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Are Building Codes an Effective Adaptation to Wind Risk? Evidence from Remotely Detected Blue Tarps

Author

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  • David Wolf
  • Kenji Takeuchi

Abstract

Hurricanes cause significant wind and water damage, yet economic research primarily focuses on the latter due to data limitations. We overcome this problem by analyzing photographs taken after Hurricane Irma (2017 ) to locate blue-tarped homes. Using a regression discontinuity framework, we find the 2001 Florida Building Code impacted wind risk for over 500,000 homeowners. Adopters were 22 percent less likely to experience wind damage and saw a 27 percent reduction in damage severity. Unrepaired properties also sold for 13.3 percent ($29,400) less and were harder to sell, underscoring the importance of building codes in mitigating risk and promoting climate change adaptation.

Suggested Citation

  • David Wolf & Kenji Takeuchi, 2026. "Are Building Codes an Effective Adaptation to Wind Risk? Evidence from Remotely Detected Blue Tarps," American Economic Journal: Economic Policy, American Economic Association, vol. 18(3), pages 509-540, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:aea:aejpol:v:18:y:2026:i:3:p:509-40
    DOI: 10.1257/pol.20240544
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • Q54 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Climate; Natural Disasters and their Management; Global Warming
    • R31 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Real Estate Markets, Spatial Production Analysis, and Firm Location - - - Housing Supply and Markets
    • R38 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Real Estate Markets, Spatial Production Analysis, and Firm Location - - - Government Policy

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