The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) is now accepting applications for the Indiana Residential Safe Room Program, offering homeowners a significant rebate to install a prefabricated safe room. The application window is open from November 1 through November 30, 2025.
This state-run, FEMA-supported program provides a rebate of up to 75% of the installation cost, with a maximum reimbursement of $5,000.
This is a reimbursement program, meaning homeowners must pay the full, up-front cost for the safe room and its installation. They will then be reimbursed if they have been selected and have met all program requirements.
The program is not first-come, first-served. IDHS will randomly select 33 homeowners from the pool of eligible applicants after the application period closes. Those selected to receive the rebate will be required to attend a mandatory informational meeting to review the full details and regulations.
What Qualifies as a Safe Room?
To be eligible for the rebate, the structure must be a prefabricated, in-ground or above-ground safe room. These safe rooms must meet or exceed the specifications set forth in the most recent FEMA publications (FEMA P-320 and P-361).
These structures are designed to provide “near-absolute protection” from extreme weather, including tornadoes with wind speeds up to 250 mph.
Under the program rules, homeowners cannot design, build, or install the safe room themselves. The safe room must be a prefabricated shelter that is professionally installed. The structure can be placed within the home, in a garage, or as a detached unit within 100 feet of the home’s foundation.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
The rebate program is open to Indiana homeowners for their primary residence only. Key eligibility requirements include:
- The program is for single-family homes. Renters, duplexes, apartments, and other multi-family residences are not eligible.
- Owners of mobile or manufactured homes are eligible to apply only if they also own the land the home is on.
- The rebate cannot be used to repair or retrofit an existing storm shelter.
- Only one application per physical home address will be accepted.
How to Apply
Interested homeowners can find the official application and a complete list of eligibility rules, frequently asked questions, and program details on the IDHS website.
To apply and learn more, visit: on.in.gov/safe-room
Applications must be submitted by the end of the day on Saturday, November 30, 2025.
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