We explore the challenges and solutions for homeowners facing the devastating aftermath of wildfire damage in the Los Angeles area. As 2025 begins with severe fires sweeping through communities, we break down the entire fire damage restoration process, from the first site inspection to the final stages of rebuilding.

Listeners will learn the critical first steps after a property is declared safe, including how to document what remains, retrieve old permits and property records, and work with as-built professionals when original plans are missing. We discuss the benefits of rebuilding the same home, such as streamlined permit procedures, cost savings through existing plans, and the potential reuse of structural elements like foundations and wall framing.

The episode also covers alternative approaches, including selecting new designs from pre-approved building department catalogs, and outlines how recent policy changes have simplified the rebuilding process in affected cities.

Through a case study, we share how our team collaborated with an architect to meticulously scan a damaged site, align data with land surveys, and recreate a fully detailed 3D model using archived plans. From structural details to original paint colors, every element was restored to guide the construction team toward an exact replica of the lost home.

For more information, visit https://alterpex.com/blog/wildfire-damage-house-restoration

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) — a groundbreaking technology revolutionizing everything from autonomous vehicles to construction, robotics, and healthcare. We explore how SLAM allows mobile systems to map and navigate environments in real time using a combination of sensors like LiDAR, cameras, radar, and inertial measurement units.

You’ll discover how SLAM is already a part of your daily life — powering robotic vacuums, self-driving cars, and drones — and how it's rapidly reshaping industries. We break down how SLAM contributes to high-precision 3D mapping, improves autonomous navigation, enhances robotics automation, and facilitates digital twins and BIM integration in architecture and construction.

We'll also explore:

The role of LiDAR SLAM in creating high-resolution point clouds.

How SLAM is enabling real-time 3D mapping in GPS-denied environments like underground tunnels and indoor spaces.

For more information, visit https://alterpex.com/blog/slam

Building Information Modeling

We discuss the complexities, benefits, use cases, and overall impact that this technology brings to the construction field.

For more information visit https://alterpex.com/.

In this episode, we break down the ADU Amnesty Program in California—what it is, why it matters, and how homeowners can benefit. Many homeowners across the state have built accessory dwelling units (ADUs)—like backyard cottages or garage conversions—without the proper permits, often due to the complexity and cost of the permitting process. This podcast explains how California’s ADU Amnesty Program offers a unique chance to legalize those units without facing penalties.

We explore how this program helps property owners bring their unpermitted ADUs up to current building and safety codes, avoid legal and insurance issues, and even boost their property values. You'll learn how planning code amnesty works, which violations might be waived, and the steps you need to take—from researching local requirements to submitting an as-built drawing and obtaining final permits.

Whether you're a homeowner, property investor, or someone curious about California’s evolving housing policies, this episode gives you practical insights and actionable advice.

For more information, visit https://alterpex.com/blog/adu-amnesty-program

Understanding the Cost of As-Built Drawings: Factors that Impact Pricing

We break down the key factors that influence the cost of as-built drawings—project size, complexity, timelines, and more.

For more information visit https://alterpex.com/.

What Are As-Built Drawings?

In this episode, we explore the critical role of As-Built Drawings in construction and architecture. These detailed plans document every change made to a building throughout the construction process, serving as an essential tool for contractors, engineers, architects, and property owners.

We discuss how As-Built Drawings help prevent costly mistakes, improve project management, and ensure compliance with building regulations.

Additionally, we break down the differences between As-Built Drawings and Record Drawings, highlighting their respective roles in construction documentation. Plus, we touch on the cost of As-Built services and why investing in them can save significant time and money in the long run.

For more information visit

https://alterpex.com/blog/as-built-drawings

In this episode, we explore the world of point clouds — 3D data that is changing industries like construction, architecture, manufacturing, surveying, and archaeology. We begin by explaining what point clouds are and how they serve as detailed collections of data points that capture the shape and surface of real-world objects and environments.

We explore the different methods used to create point clouds, including laser scanning, LiDAR, photogrammetry, and the growing role of drones in data collection. You'll learn how these technologies differ, when to use each one, and how they impact the precision and usability of the data.

We also cover the many applications for point cloud technology: from creating accurate architectural models and mapping terrains, to assisting urban development and preserving historic sites.

You'll get valuable insights into data storage formats (like RCP, LAZ, PLY, XYZ) and factors that influence the time required to create point clouds — including project size, environment complexity, scanning technology, and software efficiency.

If you’ve ever been curious about how digital 3D environments are created from real-world spaces — or if you work in industries where precision mapping and modeling are crucial — this episode is packed with practical knowledge.

For more information, visit https://alterpex.com/blog/what-are-point-clouds