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.

FEMA P-2196, Building Codes Adoption Playbook for Authorities Having Jurisdiction

The Playbook is intended for officials interested in increasing community resilience and reducing loss from natural hazards by adopting the latest editions of model building codes. The Playbook provides general steps to help navigate the code adoption process and informs about FEMA grants available to support building code adoption and enforcement activities.

Aug 4, 2022
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Applying for Building Code Administration and Enforcement Reimbursement through FEMA’s Public Assistance Program (DRRA 1206 Flyer)

Flyer outlining eligible building code activities that occur up to 180 days after a major disaster declaration can be reimbursed through Public Assistance.

Jul 1, 2022
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FEMA P-2181, Hurricane and Flood Mitigation Handbook for Public Facilities

The Hurricane and Flood Mitigation Handbook for Public Facilities presents an introduction and 30 fact sheets that provide technical guidance and recommendations for applying mitigation best practices.

Jul 19, 2022
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Timeline of FEMA Policies and Regulations Related to Building Codes and Standards

Mar 25, 2022
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Cleaning Flooded Buildings Fact Sheet, Hurricane Sandy Fact Sheet No. 1

This fact sheet helps building owners, operators, contractors, and volunteer assistance groups deal with the challenges of working in structures that were not thoroughly cleaned and dried shortly after the flooding.

Aug 30, 2022
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FEMA P-550, Recommended Residential Construction for Coastal Areas: Building on Strong and Safe Foundations

FEMA P-550 provides a series of recommended foundation designs that will help create safer and stronger buildings in coastal areas. The designs are intended to help support rebuilding efforts after coastal areas have been damaged by floods, high winds, or other natural hazards.

Nov 10, 2021
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FEMA 347, Above the Flood: Elevating Your Floodprone House

This publication describes how homeowners in Miami-Dade County elevated their damaged slab-on-grade masonry houses following the devastating effects of Hurricane Andrew.

Aug 9, 2022
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FEMA P-762, Local Officials Guide for Coastal Construction

This guide provides local building officials and floodplain managers with information about the design and construction of hazard-resistant residential structures within the coastal environment. The primary coastal hazards this guide will highlight are high winds and flooding.