Estimating Panic Room Costs

A panic room is a room that is constructed for security reasons. It is usually a room that is kept as a secret room that only the homeowners know about. When constructing a panic room, you should make sure that you have both the architect and the construction manager sign confidentiality agreements. On the blueprints of any panic room construction, it is usually noted as a mechanical or technical room, to keep as many people out of the knowledge regarding the room's real purpose and design. If you are looking to build a panic room from scratch or if you are considering converting an existing small room or walk-in closet, below you will find some of the costs associated with this project.

Converting an Existing Room

Depending on how extensive you want to make your conversion, the costs can run upwards of $50,000. Here are a few things associated with your conversion:

Reinforcements: If you are converting a closet, you will need to reinforce the room with at minimum, plywood. This minimal reinforcement can cost approximately $3,000 to $5,000.

Bullet Resistant Electronic Doors: Are you looking to put high-end electronic doors in your room? If so, a door that is bulletproof and electronic both can run you upwards of $20,000.

Back-Up Generator: For light and electricity uses, this component can start at $2,500

Dedicated Phone Line: Installing a phone line is important to keep communication with the outside world. A dedicated phone line can start around $1,500 just for the installation, not including ongoing maintenance and phone plan costs. A simple basic cellphone could be a more viable option as it doesn't have a service line that could be severed.

The Basic Requirements

Whether you are retrofitting your existing room or if you are starting from scratch, below are several basic requirements that are usually developed in any plan for a panic room.

Plumbing: Some panic rooms are designed to house multiple people for a period of time. Some panic rooms can hold people for weeks and even months. In order to have a semi-comfortable spot, you will need to account for plumbing fixtures such as toilets, showers, and faucets. Generally, the plumbing in a panic room is run separate from the main supply of the house and will cost anywhere between $8,000 and $25,000 to install, depending on the features and functions needed for the room

Supplies: Putting together a small cupboard of stocked non-perishable supplies is usually a must-have for any panic room. This along with water and snacks is generally a place where homeowners tend to overspend. Most homeowners average $1,500 for these types of expenditures.

Designing from Scratch

Designing a panic room from scratch can sometimes be the most cost-effective and affordable option for a homeowner. In addition to the above-mentioned items, a panic room that is designed from scratch will also include the services of an architect, a construction manager, and a security firm that will collaboratively develop the panic room to include all structural requirements and security features.