When disaster strikes, housing providers don’t just manage buildings; they protect lives, maintain essential services, and help communities recover. Whether the emergency is a fire, flood, gas leak, or hurricane, having a clear, actionable plan in place is critical.
This guide is designed to help affordable housing organizations create and maintain a strong disaster plan. One that supports residents, protects property, and keeps operations running in a crisis.
How to assess risk based on your property’s location, infrastructure, and population
Steps to build an effective disaster response team
Resident communication strategies for emergencies
What to include in a Business Continuity Plan (BCP)
Post-disaster protocols, including temporary housing and claims
How to keep your disaster plan updated and effective year-round
Disasters can unfold with little to no warning. Without a clear plan, even well-trained teams can struggle to coordinate a response—putting residents, property, and your organization’s reputation at risk.
Affordable housing communities face unique challenges, including high resident density, accessibility needs, and aging infrastructure. A strong disaster plan helps close those gaps. It keeps your team organized, your residents informed, and your property protected, no matter what comes your way.
Be sure to explore the full range of resources we’ve curated on our Resource Center, designed to help you stay informed, prepared, and resilient, ready to handle anything that comes your way confidently.
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This article is for general information only. HAI Group® makes no representation or warranty about the accuracy or applicability of this information for any particular use or circumstance. Your use of this information is at your own discretion and risk. HAI Group® and any author or contributor identified herein assume no responsibility for your use of this information. You should consult with your attorney or subject matter advisor before adopting any risk management strategy or policy.
HAI Group® is a marketing name used to refer to insurers, a producer, and related service providers affiliated through a common mission, management, and governance. Property-casualty insurance and related services are written or provided by Housing Authority Property Insurance, A Mutual Company; Housing Enterprise Insurance Company, Inc.; Housing Specialty Insurance Company, Inc.; Housing Investment Group, Inc.; and Housing Insurance Services (DBA Housing Insurance Agency Services in NY and MI).