IDHS Residential Safe Room Program

How it works

The IDHS Residential Safe Room Program is a reimbursement rebate for installing a safe room in an Indiana residence. Homeowners pay the full cost up front, then submit required documentation after the work is completed to be reimbursed for part of the eligible costs. The program is funding-dependent and is offered through FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program, so IDHS must follow federal grant rules for each award.

What the money covers

The rebate is for the installation of a FEMA-compliant safe room at the homeowner’s residence. Eligible safe room types are prefabricated shelters that meet or exceed the most recent versions of FEMA Publication 320, FEMA 361, and ICC 500. The page says these shelters may be installed in above-ground or below-ground locations within the residence, including a garage, or outdoors within 100 feet of the home’s foundation.

Amounts and matching

Homeowners may be reimbursed for up to 75% of eligible costs, with a maximum rebate of $5,000.

How to apply

Applicants register during an application period. If more people register than can be awarded, IDHS uses a random selection process so everyone has an equal chance. Only one person may register per physical home address. If selected, homeowners must attend a mandatory informational meeting. After that meeting, they have 30 days to choose the type, size, and location of the safe room and submit that information to IDHS for FEMA review. Once the selections are submitted, they cannot be changed. If FEMA approves the project, IDHS sends a Notice to Proceed by certified mail. Homeowners cannot sign a contract or begin construction or installation until they receive that notice.

Timing and deadlines

The page states that applications for the Residential Safe Room Program have closed. It also says recipients are notified after each application period closes and the selection process is completed. The program is funding-dependent, and awards depend on FEMA grant funding.

After installation

Before work starts, homeowners must obtain any required local building and zoning permits, or provide a signed letter from the local jurisdiction saying no permit is required. After completion, homeowners must submit the signed Certificate of Installation, required permits and final inspection documentation if applicable, the contractor invoice and proof of full payment, latitude and longitude for the safe room location accurate to +/- 64 feet, and before-and-after photos showing the construction site and background scenery sufficient to verify the location on the property.