With tornado season already active across Michigan — including the deadly storms that hit Southwest Michigan earlier this spring — the Michigan State Police is encouraging homeowners to consider adding a tornado safe room to their homes, with the possibility of getting much of the cost reimbursed.
The MSP Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division has opened applications for the Michigan Safe Room Rebate Program, which could reimburse eligible homeowners for up to 75% of the cost of installing a FEMA-compliant tornado safe room, up to a maximum of $7,131.75.
The program is aimed at permanent Michigan homeowners and could be especially attractive for do-it-yourself homeowners able to keep construction costs down while still meeting FEMA standards.
Applications are being accepted through June 15. Only 50 homeowners will initially be selected through a random drawing, with another 100 applicants placed on an alternate list if additional funding becomes available.
State officials say the rebate program is being proposed through FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities grant program. Funding has not yet been officially awarded, but the state is using the application process to support its grant request.
Capt. Kevin Sweeney of the MSP Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division said the recent wave of tornadoes across Michigan underscores the importance of safe shelter options.
“In a single night, nine tornadoes touched down across Michigan, just weeks after three others tore through southwest Michigan, causing widespread damage and claiming four lives,” Sweeney said. “A properly constructed tornado safe room can provide critical life-saving protection during severe weather events.”
The program works on a reimbursement basis, meaning homeowners must first be approved, then complete construction and submit documentation before receiving payment. Safe rooms built before approval will not qualify.
Applicants will be grouped by FEMA risk categories to help ensure geographic distribution around the state.
More information, eligibility details and the online application are available through the Michigan Safe Room Rebate Program website.
Emergency preparedness information is also available through MIReady.
