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 quick reference guide helps individuals and families prepare for an earthquake and prevent earthquake-related damage to their homes. The easy-to-read booklet features instructions on conducting earthquake drills and “hazard hunts.” Also included are a checklist of disaster supplies, tips on what to do during and after an earthquake, and additional resources.
This publication documents the work of a five-year project that that investigated, addressed technical issues and developed guidance which resulted in the submittal of 35 detailed proposed revisions to the official ASCE/SEI 41 consensus standard process of ASCE/SEI 41.
Building codes and standards are crucial to protecting homes in the event of a natural hazard. There have been numerous examples of homes or communities that were designed and built to the latest building codes that have not only survived a significant natural disaster but were able to continue their intended function, helping their community quickly recover and remain resilient. Some of these examples are detailed here.
The FEMA Building Codes Toolkit offers basic guidance and tools to help homeowners and occupants learn about building codes and how they can make a home more resilient against natural hazards.
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.
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.
FEMA aims to reduce the risk from natural hazards, and natural hazard-resistant building codes and standards are crucial to meeting this goal.