TR Constructions LLC | Altadena Rebuild Resource Series
Published February 2026 | Based on information shared at the Altadena Solutions Summit
The TR Constructions team recently attended the Altadena Solutions Summit, a community event where experts shared critical information for families rebuilding after the Eaton Fire. We believe every homeowner deserves access to this information, whether or not they were able to attend. Below is a summary of key takeaways from one of the summit panels. This is educational information only and should not be considered legal, financial, or tax advice. Please consult with licensed professionals for guidance specific to your situation.
The final panel at the Altadena Solutions Summit focused on the legal proceedings related to the Eaton Fire. Multiple attorneys representing fire victims shared information about where the litigation stands, what the timeline looks like, and how homeowners should think about the Edison settlement program. Here is a summary of the key points that were shared.
Where the Case Stands
Hundreds of cases have been filed against Southern California Edison and are being coordinated as a mass tort action. This is not a class action. The distinction matters.
Mass Tort vs. Class Action: In a class action, everyone is treated the same and receives the same compensation. In a mass tort, every case is evaluated individually. Someone who lost their home is treated differently from someone who lost a family member or someone who was evacuated. Every member of your household has their own individual case with their own damages.
Discovery is actively underway. Depositions are being taken. Experts have inspected Southern California Edison’s equipment, reviewed drone footage, and examined the fire origin area. The attorneys on the panel expressed strong confidence in the strength of the evidence, noting that Edison has essentially acknowledged there is no alternative explanation for the fire’s cause.
Key Timeline: January 2027
Two critical dates were emphasized.
Statute of Limitations: The deadline for filing a claim is coming up in January 2027. If you or anyone you know has not yet secured legal representation, time is running short. The attorneys strongly encouraged reaching out to a qualified attorney as soon as possible.
Bellwether Trials: The first trials are set to begin in early 2027. These initial cases will set important precedents for how remaining cases are evaluated and resolved.
The Edison Settlement Program: What Was Said
Southern California Edison has launched a direct compensation program that offers to settle claims without going through the litigation process. The attorneys on the panel shared their analysis of what this program offers and what it does not.
Concerns Raised About the Edison Program
- The amounts being offered were described as significantly less than what attorneys believe families would be entitled to through a jury trial or negotiated settlement
- The program was described as offering roughly $500 per square foot for home rebuilds, which may not cover actual construction costs in the current market
- Personal property reimbursement was described as approximately $25,000 total for all belongings, which attorneys noted would barely cover basic furnishing for a single room
- The program does not address environmental contamination from lead and asbestos in soil and in standing homes (described as a potentially billion-dollar issue unique to this fire because of the age of many Altadena homes)
- If you participate, you give up your right to have an attorney negotiate on your behalf with Edison
- Under inverse condemnation law in California, Edison is obligated to pay 100% of your attorney’s fees in litigation. The settlement program’s offer to cover a 10% contingency was described as Edison saving money, not helping homeowners
The panelists emphasized: if you are considering the Edison settlement, talk to an attorney first. Multiple firms at the summit offered to do a side-by-side comparison showing what the Edison deal would pay versus what they believe you would receive through the litigation.
Smoke and Ash Cases: A Group That Should Not Be Overlooked
One attorney specifically highlighted homeowners whose houses are still standing but suffered smoke and ash damage. These individuals were described as a significantly underrepresented group in the litigation.
According to the panel, smoke and ash cases can be worth substantial amounts. In some situations, homes may need to be taken down to the studs because of asbestos and lead contamination. Insurance companies may not cover the full remediation. The attorneys emphasized that having a standing home does not mean you do not have a case, and that there are potentially thousands of impacted homeowners who have not yet sought legal representation.
A Message for the Latino Community
One attorney specifically highlighted a UCLA study showing that Latino community members have been significantly underrepresented in seeking any form of assistance after the fire. The panel emphasized that immigration status is completely irrelevant to filing a claim if you are a fire victim. Attorney-client conversations are protected by privilege. If you or someone you know has been hesitant to come forward, the attorneys encouraged reaching out.
Moving Forward with Your Rebuild While the Case Is Pending
An important question was raised about whether you can rebuild now and still participate in the litigation. The answer is yes.
- If you have received insurance proceeds, you can use them to rebuild. Insurance payments are deducted from any future award, so you are not double-dipping.
- You can finance and build your home now while the case proceeds
- The most important thing is to document everything: every cost, every receipt, every item lost. The attorneys are currently filing detailed damage documentation with the court.
A Note on Rebuild Quality
One attorney made a point that is worth repeating. He said that if you spend $300 per square foot to rebuild, Edison will evaluate your claim based on $300 per square foot. If you build a home that truly reflects what you lost, which may be $800 to $1,000 per square foot, your claim will reflect that value. Going with the cheapest possible rebuild option could limit what you ultimately recover.
What to Look For in Legal Representation
The panelists offered straightforward guidance for selecting an attorney.
- Find counsel you trust and who will listen to your story
- Make sure you have a signed legal services agreement. Some homeowners believe they are represented but have no executed agreement and have had no contact with their attorney’s office. If that is your situation, follow up immediately.
- Your damages are not limited to physical property. They include emotional distress, medical issues, lost wages, and other impacts.
- Be cautious of attorneys who knock on your door unsolicited, just as you would be cautious of unsolicited contractors
The statute of limitations for the Eaton Fire litigation is approaching in January 2027. If you or someone you know has not yet spoken with an attorney, the panelists strongly encouraged doing so as soon as possible.
About TR Constructions
TR Constructions LLC is a fully licensed Class B General Contractor (CA License #926469) with over 26 years of experience in residential, commercial, and industrial construction. We are actively helping Altadena families navigate the rebuild process. If you have questions about rebuilding your home, call us at (626) 542-1609 or visit trconstructionsllc.com to schedule a free consultation.
