ADMINISTRATIVE INSTRUCTIONS
PURPOSE: Provide reimbursement for cost associated with safe rooms or in-ground shelter installation in the amount of $1,000 or 50% whichever is less.
a. Eligibility: Individuals who own their home at the time of application and who have installed a saferoom/underground shelter after 21 January 1999.
This must be in your primary residence at the time you apply for the rebate. (Please Note: Rental or lease properties are not eligible for rebates). Each eligible homeowner can only receive one rebate, regardless of the number of shelters he/she may purchase in the future.
b. Requirements: The safe room must meet requirements established in FEMA publication #320 and/or meet the National Performance Criteria for Tornado Shelters dated May 28, 1999. The safe room must have been installed after January 21, 1999.
c. In-ground shelters have no state regulations however this office will require that it be constructed of a waterproof material and be properly ventilated. The shelters must meet city or county codes if there are any.
d. Documentation:
1) Homeowner must fill out the top portion of ADEM Form 320 and turn in to the local official (County Coordinator/Judge) with a picture and Notarized cost documentation (invoices or canceled checks) and mail to:
Department of Emergency Management
105 N. Mill Ave.
Fayetteville, AR 72701
2) Local official (County Judge, Mayor, and ES Coordinator, Building Inspector) will certify on the bottom portion of ADEM form 320 that the installation meets requirements stated in (b.) and (c.) above and mail to the State.
Safe Room Questions and Answers
Q. What is a Safe Room?
A. It is a reinforced room (concrete, stainless steel, kevlar, etc.) built in a new or existing above ground structure that can provide great protection during storms. The FEMA Publication 320 contains recommended construction plans. To get this booklet call 1-888-565-3896 or visit the FEMA web site.
Q. Are underground shelters eligible for the rebate?
A. Yes, if they were installed after 21, January 1999 by individual homeowners.
Q. I am not planning to build a shelter until next year. Will I still be eligible?
A. Yes, as long as the money is still available.
Q. How many shelters will be funded this year?
A. We have $1,250,000 and when it is exhausted we can not fund any more until the following July.
Q. Can I build a shelter for my apartment complex. Do I get the rebate for each apartment?
A. No, for the purpose of this initiative, only individual homeowners are eligible.
Q. I built my shelter in January 1998. Do I qualify?
A. No, only those shelters installed after January 21, 1999 are eligible for the rebate.
Q. I own two or more homes. One home I live in, the other home I rent. Can I get a rebate for each home I own?
A. No, this initiative is only available for primary residences and you can get no more that one rebate.
Q. What are the in-ground shelter specifications?
A. There is no state code or regulations, however you should check with your city or county officials for their requirements.
Q. If I build a shelter, am I guaranteed the rebate?
A. No. If the Arkansas Legislature withdraws funding from the program the rebate could not be made.
Q. Why do I have to put my Social Security number on the application?
A. Due to the states new ASSIS (Administrative Statewide Information System), we now require Social Security numbers in order to process reimbursement checks.
Q. If I receive a grant, is it taxable?
A. It may be taxable. You should check with your tax person or CPA or Call the IRS helpline. Phone number: 1-800-829-1040.