Post-disaster housing and social considerations

Abstract

The increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters underscore the urgent need for effective post-disaster housing solutions that address both physical reconstruction and the social well-being of affected communities. This literature review examines the complex relationship between post-disaster housing and the factors influencing recovery. Through a semi-systematic literature review, five essential factors— namely time, location, local resources, safety, and quality—are identified as critical to social outcomes. The findings indicate that these factors influence social outcomes, demonstrating that both relief and resilience must be considered in housing delivery. Addressing economic, social, and environmental needs is essential to ensure community stability and adaptation. The review underscores the importance of integrating these factors into social assessment frameworks, enabling policymakers, architects, and humanitarian organizations to make informed decisions that enhance recovery efforts. A flexible design can be instrumental in addressing the psychological and physical challenges of affected populations and should be incorporated into organizational policies. Open-access literature bases were utilized to identify the initial social considerations in post-disaster housing solutions. Subsequent research should include the other types of publication (e.g., grey literature, subscription only) for a more holistic view of the topic. The insights gained can serve as a foundation for future research and the development of innovative, socially responsive housing solutions in disaster-prone regions.