Research showed a disproportionately high share of foreign-born workers active in the construction trades nationally in 2024. While immigrants made up one in five workers nationally, they composed one in three workers in the construction trades sector.
The highest percentage of foreign-born trade workers occurred in the seven metros that issued at least 150,000 building permits between 2019–2023. In these locations, immigrants composed 54% of the trades workforce.
In Dallas–Fort Worth–Arlington, which led the nation in homebuilding permits at 350,000, 61% of the workers in the trades had immigrated to the country.
Metros with slower housing growth still had disproportionately high shares of immigrants active in the trades. On average, metros that issued 75,000–149,999 permits had a 40% share of foreign-born trade workers, while those with fewer than 75,000 permits had a 22% share.
When categorized by specialty, foreign-born tradespeople most commonly worked as construction laborers or carpenters in 2024. They composed three-fifths of all plasterers and drywall installers in 2024 and half of all roofers, painters and carpet, tile and floor installers.
With foreign-born workers playing such an outsized role in housing production and homebuilding, negative immigration trends could signal danger for the market, according to experts.
“There is a disproportionately high share of foreign-born workers in the construction trades nationally and that share is even higher in these communities,” said Harvard Senior Research Analyst Riordan Frost. “The recent slowdown in immigration will limit foreign-born labor for the trades, however, potentially worsening chronic labor shortages and constraining the ability to build and remodel housing.”
WEEK WITH SUNSHINE. HELLO AND THANK YOU TO THE EARTH SCIENCE CLASSES AT MERRIMACK HIGH SCHOOL, WHO I VISITED WITH YESTERDAY. WE TALKED ABOUT THE TECHNOLOGY WE USE TO FORECAST STORMS, AND A RECAP OF THE BIG STORMS AND THE TYPES OF STORMS WE GET HERE IN NEW HAMPSHIRE. SOME GREAT QUESTIONS BY THEM ABOUT MY JOB AND YES, ABOUT THE ALARM CLOCK. AND AS YOU CAN SEE, WHEN THREE CLASSES SHOW UP IN A THEATER, THEY ALL SPREAD OUT. SO NO ONE IS IN THE FRONT ROW. WHEN YOU DO A HIGH SCHOOL KIND OF THE WAY THAT GOES, ISN’T IT? BUT A HUGE THANK YOU TO
News We Love: School faculty sleep on roof after fundraising success
Three faculty members at Lancaster County Christian School are sleeping on the roof as a reward for students surpassing their fundraising goal.At the beginning of this month, the school aimed to raise $500,000 to construct a new building on one of its campuses to alleviate overcrowded classrooms.Video above: Earth science classroomsThe school ended up earning more than $737,000.
LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. —
Three faculty members at Lancaster County Christian School are sleeping on the roof as a reward for students surpassing their fundraising goal.
At the beginning of this month, the school aimed to raise $500,000 to construct a new building on one of its campuses to alleviate overcrowded classrooms.
Choosing the right roof tile for your home is more than a matter of aesthetics. It’s about finding a durable, functional solution that suits the unique climate of the UK. With factors such as rainfall, temperature fluctuations, and architectural styles to consider, understanding what makes a great roof tile is essential.
In this article we’ll explore key aspects that contribute to an ideal roof covering, and why particular materials stand out in the market.
Climate adaptability
The UK is known for its changeable weather, which makes climate-resilient roofing crucial. Roof tiles need to withstand not just the rain but also wind, frost, and even occasional snow.
Clay and concrete tiles are among the most commonly used in the UK due to their robust nature. Clay tiles, in particular, can expand and contract without cracking under temperature variations, making them well-suited to the country’s fluctuating conditions.
Concrete tiles are also highly popular; they offer both durability and a range of styles that can mimic natural slate or clay. Plus, they come in various colours, which can enhance your home’s exterior. Both clay and concrete tiles are excellent durable options for pitched roof coverings, effectively managing moisture and temperature changes.
Aesthetic appeal
While functionality is paramount when it comes to roof tiles, aesthetics can’t be overlooked. The style of your roof tile can significantly influence the overall appearance of your home.
Traditional options, such as natural slate or terracotta tiles, add a timeless charm that many homeowners seek. These materials not only offer beautiful finishes but also provide enhanced durability and are resistant to colour fading.
Recent trends have also seen a rise in the popularity of modern materials like fibre cement tiles. These can replicate the appearance of traditional materials while being lighter and even more resistant to weather extremes. This versatility allows you to choose roof coverings that complement the architecture of your home without sacrificing practicality.
Weight and structure considerations
Another essential characteristic of roof tiles is their weight. The roof’s structure must support the tiles chosen, especially in older homes where original roofing materials might not bear the load of heavier tiles. Generally, clay and slate tiles are heavier, while concrete and certain modern synthetic materials are lighter, offering a more manageable weight.
When selecting roof tiles, it’s worth consulting with a professional to ensure that the existing roof structure can accommodate your chosen material. This is especially important in conservation areas or when renovating heritage properties, where strict guidelines are often in place regarding both structural integrity and aesthetic compatibility.
Longevity and maintenance
Durability is at the heart of any roofing decision. Always consider how much maintenance is required for your chosen tile. Natural slate and high-quality clay tiles can last over 100 years, showcasing their extreme durability. While you may pay more upfront for premium materials, the long lifespan often outweighs the initial investment, translating to lower long-term costs and less frequent need for replacements.
Conversely, some synthetic materials may offer a more affordable initial cost but can come with a reduced lifespan, sometimes requiring replacement after 20-30 years.
Regular inspections and maintenance can have a significant impact on the lifespan of roofing materials. Simple tasks like cleaning out gutters and checking for damage can prevent larger issues later.
Energy efficiency
Roof tiles can play a crucial role in a home’s thermal performance. Materials with high thermal mass, such as clay, can help keep homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter. This characteristic can help reduce energy costs and contribute towards a more comfortable living environment.
Innovative roofing systems that incorporate reflective coatings are also available. These are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat, making them ideal for homes in warmer regions, though they can contribute positively across the UK as temperatures rise during summer months.
Environmental impact
In today’s eco-conscious world, considering the environmental footprint of roofing materials is becoming increasingly important. Opting for sustainably sourced materials can reduce your carbon footprint. Natural slate, for example, is a highly sustainable option.
Recycling old tiles should also be a consideration during roof replacement. Many roofing companies now offer services to reclaim and reuse tiles, promoting sustainability within the roofing sector. When selecting materials, it’s worth checking the sustainability credentials of suppliers.
Selecting the right roof tile for UK homes involves much more than a simple aesthetic choice. Factors such as climate adaptability, weight, longevity, energy efficiency, and environmental impact all play pivotal roles in the decision-making process. By weighing these considerations carefully, you can make informed choices that will enhance both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your property. With the variety of durable options available, including traditional clay and modern synthetic materials, there’s a solution for every style preference and budget. So, whether you opt for the classic elegance of slate or the contemporary feel of concrete, understanding these fundamental aspects will help you choose a roof covering that truly fits your needs.
ALL RIGHT. WE’LL CHECK BACK. THANKS, HEATHER. WE HAVE SOME MORE BREAKING NEWS COMING OUT OF SACRAMENTO COUNTY RIGHT NOW, WHERE CREWS HAD TO WORK TO QUICKLY CONTAIN A HOUSE FIRE. THIS FIRE STARTED AROUND 930 IN RIO LINDA. THIS WAS NEAR BUCKBOARD DRIVE AND G STREET. WE’RE TOLD THE FIRE STARTED IN A GARAGE AND THEN SPREAD INTO THE KITCHEN AREA. NO ONE WAS HOME AT THE TIME AND NO INJURIES WERE REPORTED.
Fire damages Rio Linda home while residents away, officials say
A fire damaged a Rio Linda home on Friday night, according to the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District. Crews responded to the home on De Anza Court for the report of a fire around 9:30 p.m.Video shared by the fire department showed flames ripping through the home’s roof.Officials said a garage fire had extended into the home’s kitchen, but firefighters were able to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading further. Sac Metro Fire said no one was inside when the fire began. It’s not clear what sparked the fire, and the cause is under investigation. See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel
RIO LINDA, Calif. —
A fire damaged a Rio Linda home on Friday night, according to the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District.
Crews responded to the home on De Anza Court for the report of a fire around 9:30 p.m.
Video shared by the fire department showed flames ripping through the home’s roof.
Officials said a garage fire had extended into the home’s kitchen, but firefighters were able to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading further.
Sac Metro Fire said no one was inside when the fire began. It’s not clear what sparked the fire, and the cause is under investigation.
Multiple videos from the scene show graphic details about the killing of conservative commentator and political organizer Charlie Kirk at a university in Utah on Wednesday.
Authorities are now poring over the video as part of the investigation into Kirk’s killing. They are still looking for the gunman after briefly detaining and then freeing two people of interest.
Charlie Kirk speaks before he is fatally shot during an event Wednesday at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.
(Tess Crowley / Deseret News / AP)
The shooting
Kirk drew a large crowd to the event at Utah Valley University. He was gunned down at 12:20 p.m. while talking about mass shootings.
“Do you know how many mass shooters there have been in America over the last 10 years?” an audience member asks.
“Counting or not counting gang violence?” Kirk responds.
Almost immediately, Kirk is shot in the neck. One video shows blood pouring from the wound as he falls over. As the crowd realizes what has taken place, people are heard screaming and running away.
“This incident occurred with a large crowd around. There was one shot fired, one victim,” Beau Mason, commissioner of the Utah Department of Public Safety, said on Wednesday afternoon. “While the suspect is at large, we believe this was a targeted attack toward one individual.”
Members of the crowd screamed and ran after a gunshot was heard and Kirk toppled from his chair.
(Tess Crowley / Deseret News / AP)
The shooter is believed to have fired from the roof of a building at Kirk as he participated in the public event in the student courtyard, where around 3,000 people were gathered, according to the Department of Public Safety.
A source familiar with the investigation told The Times that a bullet struck Kirk’s carotid artery.
Jeffrey Long, chief of the university’s Police Department, said six of the force’s officers, including some plainclothes officers embedded in the crowd, were working with members of Kirk’s personal security team to manage safety at the event.
Mason, of the Utah Department of Public Safety, said authorities were analyzing campus security video that showed a suspect in dark clothing who might have shot at Kirk from a roof.
The gunman is believed to have killed Kirk from at least 200 yards away using some type of sniper rifle, law enforcement sources told The Times.
Allison Hemingway-Witty cries after the shooting.
(Tess Crowley / Deseret News / AP)
Some experts who have seen videos believe that the assailant probably had experience with firearms, given the precision with which the single shot was fired from a considerable distance.
Witness Seth Teasdale told the Salt Lake Tribune that the gunshot was so loud it echoed across the pavilion where Kirk was speaking.
Brynlee Holms told the Tribune the shot was “super loud,” which added to the panic in the crowd.
“I just heard a clear shot, ‘Boom!’ And that was it,” another witness told KUTV.
Police detained George Zinn and Zachariah Qureshi as suspects and later released them after determining they had no ties to the shooting, according to the Department of Public Safety. The manhunt for the shooter continues.
What is not shown
No videos have surfaced showing the gunman firing the shot or fleeing the scene.
Mason said authorities were reviewing closed-circuit television video. “We’re analyzing it, but it is security camera footage, so you can kind of guess what the quality of that is,” Mason said. “We do know [the suspect was] dressed in all dark clothing. We don’t have a much better description.”
Utah Gov. Stephen Cox called the attack “a political assassination” and said Wednesday was “a dark day for our state” and “a tragic day for our nation.”
Law enforcement was working “multiple active crime scenes” including the area Kirk was shot as well as the locations where the suspect and victim traveled, according to the Public Safety Department. They did not provide any further information on the suspect.
The FBI created a tip line to gather information that may lead to the shooter’s arrest.
A car careened off the road and crashed into the roof of a Rancho Palos Verdes home on Sunday evening, resulting in one person being taken to a nearby hospital.
The collision occurred around 5:50 p.m. at 28036 Santona Drive, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department.
“It sounded like the whole house exploded,” homeowner Joann Killeen told KTLA.
The driver was an older person who lost control of their vehicle on a nearby embankment and had minor injuries, said watch commander Lt. Rony Del Pinto of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
A photo from NBC Los Angeles showed the car embedded in the roof of the home. Images shared by Killeen with KTLA showed that an interior room was trashed, and a gaping hole was left in the ceiling.
Del Pinto said no one else in the home was injured and no arrest was made, calling it a “complete accident.”
A house in Discovery Bay was destroyed in a fire early Thursday morning, according to fire authorities.
The house was destroyed as a result, but no injuries were reported. No one was in the home when firefighters arrived, but there was no information if anyone had evacuated before they arrived.
The Contra Costa Fire Protection District received multiple calls after midnight of flames coming from the roof of the house, which was between Brentwood and Discover Bay. The roof partially collapsed early in the incident, a spokesperson for the fire district said.
The fire was brought under control around 2 a.m. The fire did not spread to any other houses. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Yosemite National Park’s historic Wawona Hotel is closing, and park officials are not saying when it will reopen. The hotel’s workers are being reassigned elsewhere.
One of the last times this Victorian-era hotel closed in Yosemite National Park, the raging flames from the 2022 Washburn fire had encroached and encircled the institution.
The hotel, which has the same name as the neighborhood in which it resides, was closed for two weeks that July, reopening that same month when the fires were extinguished and smoke and ash cleared.
Unlike that quick turnaround, the hotel’s next closing may not be so brief.
The National Park Service announced via Instagram on Wednesday that the 168-year-old hotel would close Dec. 2 for an unspecified period of time to allow the agency to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the hotel complex.
Yosemite Hospitality, which has run the Wawona and other park hotels since 2016, confirmed that there is no estimated reopening date.
(National Park Service)
“The NPS recently undertook a roof replacement project on the main hotel building which revealed the need for more intensive investigation and assessment of the hotel,” the National Park Service wrote.
A National Park Service spokesperson said the agency would not offer additional comment beyond its social media statement.
The Wawona Hotel issued a message saying it would issue refunds to guests with a reservation for Dec. 2 or later. The hotel said there was no estimated reopening date.
Yosemite Hospitality, which has run the Wawona and other park hotels since 2016, confirmed the indefinite closure and that hotel employees would be relocated to other positions within either Yosemite Hospitality or Aramark. Yosemite’s better-known Ahwahnee Hotel, which has welcomed guests since 1927, is open but still undergoing a $35-million earthquake retrofit.
“We have been entrusted with managing concessions at Yosemite National Park since 2016, and we hold our role as stewards of one of America’s most beloved national parks in the highest regard,” the statement read.
Yosemite Hospitality said that the hotel’s closure was necessary for the preservation of the historic building and that the group would continue to work with the National Park Service.
The two-story Wawona Hotel, nearly encircled by a Spanish-style veranda, has 50 standard rooms with private bathrooms and 54 additional rooms with shared restrooms.
While the hotel boasts of its nine-hole golf course, stables, swimming pool and lounge piano, the establishment and Yosemite Hospitality have come under criticism for safety issues in the last two years.
A 2023 annual evaluation from the federal Department of the Interior, obtained by SFGate through a Freedom of Information Act request, noted that “no significant action was taken” to address mounting safety concerns at the facility.
Yosemite Hospitality “has neglected to adequately address maintenance activities at the Wawona Hotel, which became particularly evident in 2023,” the report stated. “Extensive deterioration and damage to hotel facilities was noted on periodic evaluations conducted in 2023, in addition to Service condition assessments, including damage to railings, walkways, staircases, roofs, gutters and other physical assets.”
In June 2022, a guest fell from a porch at the hotel’s Clark Cottage after leaning on a railing that failed, according to the report.
A ceiling leak developed the following February at the Ahwahnee, also run by Yosemite Hospitality, the report said. Even though the National Park Service requested a patch, the report said, the room was still in service months later with the unfixed leak.
In April 2023, water intrusion through the roof caused a piece of the ceiling in the Ahwahnee’s dining solarium to fall and strike an employee, according to the report.
“The Service is extremely concerned about the risk to visitor and employee safety,” the report noted.
Drive around any neighborhood in Houston, and you can see for yourself that there is still plenty of leftover cleanup from Hurricane Beryl. Fences are still down, tarps still adorn rooftops, and I’m sure many Houstonians are getting (or awaiting) copious amounts of correspondence from their insurance providers.
One of the single biggest instances of property damage, though, remains in disrepair, but it looks like the end is in sight for the two gigantic, stadium-width sized holes in the roof of NRG Stadium. In a statement on Friday, the folks at NRG Park indicated that a timetable has been established under which both holes in the roof will be repaired in time for the Texans’ Week 4 home game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
“Guest safety remains our top priority,” NRG Park said in Thursday’s release. “We appreciate the patience and support of our guests as we work diligently to restore the stadium roof to its full operational capacity.”
For those unfamiliar with the exact location of the damage, and the path of the resulting sunlight on a daily basis, check out the time lapsed video below, which shows the path of sunlight from late morning into the latter portion of the afternoon, which is relevant for noon kickoff times. As you can see, particularly in the south end zone, there have been some sun soaked fans in the Texans’ two home preseason games:
Check out this time lapse of how the sun will hit the field and stands at NRG Stadium during tomorrow’s Texans vs Giants game. A couple of strips of panels were lost during Hurricane Beryl last month. If you’re attending the game, this will give you a good idea of what to expect!… pic.twitter.com/JKrCHwcsYr
The Texans’ next home game is the Week 2 Sunday Night Football game against the Chicago Bears, and after that, they play at home in Weeks 4 and 5 against the Jaguars and the Buffalo Bills, respectively. Here are some of the relevant details on the repair plan:
The panel over the field of play (around the south end 25 yard line) is getting fixed first The hole that is above the field of play never really came into play drastically during the two preseason games, other than maybe some slight agitation in location the ball on punt returns. Honestly, the biggest effect from that patch of roof damage was the glare on the television broadcast, which made it a difficult watch when the action was taking place in that area. The worst case scenario would have been rain coming through that hole and creating a patch of wet turf on an otherwise dry field. It sounds like the we are assured a clean field of play for the home opener.
It looks like the fans in the south end zone will be saved from extreme sun (again) Meanwhile, the other hole in the roof, the long open space above the south stands in the lower bowl, will be fixed in time for the next NOON kickoff in Week 4, which is a great thing, since from what I was told by fans whose seats are in that part of the stadium, the sunlight hitting them was brutally hot. The Week 2 game against the Bears is a night game, so those fans should be clear of getting fried in sunlight once again, a nice happy accident from the scheduling czars.
This situation was a whole lot worse back in 2008 If this feels like there are a whole lot of moving parts to ensure (s) the integrity of the planning field, and (b) the physical comfort of a chunk of the fan base on game day, just know that this is nothing compared to the last time Mother Nature decided to punch holes on the roof via hurricane. In 2008, Hurricane Ike did more than twice the damage just before Week 2, and the Texans were forced to play the entire season with the roof open for home games, including four games in the month of October. If you’ve ever been in NRG Stadium with the roof open on a sunny day, then you know THAT is truly brutal.
It’s no secret that our main location is old and falling apart in many places. This location, originally built to serve as the city’s municipal shelter, boasts a host of issues, but has also been a haven for so many pets since we moved here in 2012. What originally was not built for lifesaving, became the answer to APA!’s big questions — “Where are we going to go? How are we going to continue to save more lives?” And luckily, we’ve had friends along the way who have helped us with the upkeep of this shelter.
Roof access doors are essential for providing safe and convenient access for various purposes, including maintenance, repairs, inspections, and installations. That said, selecting the right product is important for ensuring safety and efficiency.
In this article, we will explore the important aspects to consider when selecting a roof access door.
Benefits of a roof access door
First, let’s understand the advantages of roof access doors in building design and management.
Safety
Accessing the roof for maintenance or repairs can be dangerous due to falls and unstable ladders. A roof access door makes the process safer by providing secure entry points. It provides a stable platform, reducing the need for risky climbs, wobbly ladders or makeshift solutions.
Roof access doors facilitate easier and safer maintenance. They also provide peace of mind, enabling you to focus on the tasks without worrying about safety concerns.
Efficient maintenance and repairs
People often forget about roofs because they are hard to reach. But ignoring roof problems can lead to expensive leaks and damage. Roof access doors make maintenance easier and prevent issues before they start.
These doors provide tradesmen with a safe and simple way to inspect, repair, and maintain roofs. Access doors also help avoid water damage, mould, and other costly problems by making it easy to keep roofs in good shape.
Lower cost
Roof repairs can become expensive, especially if problems aren’t addressed promptly. When left unattended, damage can spread to air vents and solar panels, increasing repair costs. Installing a roof access door makes it easier for workers to spot and fix small issues early on. This can prevent damage and help extend the roof’s life. By allowing regular inspections and timely repairs, roof access doors contribute to better maintenance and long-term savings.
A guide to choosing the right roof access door
Choosing the right roof access door is important because it directly impacts how well the roof stays in shape and how much money you can save over time. Here’s what to remember when choosing products:
1. Determine the purpose and frequency of use
Consider why you need roof access and how often you’ll use it. Understanding this helps you pick the right size, type, and features. It ensures that your choice aligns well with your requirements and your budget.
2. Consider material and durability
For roof access doors, durability is important as they face different weather conditions. Aluminium and steel are popular due to their toughness. When choosing, think about how well they resist rust and how long they’ll last.
3. Consider the size and configuration
The roof access door’s size should allow for safe and comfortable entry and exit. Consider the dimensions of the individuals using the door and any equipment that needs to be transported through it. If larger equipment is involved, you may need a product with a wider opening. This ensures that individuals and equipment can move in and out without difficulty or risk.
4. Look at the safety features
When selecting a roof access door, prioritise safety. Look for features like secure locking mechanisms. If the roof is frequently used, consider options with automated opening and closing mechanisms for added convenience and safety.
5. Know your budget
Roof access doors are available at various price points. Set a budget before exploring options to narrow the choices and ensure the selected door fits within your allocated budget.
Wrapping up
Roof access doors are important for safely reaching rooftops for maintenance, repairs, and inspections. Picking the right one keeps people safe and protects the building from damage. By choosing carefully, you can ensure the work environment is secure, and the building stays strong and safe for a long time. This also helps avoid costly repairs and ensures future maintenance runs smoothly.
As soon as the floodwaters subside in Southern California, many tenants will start the daunting task of assessing what’s been damaged or lost in their rental homes or apartments.
As of late Monday, authorities just in Los Angeles County responded to more than 300 mudslides, with 35 homes or buildings damaged by debris flows, including five that were deemed unsafe to enter.
If you were given evacuation orders, do not return to your home until the order has been lifted by the local authorities or the city.
Once you’re able to safely return to your rental and assess the damage, there are two things you should know.
First, damage to the rental property is not your responsibility, it’s the landlord’s. Getting your landlord to fix the damage, though, can be a challenge.
“Unfortunately, too much of this is a burden of the tenant to hold the landlord accountable,” said Larry Gross, executive director of the Coalition for Economic Survival.
Second, although a renters insurance policy can help under certain circumstances, it will not cover flood damage to your personal property.
Renters insurance reimburses you for damage to your belongings, including losses caused by some — but not all — natural disasters. The natural disasters that are not covered by rental insurance include floods, mudflows, sinkholes and earthquakes.
Janet Ruiz, communications director for the Insurance Information Institute, said flood damage is defined as losses caused by water that rises from the ground up. However, if water comes into your home from above — for example, when wind damages the roof or a window and rain cascades in — there is a possibility of coverage.
A water pipe that bursts and floods your dwelling is the other type of water damage that is covered by a renter’s policy, Ruiz said.
If your furniture, clothes, and computer are floating in a pool of floodwater in your living room, chances are good that you’ll have to pay out of pocket to replace them.
Your renters policy may still come in handy if you’re forced to move by the storms. Depending on the extent of the damage, a dwelling can be deemed uninhabitable. Your insurance might be able to cover the costs associated with temporary relocation; contact your insurance provider to find out.
Ruiz said most policies will pay for your additional living expenses when you are displaced from your home by a covered loss (such as damage caused by the wind) and need temporary shelter. Keep all your receipts to document your expenditures.
How to get your landlord to make repairs
Landlords have the responsibility to meet the habitability requirement for rental properties, meaning every rental unit must be maintained in a safe living condition. Part of the requirement is to provide “effective waterproofing and weather protection to the roof and exterior walls, including unbroken windows and doors.”
When a storm has damaged a rental — for example, high winds knock down a tree that lands and caves in a roof or rain has caused a roof leak — the landlord must fix it. State law also requires landlords to make sure their properties are free of dampness and visible mold.
Because of the legal requirements, it may be easy to get your landlord to fix flood damage right away. But most Californians don’t carry flood insurance, so the costs faced by your landlord could deter a speedy response.
Also, when a storm of this magnitude barrels through the state, contractors are usually overwhelmed with requests for repairs. A landlord who is trying in good faith to fix a rental might be stuck waiting until they can get a professional to do the work.
“Unfortunately,” Gross said, “there are too many [situations] where it’s not [repaired quickly] and of course it also depends on the severity of the situation.”
If a landlord doesn’t repair the damage in a reasonable time frame, a renter in the city of Los Angeles can file a complaint with the city’s housing department. This will prompt a visit by a code enforcement officer.
Landlords are also responsible when damage to the rental causes harm to the renter’s personal property. If your landlord won’t comply with your request for repairs, replacement or reimbursement, that can be a case for small claims court as well.
Gross doesn’t advise withholding your rent to try to get the landlord to fix damage to your rental, although you have that option. Doing so, Gross said, could lead the landlord to seek to evict you.
The Coalition for Economic Survival is one of several local organizations that can help renters understand their rights and advise them what can be done if a prickly landlord isn’t helpful. Here’s a list of some of the others.
Tenants Together is a statewide coalition of local tenant organizations, that offers resources and a directory to find an organization near you.
Basta, which has offices in Los Angeles and Long Beach, helps residents with habitability problems, among other services.
The Housing Rights Center serves Los Angeles County and has a housing rights hotline — 800-477-5977 — available from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Flood damage to cars, including flooding from a storm surge, is covered if you have “comprehensive coverage,” also known as “other than collision” coverage, as part of your auto insurance. Comprehensive coverage is optional with a standard auto policy.
Ruiz said most people who took out a car loan to buy their vehicle will have comprehensive coverage because loan companies require it.
Some people with older cars do not elect to have the coverage, however. That’s because, “at the end of the day, you only get the value of the vehicle,” she said.
What else can renters with flood damage do?
You might not be able to get reimbursed for your lost items at the moment, but you can deduct the amount you lost on your state and federal tax returns.
To help in the future, renters can apply for flood insurance to protect their personal belongings through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance program. For renters, the program covers up to $100,000 in damage to the contents of a unit.
The National Flood Insurance Program is available to anyone living in one of the 24,000 participating U.S. communities or in a flood-prone area. You can see whether your community is part of the program by checking the “community status report” on the program website.
If your community is in the program, you can obtain a flood policy from a participating insurer. The National Flood Insurance program offers a list on its website.
The policy won’t go into effect, however, until 30 days after it’s purchased.
You can also reach out to private insurers to see if they offer their own version of flood insurance. But there aren’t many that do, Ruiz said, so your best bet is to stick with the National Flood Insurance Program.
Staff writer Grace Toohey contributed to this report.
After a video of a Tesla Cybertruck sliding down a snowy embankment with a Christmas tree tied to its roof went viral on social media last week, the U.S. Forest Service saw a golden opportunity.
The agency could use the resulting internet imbroglio to educate people about the best practices for off-road vehicles on public lands.
In a move that Forest Service spokesman Benjamin Cossel allowed was “a little bit cheeky,” the Stanislaus National Forest issued a news release offering to partner with Tesla on “an education campaign regarding off-road vehicle use on public lands.”
“We are always thrilled when new opportunities to explore our public lands become available,” Stanislaus National Forest Supervisor Jason Kuiken said in the release. “But we feel there may be work to be done in educating users about our Motor Vehicle Use Maps.”
Tesla has, so far, not responded, officials said. A request for comment to Tesla from The Times was also not answered Sunday.
The partnership offer came after a Tesla Cybertruck apparently lost traction and slid — a Christmas tree still jauntily attached to the roof — down an embankment off a well-known Off Highway Vehicle area in the Calaveras Ranger District. The Cybertruck was eventually rescued by a Ford truck, officials said.
“We feel confident that had the driver of the Cybertruck had a better understanding of the topographical feature indicated on our maps, practiced Leave No Trace principles, and generally been more prepared, this whole incident could have been not only avoided, but also provided much-needed education to many new off-road users,” officials said in the release.
The first Cybertrucks hit the streets a few weeks ago after being mired by production delays and questions about its design. Elon Musk, Tesla’s chief executive, called it “the most unique thing on the road.” Musk said the truck has the handling and speed of a sports car, with a towing capacity of 11,000 pounds and a 340-mile estimated range.
“Finally, the future will look like the future,” he said.
Soon after Jude Francis moved into his new three-story Tustin townhouse in 2012, he attended an open house at his famous neighbor across the street: the city’s twin blimp hangars.
Seventeen stories tall, as wide as a football field and over 1,000 feet long, the wooden structures were built by the Navy in World War II to house dirigibles assigned to patrol the Pacific Coast. The Marines took over during the Korean War, storing military helicopters there until shutting down the facility in 1999.
By then, the hangars had become a beloved part of the Orange County landscape. For decades, they were the tallest buildings in the area, towering over a county that went from agriculture to suburbia to today’s metropolis of nearly 3.2 million people. The elegantly curved behemoths were visible by plane when landing at John Wayne Airport, from the 55 Freeway and for miles around.
They got the Hollywood treatment in films like “Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me” and the 2009 reboot of “Star Trek.” As surrounding neighborhoods developed, people got a better view of the fenced-off hangars, inspiring a new generation to fall in love with them and reigniting a question that city, county and military officials had long avoided:
What the hell would O.C. do with these white elephants?
Francis got a glimpse of the future when he and other residents attended the open house.
“They had a grand plan of how they were going to keep one and convert the other one into ice rinks and duck ponds,” said the tech consultant. “And I thought, ‘Oh, man, I’m going to live next to heaven.’”
We stood near his residence on a recent morning, looking onto a small version of hell.
Residents watch a stubborn fire burning the North Hangar at the former Marine Corps Air Station Tustin on Nov. 7. The structure was still smoldering a week later
(Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times)
On Nov. 7, the North Hangar caught fire. Firefighters tried to put out the flames before deciding the sheer size of the structure made the task too dangerous. So they let it burn.
The hangar’s roof had completely collapsed. The top edge of the wall that once held it up was jagged and blackened. Worse, the inferno had spewed toxic substances like asbestos and nickel. Tustin schools were planning for remote learning through the week; eight nearby city parks were closed indefinitely.
A squadron of men wearing half-face respirators and covered in flimsy personal protective equipment from head to foot vacuumed every crack of the parking lot at nearby Veterans Sports Park. A plume of black smoke puffed up from the hangar’s ruins.
“This is horrible,” Francis said, shaking his head. His roof and gutters had been clogged with ash and debris. “They should’ve done something to develop it. They did nothing.”
Next to us, Tom Hammer (“like the tool”) narrated videos that he was recording for his brother-in-law in Michigan. The retired fourth-grade teacher had driven up from San Clemente that morning with his black Chihuahua, Lola. His late father had served at the air station, as had his brother-in-law, who “was crying his eyes out,” Hammer said. “I was too busted up to come earlier. That’s my childhood there, burning up in flames.”
That was the first sentiment felt by many Orange County residents when news of the fire hit. The Tustin blimp hangars were our version of the Watts Towers: beloved architectural marvels of a bygone time that we drove past but rarely stopped to visit.
A week later, sadness had turned to anger.
Authorities still have no idea when the fire will die down, but demolition will be the next step. The hangar shouldn’t have suffered such an ignominious end.
It, along with its sibling, had stood empty for nearly 25 years, as local, county and Navy authorities dallied on what to do with them. Ever-changing plans were proposed to demolish both, keep one, or keep both, but money always got in the way. A section of the North Hangar’s roof collapsed in 2013, but Navy officials did little more than make sure it didn’t break any further. A 2017 Orange County grand jury urged action before the hangars decayed even more.
A disaster cleanup crew picks up potentially toxic debris from the still-burning WWII-era blimp hangar at the former Tustin Marine Corps Air Station in Tustin.
(Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)
Hammer brushed his foot on the lawn and kicked up white shards. “Light this with fire, and it burns like a lantern,” he said.
“I hate to say it, but it had become an eyesore,” he continued. Near the bottom of the smoldering North Hangar were long-abandoned, boarded-up barracks surrounded by dead, overgrown grass. A flimsy fence was all that kept the public away.
“I’m old and fat, and I could get over that fence,” he joked, before getting serious and gesturing at Francis.
“From my father to me to this gentleman, we’ve been saying ‘Do something.’ Either fish or cut bait. Either do something, about it or knock it down. People wanted to do something. But …”
He stopped to emphasize what he was about to say: “They never did anything with it.”
It’s usually about a minute-long drive from Veterans Sport Park down Valencia Avenue to the intersection of Kensington Park Drive, which offers the best place to see the other side of North Hangar. Street closures forced me to go through residential streets instead. People walked their dogs wearing masks and sunglasses while 18-wheelers followed by trucks flashing hazard lights rumbled past.
I parked in a nearby shopping plaza and made my way to the outdoor patio of a Sweetgreen, where Andirondack chairs sat empty. The downed hangar looked even worse from here.
The eastern wall was completely gone, revealing timber arches that reminded me of an exposed rib cage. The hangar’s huge door, which weighed over 100 tons, leaned off its steel rails and seemed a Santa Ana wind away from collapsing.
The obvious comparison would’ve been to a decomposed beached whale, or one of the destroyed alien spaceships from “Independence Day.” But my mind went to Percy Bysshe Shelly’s “Ozymandias,” the immortal poem about hubris told through the scene of a shattered statue.
Soon after the air station’s closure, Tustin officials allowed luxury neighborhoods with gag-inducing names like Levity at Tustin Legacy and Amalfi Apartments to spring up near the hangars. Meanwhile, the U.S. Navy sent letters to local homeowners associations two years ago warning that the groundwater under their homes might hold toxic chemicals from the military past.
The destroyed North Hangar represents the folly of Orange County, a place that romanticizes its past while letting it rot if there’s no profit to be made. Now, residents are suffering.
A disaster cleanup crew picks and vacuums up potentially toxic debris from the still-burning WWII-era blimp hangar at the former Tustin Marine Corps Air Station on Monday. Orange County Fire Authority personnel remained on the scene keeping watch on the blaze, with one firefighter telling KTLA-TV Channel 5’s Annie Rose Ramos that all they could do was let it burn out.
(Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)
The air began to sting my eyes and throat as Irvine resident Rebecca Flores and her son, Christian, took photos of the scene.
“This is a worst-case scenario,” she said. “No one knows what’s going to happen.”
“They’re not holding press conferences. They’re not doing much of anything,” said Christian, who works at a nearby retailer and said his colleagues were afraid to show up. “They’re just letting it burn.”
Before us, a row of workers with vacuums slowly walked down Valencia like crime scene investigators. Next to them was Legacy Magnet Academy, a middle and high school built in the style of the hangars. It was closed.
Rebecca kept brushing debris from Christian’s shoulders. We all wore facemasks. Hers bore a Stars and Stripes-style logo of The Punisher, a Marvel superhero popular among law enforcement supporters.
“I don’t like wearing masks,” Rebecca said, before offering a laugh. “But I’m wearing one for this.”
WETHERSFIELD, Conn., December 13, 2022 (Newswire.com)
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