Storm shelters, sometimes called safe rooms, though not required by the code, offer added protection from the destructive forces of high winds, hurricanes, and tornadoes. The design and construction of storm shelters, either as detached structures or safe rooms within a dwelling, must conform to the requirements of ICC/NSSA-500, Standard on the Design and Construction of Storm Shelters.

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The Building Code Basics series based on the 2009 International Building, Residential and Fire Codes explains requirements using non-code language to help you understand the material or explain it to others. Technically accurate and easy to understand, these are the perfect resources for builders, owners, students, plan reviewers, inspectors and permit technicians.

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