A self-assembly kit significantly reduces overall costs and gives you complete control over the construction process and timing, ensuring it meets your exact needs.

This varies depending on ground conditions and your level of experience. In most cases, expect a few weeks of part-time work, from excavation to final touches.

The main structure will arrive on an HGV. You will need to arrange to unload it and place it in the trench you have prepared.

With the ventilation system running continuously there is no possibility of condensation forming. The system is designed to handle the extra moisture in the air when in occupation.

Mean temperature at one metre underground in the UK ranges from 12.5oC in southern England to 8.8oC in northern Scotland. Once in the shelter you will be at about three metres depth. Despite these cooler temperatures the shelter is not insulated because there is no point. The ventilation system will replace all the air in the shelter every hour. You will need warm clothes when in residence.

Yes. Regular checks should keep everything running smoothly. There is a comprehensive guide included with the unit.

Our comprehensive manual is designed to walk you through each step. We also offer phone and email support for any tricky questions. If you feel it is too much to take on yourself we recommend employing a local builder or groundworks company to assist with the installation.

You are required to pay the full amount up front so that we can make the necessary purchases associated with the build. There is however a 14 day ‘cooling off’ period before we will commence any work on the order.

The HDPE pipe can be produced in longer lengths and welded together. Custom designs can be accommodated but at an increased cost. Bear in mind that these need to be transported on an HGV and if it needs to be welded together on site then that will need to be paid for as well.

You can run electricity to the shelter and install a garage sized consumer unit inside to handle some lighting and a power socket. Given that you would then be relying on the National Grid to keep functioning it would be prudent to have a back up. One of the many brands of solar powered battery backups now on the market would be a welcome addition. You will need power to run the ventilation in peace time, so you should be prepared to install some basic electrics.

It is recommended that you ascertain where the water table is at the selected site. It would be advisable to dig the trench somewhere that it would not become and issue and make progress difficult. If the water table is too high then you might be better with the Type Two shelter which only requires a 2 metre deep trench to begin with.

Radon gas is a naturally occurring radioactive gas, created by decaying Uranium in the ground. It is odourless and colourless. Radon gas is found across the UK in differing levels. It is harmful to your health and is linked to lung cancer. Fortunately, it isn’t a concern in the shelter. Although it would be able to penetrate the shelter walls, the constant ventilation in the shelter will keep changing the air inside and carry away any gas. For further information visit www.ukradon.org