Cost of Fire-Resistant Construction
Investment Analysis: Standard vs. Fire-Resistant Building Methods
Every project is different, and the site conditions can affect the cost of construction greatly (for example, building on sand in Malibu will be more expensive than building on a flat piece of property with stable soils). The following is meant only as a generic example to illustrate how implementing fire-resistant construction can increase the cost of construction. Also, please note that I am using the descriptor of “upscale” construction, loosely based on the quality level of materials as described in the “2024 Cost vs. Value Report” which can be downloaded at costvsvalue.com. The finish materials described in this report for “upscale” projects aligns with the minimum level of finishes commonly expected in neighborhoods such as the Pacific Palisades. Luxury-level choices will result in higher prices.
Construction Cost Comparison
Standard “Upscale” Construction (Meeting Minimum Los Angeles Building Code):
Base cost: $800-1,000 per square foot
Basic fire-resistant features required by code
“Upscale” finishes but traditional wooden frame construction
Standard “upscale” windows and doors, such as metal-clad wood windows
Basic roofing materials
Standard ventilation systems
Code-minimum fire protection
Enhanced Fire-Resistant “Upscale” Construction:
Base cost: $1,000-1,300 per square foot
Additional cost increase: 25-35%
Key upgrades:
Premium cement fiber or natural stone siding: $45,000-60,000
Custom fire-rated windows with enhanced views: $75,000-100,000
Premium metal roof system: $90,000-120,000
Enhanced ventilation systems: $25,000-35,000
Fire-resistant landscaping with “upscale” design: $50,000-75,000
Comprehensive sprinkler system: $65,000-85,000
Includes:
High-pressure pump system
Backup power supply
Smart monitoring system
Exterior sprinkler coverage
Water storage tank (5,000-10,000 gallons)
In Part 3, we will summarize the 2024 Insurance Crisis that impacted many homeowners in the greater Los Angeles area.