FEMA doesn't use specific construction divisions to estimate building damages. Instead, they  employ a more comprehensive approach that considers various aspects of a building's repair or replacement. Here's a breakdown of how FEMA approaches building damage estimates:

Focus on Repair Scope:

• FEMA's primary concern is  determining the repairs necessary to bring a damaged facility back to its pre-disaster condition (function and capacity).
• This involves assessing the extent of damage to various building elements like:
  • Foundation
  • Structural frame
  • Exterior walls (including roof and cladding)
  • Interior walls and finishes
  • Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems
  • Life safety systems (fire suppression, sprinklers, etc.)

Cost Estimating Methodology:

• FEMA utilizes the  Cost Estimating Format (CEF) for large construction projects (meeting a specific cost threshold).
• The CEF breaks down project costs into eight categories encompassing various aspects of repair or replacement,  not limited to specific construction divisions.  (Refer to previous response on FEMA PA Cost Estimating Format for details).

Expertise of Specialists:

• FEMA might involve specialists from various disciplines (structural engineers, architects, inspectors)  to assess damage and determine the scope of repairs needed for different building elements.
• However, the final cost estimate considers the overall project scope, not individual construction divisions.

Additional Considerations:

• FEMA might utilize pre-disaster construction documents or industry standards to establish pre-disaster conditions for comparison.
• Local construction costs (labor, materials)  are factored into the cost estimate.

Alternatives for Smaller Projects:

• For smaller projects, FEMA might use  pre-determined unit costs  for repairs to specific building elements.
• This simplifies the process but may not be as detailed as the CEF for larger projects.

Resources for More Information:

• FEMA Public Assistance Policy Guide (PAPPG): Chapter 3: Cost Eligibility, Section III Cost Estimating ([invalid URL removed])
  • This section offers a more detailed explanation of FEMA's cost estimating procedures.

Remember: FEMA regulations can be intricate. Consulting directly with FEMA  is always recommended to get the most up-to-date information on how they estimate building damages for your specific situation.

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