The current guidelines outlined in the current document, produced with substantial contributions from many National Societies, capitalize on the expertise developed within the Movement through a number of post-disaster reconstruction projects. More specifically, they have been created following the successful post-tsunami programme developed in Sri Lanka within a partnership framework, which resulted in community-oriented processes that served to design spatial forms, enable livelihoods and build social infrastructures. The guidelines are for field practitioners planning and implementing housing reconstruction programmes. This includes members of shelter recovery/reconstruction operations such as programme managers, shelter delegates and construction delegates. The guidelines are designed for the use of the IFRC and Red Cross Red Crescent Societies operating nationally or internationally, in the head and field branch offices.