Support for homeowners in fire-effected Los Angeles communities. Find out more

Frequently asked questions

Top Questions

When should we call Cosmic?

As early as possible, even before you buy land. We can help with site selection, zoning checks, site analysis, quick design, and cost estimates. This is especially helpful if you’re rebuilding after a disaster.

Is Cosmic an end-to-end service provider?

Yes. Cosmic offers a true white-glove, end-to-end experience - from concept design and permitting to fabrication, construction, and final delivery. We handle every step in-house to ensure speed, quality, and accountability throughout your entire project.

Why is Cosmic not charging for Concept Design for fire rebuilds?

As part of our Cosmic Foundation initiative, we’re giving away custom concept designs—at no cost—to families affected by wildfires. This is our way of contributing to the LA rebuild effort. As a Public Benefit Corporation, we’re committed to using our resources and expertise to support recovery. Similar design services typically cost tens of thousands with traditional architects.

Design & Customization

What is the level of customization you offer?

Cosmic offers fully customized design for every home. You can start with one of our existing models or design from scratch. Layouts, appliances, energy systems, and smart features can all be tailored to match your needs, lifestyle, and site conditions.

Do you build both ADUs and single-family homes?

Yes. We build a full range of residential projects—including detached ADUs and single-family homes. Our system is designed to scale from compact backyard units to high-end residences over 7,000 sq ft.

How do you ensure the design fits my lot and local zoning?

Cosmic uses advanced AI-driven tools to instantly extract local zoning codes and site constraints. Our system analyzes your lot’s size, slope, setbacks, and solar orientation, then adapts the design to fit all regulations. This allows us to deliver faster, code-compliant designs.

What does the concept package include?

The concept package includes site analysis, zoning review, layout options, 3D renderings, and a preliminary budget. It’s designed to validate feasibility and set the direction for permitting and engineering.

Process, Timeline, and Cost

When should we call Cosmic?

As early as possible, even before you buy land. We can help with site selection, zoning checks, site analysis, quick design, and cost estimates. This is especially helpful if you’re rebuilding after a disaster.

Is Cosmic an end-to-end service provider?

Yes. Cosmic offers a true white-glove, end-to-end experience - from concept design and permitting to fabrication, construction, and final delivery. We handle every step in-house to ensure speed, quality, and accountability throughout your entire project.

How long does it take to complete concept design?

We deliver the first 2D layout package within 2–3 weeks. After client feedback and layout approval, we move into 3D renderings, which typically take an additional 1–2 weeks.

Is getting Cosmic faster than building on-site?

Yes. Our AI-powered design-to-build platform and robotic microfactories reduce total project time by 30–50% compared to conventional methods. By digitizing every step, from permitting to panel fabrication, we eliminate delays and inefficiencies.

Do I need a building permit, and how does Cosmic help with that?

Yes. Every home requires local permits. We manage the full permitting process for you, from zoning research and code compliance to submission and approval.

Is Cosmic licensed to build in California?

Yes. Cosmic is a licensed General Contractor in California. We manage design, permitting, and construction with our own team, no third-party GC needed.

How long does it take to install a Cosmic home?

Most projects take 3–5 months after the foundation is complete. This includes full assembly, interior finishes, systems installation, and final inspections. It covers everything needed for move-in.

Do you offer help with financing or construction loans?

We don’t offer in-house financing, but we work with lender partners who understand our building process and can offer competitive loan products for construction.

Can you work with HOAs or navigate tricky local zoning rules?

Yes. We review HOA restrictions and use AI-powered zoning tools to decode complex regulations. Our team has experience navigating tough permitting environments across California.

What factors might delay or increase the cost of permitting or site prep?

Sloped or hard-to-access lots, extensive utility upgrades, or slow city response times can impact cost and timeline. We flag these early during site analysis.

What’s included in the base cost?

Full design, permitting, construction, appliances, solar system, and finishes. Excludes site-specific extras such as demolition or landscaping.

Do I have to pay the full cost upfront?

No. We break payments into milestones aligned with project progress. Financing is available.

Cosmic Building System

Is your system modular or panelized?

Cosmic uses a panelized building system. We fabricate wall, floor, and roof panels on-site in our mobile robotic microfactories, then assemble them quickly. This method offers more flexibility than modular construction, allows for easier transport, and adapts better to unique site conditions.

What does the Cosmic Microfactory fabricate?

Our mobile microfactory fabricates precision-cut wall, floor, and roof panels. These components are delivered flat-packed or fabricated on-site, then assembled into a complete home shell in just 2–3 days.

Sustainability

Do you offer water-saving solutions?

Yes. We offer greywater recycling systems that reduce water use by up to 40%, along with water-recycling showers. Recycled water can be reused for irrigation or other non-potable uses.

What kind of filtration is included for water systems?

Our water systems include sediment filters, activated carbon filters, and UV sterilization where needed. This ensures clean, safe water for both recycled greywater and any off-grid or captured sources.

Do Cosmic homes achieve net-zero energy?

Yes. Every Cosmic home is designed to produce as much energy as it consumes over the course of a year. We include solar panels, battery storage, and high-efficiency systems as standard. This makes our homes fully electric and carbon-neutral in operation.

What kind of materials do you use? Are they low-emission?

We use sustainable, low-emission materials across the board. This includes VOC-free paints and finishes, FSC-certified wood, formaldehyde-free insulation, and high-performance windows.

Fire Resistance

What makes Cosmic homes fire-resistant?

Cosmic homes are built with non-combustible, Class A-rated materials; including fiber cement siding, metal roofing, tempered glass windows, and ignition-resistant detailing. These features help protect against embers, radiant heat, and direct flame exposure.

Do you meet Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) requirements?

Yes. All of our homes meet or exceed WUI standards required in California’s high fire-risk areas. We design specifically for resilience in wildfire zones and comply with the latest fire safety codes.

LA Fire Rebuild

Do Cosmic homes meet LA’s new fire codes?

Yes. All Cosmic homes meet or exceed LA’s Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) requirements. We use non-combustible, Class A-rated materials like fiber cement siding, metal roofing, and tempered windows for maximum fire resistance.

Why is Cosmic not charging for Concept Design for fire rebuilds?

As part of our Cosmic Foundation initiative, we’re giving away custom concept designs, at no cost, to families affected by wildfires. This is our way of contributing to the LA rebuild effort. As a Public Benefit Corporation, we’re committed to using our resources and expertise to support recovery. Similar design services typically cost tens of thousands with traditional architects.

What support do you offer with insurance claims?

Cosmic provides a custom recovery strategy and, through our partnership with Bright Harbor, offers support navigating insurance claims, SBA loans, mitigation, and anything else needed to help you rebuild with confidence.

Can you qualify for Like-for-Like rebuild in LA?

Yes. Our panelized system qualifies for LA’s Like-for-Like rebuild program. We can match your original home’s square footage and layout, and we comply with the 110% rule while upgrading to today’s fire, energy, and structural codes. This enables faster permitting and a quicker path to rebuilding.