Miyamoto: LA Fire Recovery & Rebuilding Experts
We are a purpose-driven engineering and disaster reconstruction firm with a humanitarian focus. Our coalition of experts has helped hundreds of thousands of families worldwide rebuild their homes quickly and safely.
Our coalition of insurance adjustment experts, environmental specialists, structural and geotechnical engineers, architects, and insurance experts is ready to assist you during the fire recovery process – all covered by your insurance claim.
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A. Post-Fire & Smoke Investigation
Smoke can create hazardous living conditions requiring professional assessment.
Our Investigation Includes:
- Combustion By-Product Samples (PLM analysis + Optical Microscopy for presumptive soot identification)
- Lead Dust Wipe Samples
- Asbestos Vacuum Samples
Combustion By-Product Sampling We collect samples from representative locations or surfaces as determined by our on-site professionals on a case-by-case basis. Surface samples for combustion by-products (soot, char, and ash) are collected using tape lift or alcohol wipe methods and submitted to an accredited lab (Eurofins-CEI or similar) under chain of custody for analysis.
Lead Dust Wipe Sampling Following EPA and HUD standards based on ASTM ES 30-94 methodology, we collect two lead dust wipe samples using GhostWipes. Surface lead dust levels are measured and analyzed by Flame Atomic Absorption (FAA) with results available within one week.
Asbestos Vacuum Sampling Two vacuum samples are taken using a high-volume air pump through a PCM cassette. Samples are analyzed via Phase Contrast Microscopy to determine presence or absence of asbestos fibers.
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) assessment
B. Expert Insurance Navigation
Let our dedicated team guide you through the complexities of your insurance policy. We'll help ensure that each step—from debris removal to final inspection—maximizes your benefit from your insurance policy, so you can focus on what matters most: living normal.
C. Phase 1 & Phase 2 Consultation
Let our experts guide you through the government's official cleanup process. Phase 1 (EPA hazardous waste removal) and Phase 2 (general debris removal) are critical steps in your recovery. We'll ensure you navigate these phases efficiently while maximizing your insurance coverage and expediting the reconstruction process.
D. Architectural Design and Engineering
With our coalition of architectural firms, our team will provide the most suitable, fire-resistant architectural and engineering plans for construction. Our comprehensive solutions include:
- Architecture
- Engineering
- Geotechnical
- Cost Consultancy
- Entitlement Services
E. Streamlined Permitting & Quality Control of Construction
Efficient Permitting, built on quality control. We manage the permitting process by working closely with local authorities, securing approvals promptly so your project stays on track. During massive reconstruction of communities, quality becomes a serious issue. Our approach is grounded in “quality-controlled construction” (not just quality control), ensuring that every phase of the rebuild meets strict standards for economy, resiliency, and compliance.
Construction Risk Management
We provide extensive construction risk management services to protect your investment:
- Construction Loan Monitoring
- Plan & Cost Review
- Site Observation Reports
- Cost to Complete Analysis
- Integrated Physical Needs Assessments
All Services Covered by Your Insurance
We understand cost can be a major concern after a disaster. Rest assured that all our services are covered by your insurance, minimizing out-of-pocket expenses and giving you peace of mind throughout the recovery process.
Your team
Miyamoto provides comprehensive post-fire investigation and recovery services throughout Southern California. Our experts are ready to help you navigate through this difficult time with professional guidance and support at every step.
Structural Engineer and Reconstruction Expert, CEO
Dr. H. Kit Miyamoto, Global CEO of Miyamoto International, is a world-renowned structural engineer and disaster resilience expert. As California’s Seismic Safety Commission Chair and President of Miyamoto Global Disaster Relief, he leads reconstruction efforts following major disasters worldwide. Living in Topanga, his connection to LA’s recovery is both professional and deeply personal. Recently awarded Engineering News-Record’s 2024 Award of Excellence, Dr. Miyamoto brings unique insights from decades of international post-disaster recovery experience to help guide LA’s reconstruction efforts.
Principal, Structural Engineer
Traci Wong is a Principal at Miyamoto International. With over 25 years of experience, she has played a pivotal role in designing and retrofitting residential, commercial, healthcare, and educational facilities, as well as preserving historic structures. Born and raised in the Palisades, she brings unique local insight to fire-recovery efforts. As a board member of SEAOSC, she will be working with building departments on the permit process for fire reconstruction.
Senior Principal
Sabine Kast is a Senior Principal at Miyamoto International, where she leads global disaster preparedness and reconstruction programs. As the Executive Director of Miyamoto Global Disaster Relief, she focuses on protecting vulnerable communities, particularly schools and children, in disaster-affected regions. With extensive expertise in disaster risk management and recovery, she has successfully led multi-disciplinary teams and projects across the U.S., Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia, and the Pacific. Sabine is also pursuing PhD research at the University of Tokyo, specializing in disaster resilience and risk management.
Technical Director of Fire & Smoke Investigation
Benjamin Hildebrand is an industry-leading expert in fire and smoke investigation with a decade of industrial hygiene and environmental experience. As Technical Director at Hillmann Consulting, a 250-person building science firm, he oversees complex fire-related investigations and ensures compliance with OSHA, EPA, and NIOSH regulations. Having led hundreds of high-profile projects, he collaborates with local, state, and federal authorities while providing advanced technical guidance.
CEO & Founder | WorldClaim
Andrew J. Fusco is the CEO and Founder of WorldClaim, a global leader in public adjusting and disaster recovery. With over 40 years of experience, he has secured multi-million-dollar settlements for commercial, residential, and government clients worldwide. Having led catastrophe recovery efforts in over 70 natural disasters, Andrew is a recognized expert in complex claims, risk management, and business interruption negotiations. Licensed across 45 U.S. states and internationally, he holds multiple professional designations, including SPPA, SCLA, CPIU, and AIC, and is an active member of leading insurance organizations.
Contact Our Recovery Team​
Save lives, impact economies.
- +1 833.270.8848
- Aon Center, 707 Wilshire Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90017