Local homeowners can now apply for a state program that helps pay for the installation of a tornado safe room.
The Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division announced the rebate program following a series of destructive storms. More than a dozen tornadoes have touched down across Michigan in recent weeks, causing widespread damage and killing four people.
Captain Kevin Sweeney is the Deputy State Director of Emergency Management.
He said, “A properly constructed tornado safe room can provide critical life-saving protection during severe weather events.”
The program offers to cover up to 75% of the costs to build or install a safe room that meets federal standards, with a maximum payout of just over $7,000.
The rebate is reimbursement-based, meaning homeowners must pay for the project upfront and submit proof of completion to get their money back. Any safe rooms built before getting program approval will not qualify for the funding.
The program will use a random drawing to select 50 winners and 100 alternates. To qualify, applicants must live in Michigan and own the property.
Winners will also be grouped by regional weather risks to make sure the money is spread evenly across the state.
The application deadline is June 15th. Homeowners can visit michigan.gov/msp or search Michigan Safe Room Rebate Program to find an application.