Defensible Designs LLC Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Defensible Designs?
A: We’re a local consulting and project management business based in Orinda. We help homeowners and businesses reduce wildfire risk by planning and coordinating defensible space work, Zone 0 compliance, and home-hardening upgrades. Think of us as your wildfire-safety project guide — we connect you with the right vendors and help keep projects moving.

Q: Why should I harden my home or business now?
A: Wildfire risk in Contra Costa County is increasing, and local ordinances (MOFD, Berkeley EMBER, and upcoming state requirements) are becoming stricter. Taking steps now makes your property safer, helps with compliance, and may improve insurability.

Q: What exactly do you do?
A: We:

• Assess your property for wildfire vulnerabilities.

• Provide a custom plan that prioritizes safety and compliance.

• Connect you with vetted contractors (fencing, roofing, arborists, etc.).

• Help coordinate timelines, budgets, and paperwork.

• Keep you updated so you know where things stand.

Q: Do you work with businesses as well as homes?
A: Yes. Businesses face many of the same wildfire risks as homeowners. We design defensible space and hardening strategies that reduce liability, protect assets, and meet local requirements.

Q: Do you take on the actual work, or just coordinate?
A: We focus on planning and coordination. Licensed contractors do the physical work, and we help you manage the process so it’s easier and less stressful.

Q: How do I get started?
A: Schedule a free intro call through our website. 

We’ll review your property, talk through your goals, and outline next steps.

Q: How much does it cost?
A: Pricing depends on property size and project scope. A basic site visit and plan typically starts at $300, while larger projects vary depending on the level of coordination needed. We’re transparent about costs and will always provide options.

Q: How long does the process take?
A: It depends on your goals, budget, and schedule. An assessment and plan can usually be delivered in a couple of weeks. Larger projects that involve contractors or phased work may take longer — often unfolding over a season or more. We’ll tailor the pace to your needs and help keep things on track.

Q: I had my Moraga Orinda Fire District (MOFD) inspection and received a letter with required changes. Can you help?
A: Yes. Bring us your inspection letter, and we’ll:

• Review the items flagged by the inspector.

• Help prioritize what to do first.

• Recommend trusted vendors.

• Support you in getting the work completed before your reinspection.

Q: Will your plan help me pass local fire inspections?
A: Our plans are built around current MOFD guidelines and state requirements. While we don’t control the final inspection outcome, we design recommendations that align with compliance standards and best practices.

Q: Can this lower my insurance premiums?
A: Every insurer is different, but many now ask about defensible space and home-hardening measures. Taking action often helps with insurability and, in some cases, may reduce premiums.

Q: What is the Pay it Forward Community Fund?
A: A portion of every project goes into our Pay it Forward Community Fund, which helps fixed-income neighbors pay for wildfire safety improvements. By working with us, you’re helping strengthen the whole community.

Q: What is the “Pay It Forward” (PIF) volunteering program?
A: In addition to financial support, we organize volunteer opportunities where neighbors can help each other with simple wildfire-safety tasks — like moving flammables, clearing debris, or planting fire-resistant landscaping.

Q: How do I sign up to volunteer?
A: Fill out the volunteer interest form and let us know your skills or availability. We coordinate projects a few times a year and match volunteers to opportunities.

Q: Can kids or families participate?
A: Yes, supervised kids and families are welcome. We often have safe, simple tasks where everyone can contribute.

Q: What areas do you serve?
A: Primarily Orinda, Moraga, and greater Contra Costa County. If you’re nearby, ask us — we may be able to help.

Q: How long does the process take?
A: It depends on your goals, budget, and schedule. Some clients just want an assessment and action plan — which we can usually deliver within a couple of weeks. Larger projects that involve multiple contractors or phased work may take longer, often unfolding over a season or more. We’ll tailor the pace to your needs and keep things moving as smoothly as possible.

Q: Do you work only during fire season?
A: No. Planning and upgrades can be done year-round, and in fact, some work is best timed outside of fire season. For example, tree work is often ideal in the fall, after bird nesting season, when crews have better availability and conditions are safer for both workers and wildlife.

Q: Do you offer ongoing support?
A: Yes. Many clients choose annual or seasonal check-ins where we re-inspect, update your plan, and recommend adjustments based on new regulations. Our role is to guide and support you; implementation always happens at the pace that works for you.