Storm shelters in Austin, TX

Planning a shelter in Austin

Austin straddles the Balcones Escarpment. West Austin and the Hill Country edge often sit on shallow limestone, which can make in-ground installs harder, while much of East Austin sits on clay soils. Many Austin homeowners look at in-garage and above-ground options for that reason.

Shelter options for Austin homes

• In-garage shelters: A steel or concrete unit installed in the garage, either set into the slab below the floor or bolted to the slab as an above-ground room. You reach it without stepping outside.
• In-ground (underground) shelters: A buried steel, fiberglass or concrete shelter in the yard or under a new slab, entered through a door or hatch at ground level.
• Above-ground safe rooms: A steel or reinforced concrete room anchored to a concrete slab, inside the home (a closet or interior room) or outdoors on its own pad.

Before you buy

• Check your flood zone on the FEMA Flood Map Service Center before considering an in-ground unit.
• Check your HOA rules, and ask the installer who handles the Austin building permit.
• Ask for test documentation for the model and door: ICC 500 and FEMA P-361.
• Compare prices against the typical cost ranges.
• See installers that serve Austin, or request a free quote.

How we work

Central Texas Storm Shelters is a referral service, not an installer. When you request a quote, we pass it to an independent installer who serves Austin. They confirm options and price after seeing your home. It is free for you, with no obligation.

Nearby areas

Round Rock · Pflugerville · Cedar Park · Kyle