These are our estimates of typical installed price ranges, not quotes. Steel prices, size and site conditions all change the cost. Get a written quote before deciding.
Estimated price ranges
| Shelter type | Estimated typical installed range | Main price drivers |
|---|---|---|
| Above-ground steel safe room (garage) | $6,000 – $15,000+ | Size, door, slab upgrade if needed |
| Garage floor shelter (steel) | $3,500 – $8,000 | Capacity, opener, rock breaking |
| In-ground yard shelter | $4,000 – $10,000+ | Type, excavation, rock, drainage |
| Built-in safe room (new construction) | Varies widely | Design, engineering, materials |
| New reinforced slab or pad for a safe room | Varies | Size and site access |
Local cost factors
Limestone
Hitting rock is the biggest wildcard for garage floor and in-ground shelters in Rutherford County. Ask each installer how their quote handles it, and whether there's a cap.
Your slab
Above-ground safe rooms need concrete that meets FEMA anchoring criteria. If your garage slab isn't adequate, a new reinforced pad adds cost but is essential.
Size and options
Larger rooms, upgraded doors, electric openers (with manual backup), lighting, benches and finished interiors all add to the price.
Permits
Fees vary between Murfreesboro, Smyrna, La Vergne and unincorporated Rutherford County.
Rebates
Tennessee and some local governments have run FEMA-funded residential safe room rebate programs in the past. They open and close, usually require approval before installation, and generally require a FEMA P-361-compliant safe room. Check with Rutherford County Emergency Management or the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) before you buy.
Comparing quotes
- Is the exact model tested to ICC 500 and FEMA P-361 for tornadoes, with documentation?
- Does the price include excavation or slab work, concrete, permit and haul-off?
- How is rock handled and priced?
- What's the rated capacity?
- What warranties cover the shelter, door or lid, and installation?
Request a quote for your home.