes having better survival rates in wildfires, significant risks remain, as seen in the devastating 2018 Paradise Camp Fire. Experts argue that strong building codes alone aren’t enough if new developments continue in fire-prone areas. A lack of federal investment further complicates efforts to enhance fire resilience, with projected costs for addressing wildfire risks potentially reaching hundreds of billions annually. Insurers may drive homeowners to retrofit properties, as more fire-resistant homes are preferable for coverage. The recent loss of homes exacerbates Southern California’s housing crisis, prompting state leaders to ease rebuilding regulations.
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