What is typical about the houses

Much of Willow Creek was built in the 1970s and 1980s, with two-story and split-level houses, attached garages and many finished basements. Lots are generous by suburban standards and large trees shade many yards, which is part of the neighborhood's appeal and part of what makes exterior fire repairs more involved.

Roofs in neighborhoods of this era were often originally wood shake. Many have since been replaced, frequently after hailstorms, but check what is on your roof and what the HOA allows before a fire-damaged section is replaced. A partial roof repair that does not match the rest can become a question for both the association and the insurer.

The age of these homes means interior materials may need testing before demolition: textured ceilings, older joint compound and sheet flooring in kitchens and baths. Remodeled houses can mix newer and older materials in the same room.

Willow Creek fire recovery at a glance

City
Centennial; confirm permits with the City of Centennial for your parcel
Fire service
Generally South Metro Fire Rescue; confirm for the incident report
Exterior changes
Likely need HOA architectural review; ask before ordering materials
Trees
Scorched trees near the house may need an arborist's opinion
Utilities
Gas and electric provider listed on your bill; call before restoring service

Planning a rebuild in an established HOA neighborhood

  • Get a copy of the HOA's architectural guidelines and submission process
  • Ask whether roofing material, siding color or window styles must match existing approvals
  • Find out the association's rules for dumpsters, storage pods and work hours
  • Tell neighbors when demolition and debris removal are scheduled
  • Have an arborist check heat-damaged trees before they drop limbs on the new roof
  • Ask the restorer to protect landscaping and irrigation from heavy equipment

Questions for your HOA and contractor

  1. How long does architectural review usually take, and can emergency repairs proceed first?
  2. Is there a list of previously approved roofing and siding products?
  3. Will the contractor submit the HOA application, or should I?
  4. Has the contractor rebuilt homes of this age, with the testing that can involve?
Map of Willow Creek. It shows an area, not an office or a job site.

Common questions

My roof is original wood shake. Can a burned section be patched?

Sometimes, but matching weathered shakes is difficult, and some HOAs and insurers handle partial roof replacement differently. Ask the HOA what roofing is currently approved and ask your adjuster how matching is handled under your policy.

Do mature trees near the house raise fire risk?

Trees overhanging the roof can drop dry debris into gutters and valleys. Keeping gutters clean and branches trimmed back from the roof and chimney is a sensible precaution in any established neighborhood.

General information for Centennial, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.