Building Science Resource Library
The Building Science Resource Library contains all of FEMA’s hazard-specific guidance that focuses on creating hazard-resistant communities.
You can search for a document by its title, or filter the collection to browse by:
- Topic: High winds, flood, earthquake, etc.
- Document Type: Brochure, report, fact sheet, infographic, etc.
- Audience: Building professionals & engineers, individuals & homeowners, teachers & kids, etc.
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This Recovery Advisory provides important recommendations to reduce water intrusion through and around windows and doors due to wind-driven rain during extreme wind events.
This document is an overview of the 2023 edition of FEMA P-804, Wind Retrofit Guide for Residential Buildings in Hurricane-Prone Regions.
Developed in response to Hurricane Ida in Louisiana, this guidance compares the two predominant construction foundation systems available in South Louisiana and provides greater detail regarding their costs, impacts, and advantages.
This fact sheet summarizes the recommendations from technical reports FEMA prepared after Hurricane Ida. Communities use different mechanisms to put recommendations into practice.
This fact sheet describes how flood warning systems and mapping can provide situational awareness for key questions before and during flood events. It also highlights the benefits of flood forecasting and warning in reducing physical damage and losses.
This study reviews the implementation of the Disaster Recovery Reform Act (DRRA) Section 1206 Policy implemented after Hurricane Ida in Louisiana (DR-4611) and shares the lessons learned for future state, local, tribal, and territorial governments looking to implement this type of project.
This document equips property owners with a template that they can use to understand the basic planning elements of a construction project. It includes items that local building departments and design professionals usually require.
The insurance industry plays a vital role in supporting building codes so that homeowners and occupants are better protected against and prepared for natural hazards. This section explains what insurance options are available and how purchasing insurance helps protect both renters and homeowners.
This document helps homeowners with hiring credible contractors who will construct using the codes and standards enforced in the home’s area.
This document equips and helps homeowners understand the general process for acquiring a building permit before starting any new construction, addition, repair, renovation, rebuilding, or mitigation work. It should not be used as a substitute for checking with your local building department or for understanding the building codes and regulations in your community.