Top-rated shelter or outbuilding builders.

Get matched with top shelter or outbuilding builders in Vernon Hills, IL

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 3 pros

Matching on HomeAdvisor

Share some details icon
Share some details about your home project.
Match with local pros icon
Within moments, match with highly-rated local pros.
Compare quotes icon
Compare quotes and choose the best pro for the job.

Find Shelter or outbuilding builders in Vernon Hills

Avatar for Handyman Pros

Handyman Pros

Northwest Suburbs
4.76(
892
)
Approved Pro

Handyman Pros

Northwest Suburbs
4.76(
892
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 91% of Angi customers
Recommended by 91% of HomeAdvisor customers
1201 local quotes requested

ONE CALL CAN SOLVE ALL YOUR HOUSE PROBLEMS Professional Handyman Services, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Plumbing, Electrical, Carpentry, Tiling, Flooring Insured Bonded Guaranteed LIVE PHONE HELP Mon-Fri 8-5 email chat after hours... Chicago Home Repair License #2209943

"Excellent work and friendly service. Will use again."

Diane D on September 2025

ONE CALL CAN SOLVE ALL YOUR HOUSE PROBLEMS Professional Handyman Services, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Plumbing, Electrical, Carpentry, Tiling, Flooring Insured Bonded Guaranteed LIVE PHONE HELP Mon-Fri 8-5 email chat after hours... Chicago Home Repair License #2209943

"Excellent work and friendly service. Will use again."

Diane D on September 2025


TD Burrell D&S

21601 W Field Pkwy
4.38(
13
)
Approved Pro

TD Burrell D&S

21601 W Field Pkwy
4.38(
13
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Terrific value
162 local quotes requested
14 years of experience

Our mission is to be a provider that brings back the personal touch with our customers. We will build a relationship that will last a lifetime once you see our quality work. We're passionate about delivering an exceptional experience. When you hire us, you're hiring a team of professionals who are trained and skilled to deliver lasting value to your home. As a locally owned and operated business we feel invested in our clients and constantly strive for customer satisfaction. We won't leave until the job is done right! Call or click to schedule an estimate today!

"We engaged Tom Burrell of TD Burrel D&S for a deck renovation project that involved updating an aging wooden deck with TimberTech composite decking. From the outset, Tom demonstrated exceptional craftsmanship, creative spirit, and a deep understanding of the materials. We selected Tom due to his expertise and experience with TimberTech, his competitive pricing, and his flexibility with the project scope. We received quotes from three other deck companies, all of which were more expensive and less accommodating. Tom was thorough, detailed, flexible, patient, and kind. We recommend Tom and his work, however, a few considerations to keep in mind: 1. Our project was planned for 2023 but was ultimately delayed into 2024 due to unforeseen financial circumstances and impacts from other projects. Though unplanned and unfortunate, Tom maintained consistent communication with us throughout this period. 2. Tom operates mostly as a one-man team. While this is reflected in his lower overhead costs, it also means that the project pace will likely be slower compared to companies with larger teams. Our project was initially scheduled for a few weeks but ultimately took several months to complete due to necessary structural corrections, additions to the work order, intermittent issues with equipment and weather. 3. We recommend proactively asking about potential incremental costs for any changes in scope and stipulating that any updates be discussed and agreed upon in writing before implementation. For our specific project, corrections were necessary to the existing deck structure and additional items were discussed and added to the work. This resulted in the final project cost exceeding our initial budget expectation. While these changes were required and requested, discussions regarding the additional costs occurred late in the project. Keeping all parties aligned on scope and cost will help avoid any surprises and make finalizing the project easier. Despite these considerations, Tom is committed, easy to work with, and delivered a beautiful deck that our family will enjoy for many years to come."

Rebecca L on December 2024

Our mission is to be a provider that brings back the personal touch with our customers. We will build a relationship that will last a lifetime once you see our quality work. We're passionate about delivering an exceptional experience. When you hire us, you're hiring a team of professionals who are trained and skilled to deliver lasting value to your home. As a locally owned and operated business we feel invested in our clients and constantly strive for customer satisfaction. We won't leave until the job is done right! Call or click to schedule an estimate today!

"We engaged Tom Burrell of TD Burrel D&S for a deck renovation project that involved updating an aging wooden deck with TimberTech composite decking. From the outset, Tom demonstrated exceptional craftsmanship, creative spirit, and a deep understanding of the materials. We selected Tom due to his expertise and experience with TimberTech, his competitive pricing, and his flexibility with the project scope. We received quotes from three other deck companies, all of which were more expensive and less accommodating. Tom was thorough, detailed, flexible, patient, and kind. We recommend Tom and his work, however, a few considerations to keep in mind: 1. Our project was planned for 2023 but was ultimately delayed into 2024 due to unforeseen financial circumstances and impacts from other projects. Though unplanned and unfortunate, Tom maintained consistent communication with us throughout this period. 2. Tom operates mostly as a one-man team. While this is reflected in his lower overhead costs, it also means that the project pace will likely be slower compared to companies with larger teams. Our project was initially scheduled for a few weeks but ultimately took several months to complete due to necessary structural corrections, additions to the work order, intermittent issues with equipment and weather. 3. We recommend proactively asking about potential incremental costs for any changes in scope and stipulating that any updates be discussed and agreed upon in writing before implementation. For our specific project, corrections were necessary to the existing deck structure and additional items were discussed and added to the work. This resulted in the final project cost exceeding our initial budget expectation. While these changes were required and requested, discussions regarding the additional costs occurred late in the project. Keeping all parties aligned on scope and cost will help avoid any surprises and make finalizing the project easier. Despite these considerations, Tom is committed, easy to work with, and delivered a beautiful deck that our family will enjoy for many years to come."

Rebecca L on December 2024


Avatar for Artius Remodeling Inc.

Artius Remodeling Inc.

9041 Central Ave
5.00(
9
)
Approved Pro

Artius Remodeling Inc.

9041 Central Ave
5.00(
9
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
386 local quotes requested

I have over 7 years of bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, tile & stone Installation, fireplace stone installation, basement remodeling, wall/floor tile installation experience.

"Great and thoughtful work! The team worked hard to remove irregular slate flooring, level the floor and install new ceramic tile. Good communication, flexible and detailed."

Cathy T on February 2023

I have over 7 years of bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, tile & stone Installation, fireplace stone installation, basement remodeling, wall/floor tile installation experience.

"Great and thoughtful work! The team worked hard to remove irregular slate flooring, level the floor and install new ceramic tile. Good communication, flexible and detailed."

Cathy T on February 2023


Avatar for MPT Enterprises Inc

MPT Enterprises Inc

1713 N Aralia Dr
4.83(
175
)
Approved Pro

MPT Enterprises Inc

1713 N Aralia Dr
4.83(
175
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 94% of Angi customers
Recommended by 94% of HomeAdvisor customers
654 local quotes requested

We are construction company providing quality service to residential clients in Chicago and following counties: Cook, McHenry, Kane and DuPage. MPT Enterprises offers a wide range of construction and remodeling services to meet just about every customers needs. From the beginning to the finish of the project we are always committed to provide outstanding work and service. We use licensed subcontractors for plumbing and electrical work. See us at: www.MPTENTERPRISES.com

"Paul is fantastic to work with. I've worked with his company on several different projects over the past 5 years - kitchen remodel, front porch remodel, stairwell rebuild. His team is knowledgeable, responsive and good at what they do. Can't recommend him enough."

John I on October 2021

We are construction company providing quality service to residential clients in Chicago and following counties: Cook, McHenry, Kane and DuPage. MPT Enterprises offers a wide range of construction and remodeling services to meet just about every customers needs. From the beginning to the finish of the project we are always committed to provide outstanding work and service. We use licensed subcontractors for plumbing and electrical work. See us at: www.MPTENTERPRISES.com

"Paul is fantastic to work with. I've worked with his company on several different projects over the past 5 years - kitchen remodel, front porch remodel, stairwell rebuild. His team is knowledgeable, responsive and good at what they do. Can't recommend him enough."

John I on October 2021


Avatar for Ez Bath N Shower

Ez Bath N Shower

Illinois 60
5.00(
6
)
Approved Pro

Ez Bath N Shower

Illinois 60
5.00(
6
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
631 local quotes requested

Ez Bath N Shower is proud to provide full bath remodeling, tub shower replacements, and tub to shower conversions. We also offer kitchen remodeling and water softener/filtration systems. Our #1 goal is customer satisfaction. If you're looking for a company that provides the best products at affordable prices, then look no further than Ez Bath N Shower. Contact us today for a free design consultation!

"We had EZ Bath N Shower remove our tub unit and install a shower instead. We contacted a larger well-known company, but we went with EZ Bath. Their prices were comparable, but EZ Bath's material was better (thicker base, walls, and glass!) The gentlemen installing the unit were polite and professional. We are extremely happy with the results."

Joan C on January 2025

Ez Bath N Shower is proud to provide full bath remodeling, tub shower replacements, and tub to shower conversions. We also offer kitchen remodeling and water softener/filtration systems. Our #1 goal is customer satisfaction. If you're looking for a company that provides the best products at affordable prices, then look no further than Ez Bath N Shower. Contact us today for a free design consultation!

"We had EZ Bath N Shower remove our tub unit and install a shower instead. We contacted a larger well-known company, but we went with EZ Bath. Their prices were comparable, but EZ Bath's material was better (thicker base, walls, and glass!) The gentlemen installing the unit were polite and professional. We are extremely happy with the results."

Joan C on January 2025


Top Hat Services

New on HomeAdvisorNew on HomeAdvisor
Approved Pro

Top Hat Services

New on HomeAdvisorNew on HomeAdvisor
Approved Pro
1056 local quotes requested

Welcome to Top Hat Services, we look forward to discussing your home improvement project, please reach out to us anytime!

Welcome to Top Hat Services, we look forward to discussing your home improvement project, please reach out to us anytime!


Avatar for DTG Services, LLC

DTG Services, LLC

DTG Services, LLC
4.73(
122
)
Approved Pro

DTG Services, LLC

DTG Services, LLC
4.73(
122
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 90% of Angi customers
Recommended by 90% of HomeAdvisor customers
178 local quotes requested

Founded in 2007, DTG Services, LLC specializes in general contracting and complete demolition and remodeling of kitchens and bathrooms as well as flooring, painting, electrical, plumbing and other home improvement services. Located in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago, please call us for location and service details. DTG Services, LLC prides ourselves on outstanding quality in workmanship, group products and good customer service. Our mission is simple, provide the best possible service at the most competitive low price with outstanding attention to detail and efficiency.

"Well. Daniel is very knowledgeable and skilled at home restoration.His work is top notch! His assistant did a great job as well. They are both also very personable."

Leslie S on July 2025

Founded in 2007, DTG Services, LLC specializes in general contracting and complete demolition and remodeling of kitchens and bathrooms as well as flooring, painting, electrical, plumbing and other home improvement services. Located in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago, please call us for location and service details. DTG Services, LLC prides ourselves on outstanding quality in workmanship, group products and good customer service. Our mission is simple, provide the best possible service at the most competitive low price with outstanding attention to detail and efficiency.

"Well. Daniel is very knowledgeable and skilled at home restoration.His work is top notch! His assistant did a great job as well. They are both also very personable."

Leslie S on July 2025


Avatar for Envy Home Services, Inc.

Envy Home Services, Inc.

575 South Arthur Avenue
4.86(
109
)
Approved Pro

Envy Home Services, Inc.

575 South Arthur Avenue
4.86(
109
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 94% of Angi customers
Recommended by 94% of HomeAdvisor customers
304 local quotes requested

Welcome to Envy Home Services, Chicagoland’s trusted designer and installer of All Season Sunrooms, Three Season Sunrooms, Screen Rooms, Patio Covers, Pergolas, Awnings, and more. Homeowners come to Envy for their home improvement needs because they want their project to be completed on time, within budget and worry-free. Our mission starts with designing the right living space just for you. Then, with careful planning, our professional installation team gets to work. The transformation of an underused or unattractive space takes hold before your eyes, and you’ll see the new space just as you imagined. If you’re looking for a sunroom, room addition, Patio Cover or Pergola you’ll love the final product the Envy team will deliver for you. With a focus on personalized service, we’ll design the space and complete the final touches as if it’s our own home. A family-owned, local company, we’ll go the extra mile to earn your business.

"Working with Envy Home Services was smooth, professional, and enjoyable from start to finish. We had long dreamed of adding a sunroom for our growing family to relax, eat, play, and enjoy the sunlight—and they delivered beyond expectations. Communication was excellent! Every step was clearly explained, and we always felt informed. Whether by text, phone, or in-person, they were responsive, friendly, and professional. They truly listened to our ideas and concerns. Even with permitting delays from our village, Envy stayed on schedule and completed the project right on time. Pricing was fair and transparent. We received high-quality work at a reasonable price, with a flexible payment plan and financing. Most importantly, the finished sunroom is stunning! It blends seamlessly with our home and has become our favorite space. The craftsmanship and detail are top-notch. We couldn’t be happier and highly recommend Envy Home Services to anyone seeking a trustworthy, skilled contractor."

James Q on August 2025

Welcome to Envy Home Services, Chicagoland’s trusted designer and installer of All Season Sunrooms, Three Season Sunrooms, Screen Rooms, Patio Covers, Pergolas, Awnings, and more. Homeowners come to Envy for their home improvement needs because they want their project to be completed on time, within budget and worry-free. Our mission starts with designing the right living space just for you. Then, with careful planning, our professional installation team gets to work. The transformation of an underused or unattractive space takes hold before your eyes, and you’ll see the new space just as you imagined. If you’re looking for a sunroom, room addition, Patio Cover or Pergola you’ll love the final product the Envy team will deliver for you. With a focus on personalized service, we’ll design the space and complete the final touches as if it’s our own home. A family-owned, local company, we’ll go the extra mile to earn your business.

"Working with Envy Home Services was smooth, professional, and enjoyable from start to finish. We had long dreamed of adding a sunroom for our growing family to relax, eat, play, and enjoy the sunlight—and they delivered beyond expectations. Communication was excellent! Every step was clearly explained, and we always felt informed. Whether by text, phone, or in-person, they were responsive, friendly, and professional. They truly listened to our ideas and concerns. Even with permitting delays from our village, Envy stayed on schedule and completed the project right on time. Pricing was fair and transparent. We received high-quality work at a reasonable price, with a flexible payment plan and financing. Most importantly, the finished sunroom is stunning! It blends seamlessly with our home and has become our favorite space. The craftsmanship and detail are top-notch. We couldn’t be happier and highly recommend Envy Home Services to anyone seeking a trustworthy, skilled contractor."

James Q on August 2025


Avatar for Arce Construction, LLC

Arce Construction, LLC

72 W Lake St.
5.00(
5
)
Approved Pro

Arce Construction, LLC

72 W Lake St.
5.00(
5
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
1494 local quotes requested

ARCE Construction--We can build your DREAMS!! With 30+ years of service in the plumbing industry, we are excited to announce that we have expanded to provide professional construction services to our valued customers with renovations and restorations. We provide quality craftsmanship and outstanding customer service, which is our highest priority for every project entrusted to our construction team. We are focused on the details and understand your specific needs within your budget and offer a high level of value to each our our customers--this is what makes us different. Contact us today for your FREE in-home estimate

"Customer service was 10 of 10 very detailed and polite. The secretary was very helpful and very polite. I will definitely call again for any other issue in my home."

Jane G on December 2024

ARCE Construction--We can build your DREAMS!! With 30+ years of service in the plumbing industry, we are excited to announce that we have expanded to provide professional construction services to our valued customers with renovations and restorations. We provide quality craftsmanship and outstanding customer service, which is our highest priority for every project entrusted to our construction team. We are focused on the details and understand your specific needs within your budget and offer a high level of value to each our our customers--this is what makes us different. Contact us today for your FREE in-home estimate

"Customer service was 10 of 10 very detailed and polite. The secretary was very helpful and very polite. I will definitely call again for any other issue in my home."

Jane G on December 2024


Avatar for GARAGE FOR YOU INC

GARAGE FOR YOU INC

141 E ANITA AVE
4.60(
113
)
Approved Pro

GARAGE FOR YOU INC

141 E ANITA AVE
4.60(
113
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
272 local quotes requested
29 years of experience

Chicago garage builders, Garage 4U, Inc. has been building custom garages since 1990. As a family owned and operated small business, service and European craftsmanship allows us to give you - our customer - freedom to choose what you want. Every garage is custom built from first grade materials and we offer a variety of sizes and finishes. No job is too large, no dream is too big. Please call us today for a free estimate. Uses subcontractors for roofing.

"Garage was built well. Wasn’t happy with the concrete guys they used.(0 stars)Thought I’d have a patio poured as they did the slab for the garage to make it easier. They ended up sloping it towards the house. Water runs towards my house on rainy days and sits behind my basement foundation. Very noticeable by eye too. When I put a table or chair on it, the whole set sits crooked. I have to wedge it with a piece of wood to keep it level. I have cracks in several places as well after the first year which I know no one guarantees but thats besides the point. Called them to address the issue but never got a response to the problem. I’ve had to look at it everyday for the last 2 years and it frustrates me. Called them back, explained the situation again…. even suggested to redo it at cost….they said they would get back to me ….but no response…again. They tell you about how good they are but when you try to address it, they don’t do anything. I guess I’ll have to tear it out and it replaced by someone else. I don’t like leaving bad reviews but I gave them plenty of opportunities to make it right. It’s ashamed because I had a lot of people asking me for referrals. I even paid more that other quotes thinking they were different. I didn’t feel confident in recommending them. If anyone wants to see the work, please let me know. Hope it was worth it guys! UPDATE: 4/24 Bob proactively reached out to me and was unaware of the issues I had with the concrete. Internal communication issue? I don’t know. Apparently they've had issues with that concrete contractor and no longer use them. Garage4you said they want to make it right. Totally wasn't expecting that. Currently in the process of correcting the issue. I will update the review once completed. Just thought I'd let everyone know as you are gearing up for garage work soon. Maybe I was wrong and there are good ones out there. We shall see. UPDATE: 5/25 Well....a year has gone by and Issue has not been resolved. I reached out toward the end of summer thinking that they were busy and would do it in fall. Never happened. Obviously couldn't do it in winter. I told them let’s set it for early spring. I had to called in April to follow up. There has been no sense of urgency on their part. I keep getting the run around as if they didn't want to do it anymore. Not sure why this is so hard. You had a different contractor come out to validate that it wasn't done right. Then you put it in writing what needs to happen and it still hasn't. I even have all the texts archived. This is getting frustrating again but goes back to my original intuition. They are really good at telling you "how good they are" but when it comes to things like this, don't want to take responsibility; even though they acknowledged it. (which is worse in my opinion) Just wanted to get this done before I beautify my backyard as I know it will get torn up. I will give them one more week to schedule or tell me what is happening. If I don't hear back, I i'll most likely have to take it to the next step. Hopefully my next update is more promising. I've posted some pics so you can see what I am talking about. Pics don't do justice. 6/25/2025-Well. Now they are ignoring me. Guess I have to take it to the courts.............This is why contractors get a bad name! 9/25. Formal demand letter sent before it goes to courts"

Hema P on September 2025

Chicago garage builders, Garage 4U, Inc. has been building custom garages since 1990. As a family owned and operated small business, service and European craftsmanship allows us to give you - our customer - freedom to choose what you want. Every garage is custom built from first grade materials and we offer a variety of sizes and finishes. No job is too large, no dream is too big. Please call us today for a free estimate. Uses subcontractors for roofing.

"Garage was built well. Wasn’t happy with the concrete guys they used.(0 stars)Thought I’d have a patio poured as they did the slab for the garage to make it easier. They ended up sloping it towards the house. Water runs towards my house on rainy days and sits behind my basement foundation. Very noticeable by eye too. When I put a table or chair on it, the whole set sits crooked. I have to wedge it with a piece of wood to keep it level. I have cracks in several places as well after the first year which I know no one guarantees but thats besides the point. Called them to address the issue but never got a response to the problem. I’ve had to look at it everyday for the last 2 years and it frustrates me. Called them back, explained the situation again…. even suggested to redo it at cost….they said they would get back to me ….but no response…again. They tell you about how good they are but when you try to address it, they don’t do anything. I guess I’ll have to tear it out and it replaced by someone else. I don’t like leaving bad reviews but I gave them plenty of opportunities to make it right. It’s ashamed because I had a lot of people asking me for referrals. I even paid more that other quotes thinking they were different. I didn’t feel confident in recommending them. If anyone wants to see the work, please let me know. Hope it was worth it guys! UPDATE: 4/24 Bob proactively reached out to me and was unaware of the issues I had with the concrete. Internal communication issue? I don’t know. Apparently they've had issues with that concrete contractor and no longer use them. Garage4you said they want to make it right. Totally wasn't expecting that. Currently in the process of correcting the issue. I will update the review once completed. Just thought I'd let everyone know as you are gearing up for garage work soon. Maybe I was wrong and there are good ones out there. We shall see. UPDATE: 5/25 Well....a year has gone by and Issue has not been resolved. I reached out toward the end of summer thinking that they were busy and would do it in fall. Never happened. Obviously couldn't do it in winter. I told them let’s set it for early spring. I had to called in April to follow up. There has been no sense of urgency on their part. I keep getting the run around as if they didn't want to do it anymore. Not sure why this is so hard. You had a different contractor come out to validate that it wasn't done right. Then you put it in writing what needs to happen and it still hasn't. I even have all the texts archived. This is getting frustrating again but goes back to my original intuition. They are really good at telling you "how good they are" but when it comes to things like this, don't want to take responsibility; even though they acknowledged it. (which is worse in my opinion) Just wanted to get this done before I beautify my backyard as I know it will get torn up. I will give them one more week to schedule or tell me what is happening. If I don't hear back, I i'll most likely have to take it to the next step. Hopefully my next update is more promising. I've posted some pics so you can see what I am talking about. Pics don't do justice. 6/25/2025-Well. Now they are ignoring me. Guess I have to take it to the courts.............This is why contractors get a bad name! 9/25. Formal demand letter sent before it goes to courts"

Hema P on September 2025

...
Showing 1-10 of 949
FAQs for shelter or outbuilding building service projects in Vernon Hills, IL

A bomb shelter is an abode built to withstand disaster. Bomb shelters may refer to a space or bunker that can protect inhabitants through a hypothetical nuclear attack, apocalypse, or any other massive crisis. People usually build bomb shelters underground and stock them to live there a few days to a month at a time. Doomsday bunkers accommodate long-term living rather than just through a short crisis.

Builders construct bomb shelters with reinforced steel, box culvert, concrete, or other durable materials (but many professionals do not recommend shipping containers, as they’re not designed to live underground. If building underground, you’ll first have to excavate land before building the actual structure. You’ll have to implement air and water filtration systems, septic systems, and power supply.

It takes a lot of experience to safely and legally construct a bomb shelter, not to mention make sure it’s fit to live in for extended periods of time. It’s best to talk to a residential structural engineer near you for proper guidance.

The current standard filtration systems require filtering both air and water. For air, you’ll want an NBC filter system, which both domestic and international producers make. NBC stands for Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical, which filters out all three. If you’re only building your shelter for natural disasters, chemical attacks, and biological attacks, you may opt for the less expensive HEPA filter system. 

Water filtration requires the same level of care. You’ll likely want to have a large water storage capacity to survive short-term disasters. For long-term living, you’ll want to have a water filtration system.

Rising S bunker prices depend on the size, ranging anywhere from $20,000 to $9 million. Their least expensive model is 96 square feet while their most expensive model has a gym, swimming pool, hot tub, and bowling alley.

  • Mini: $45,500

  • Standard Bomb Shelter: $67,500–$109,500

  • Silver Leaf: $140,000–$182,500

  • Admiral: $180,000–$500,000

  • Xtreme: $450,000–$780,000

  • Xtreme Bunker Complex: $840,000–$1,830,000

  • Luxury Series: $3,800,000–$9,600,000

You almost always need a permit to build a bunker on land with any type of public utilities running through it. You’ll want to check with your local building code enforcement agency to see if this is the case for your area. 

Because you’re building a structural component that often requires electricity, water, and sewage services, you’ll need to apply for permits to attach these utilities to your new property. However, off-grid-only units in rural areas may not need all or any of the permitting you’d normally find in more urban settings.

To survive a nuclear blast, you’ll need to have your bunker at least three feet underground. However, it’s usually advisable to put it further underground. To survive a close strike, you’ll want to have the bunker at least 10 feet down and with five-foot thick reinforced concrete. However, knowing exactly how deep to build depends on the size of the blast you’re trying to avoid. Most bunkers don’t need to be more than 5 feet below the ground. 

The Vernon Hills, IL homeowners’ guide to shelter or outbuilding building services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

  • Open door to storm cellar

    HomeAdvisor’s Bomb Shelter and Bunker Cost Guide covers all the costs of a prefabricated doomsday bunker. Find costs and find professional bunker builders near you.

  • light blue shed in a backyard

    Building a shed or playhouse comes with costs for materials, labor, and design choices. Compare DIY vs. professional installation to find the best option for your budget.

  • wooden gazebo recently built in backyard garden

    Learn how to budget for a new gazebo by exploring how factors such as shape, size, materials, permits, and labor affect the total cost.