Natural Hazard Mitigation Saves Study Results

This study quantifies the benefits and cost-effectiveness of exceeding select provisions in the 2015 International Building Code (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), and International Wildland-Urban Interface Code (IWUIC) for new construction. It presents national benefit-cost ratios for mitigation measures addressing riverine flooding, hurricane surge, wind, earthquake, and wildland-urban interface fire, showing significant reductions in deaths, injuries, property damage, and economic losses. The report details specific mitigation strategies such as elevating buildings, adding hurricane shutters, strengthening structures, and using fire-resistant materials. The findings support investment in mitigation programs for a range of building types and occupancies.