The importance of modern building codes for resilience and safety

Severe weather isn’t slowing down—and neither are the costs. Between 2020 and 2024, the U.S. endured 115 billion‑dollar weather and climate disasters¹, totaling nearly $747 billion in damages.² Yet, 65% of U.S. communities still don’t have modern building codes, leaving homes and businesses vulnerable.³
See the latest survey results and key data you can use to advocate for stronger, more resilient communities:

Download Nationwide’s 2025 Building Codes Insights PDF

Why modern building codes matter now

The numbers above are telling and the increased frequency of extreme weather events poses significant challenges for property owners across the U.S. Additionally, population growth and development in high-risk areas, such as coastal regions and wildfire-prone zones, are driving up the likelihood of property losses. The potential for catastrophic events isn’t limited to hurricanes and wildfires, though: Tornadoes, high winds, winter storms, hail, earthquakes and flooding are risks throughout the country and our Nationwide research shows it’s a top concern for commercial property owners.

Commercial property stakeholders express deep concern about severe weather:⁴

• 73% nationally
• 94% in wildfire-risk states
• 88% in hurricane-risk states

More than 1/3 of commercial property stakeholders have recently experienced damage from a natural disaster:

• 32% nationally
• 54% in wildfire-risk states
• 63% in hurricane-risk state

Modern codes aren’t just regulations—they’re one of the most effective tools to protect property and save lives. Communities with stronger codes recover faster, and the results speak for themselves: in Alabama, homes built with roofs suffered little to no.⁵

Championing resilient communities

Nationwide is a proud founding member of the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), leading efforts to strengthen construction practices across the country. We support federal initiatives such as FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program and innovative offerings like our Better Roof Replacement® endorsement, helping families rebuild stronger after disaster.

How agents can use these insights

As an insurance agent, you’re on the front lines of risk education. This updated report provides credible data and proof points you can reference when talking with community leaders, stakeholders, and clients about the importance of adopting modern building codes. Sharing these facts reinforces your role as a trusted resource and advocate for resilience.