March in Oklahoma means one thing: springtime and storm season are officially here. If you’ve been considering a storm shelter, now is the time to do your homework and find a company you can trust. Not all storm shelters—or their installers—are created equal, and unfortunately, scams often occur after severe storms hit our state.
Below are the most important factors to consider when choosing a storm shelter installer (though these tips also apply to hiring any contractor or sub-contractor). Feel free to use this checklist to help keep your home and family safe.
1. Check for Proper Insurance
Make sure the company is fully insured to protect both you and them. Here’s what to look for:
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General Liability Insurance: Covers accidental damage done on your property. Moving a 15,000–30,000 lb. storm shelter with heavy equipment can pose risks, so this coverage is essential.
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Commercial Auto or Inland Marine Insurance: Protects against damage from company vehicles and equipment transported to different locations (like a backhoe). Without this coverage, you might be liable for accidents.
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Workers’ Compensation: Ensures employees are covered if they get injured on your property. You don’t want to be stuck with medical bills from unprotected workers.
2. Read Reviews, Research, and Watch Their Social Media
A company’s online presence can reveal red flags before you ever make a call:
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Search for Reviews: Look on Facebook, Google, BBB, and Yelp. Written reviews are especially informative; if a company’s Facebook review section is hidden or only shows stars, proceed with caution.
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Look at Their Online Behavior: If their only advertising strategy is bashing other companies or installation methods, consider it a warning sign. A reputable business will focus on sharing helpful information about their services, not just slandering competitors.
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Check the BBB: See if there have been any complaints and how they were handled.
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Visit Their Website: Look for photos of completed projects, a clear description of services, and evidence of their experience.
Take a few minutes to research online—your peace of mind is worth it.
3. Ask About Product Details & Certifications
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FEMA Standards: Confirm that their storm shelters meet or exceed FEMA guidelines.
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Tested & Certified: Shelters should be tested at the Texas Tech Wind Institute to ensure they can withstand direct tornado hits.
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Installation Method: Find out if they install themselves or subcontract. Neither is necessarily bad—just be sure you know who’s actually doing the work.
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Experience: Even if a company is new, the owner or operator might have years of experience. It never hurts to ask.
4. Understand the Pricing
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Avoid Cheap “Deals”: With storm shelters, you typically get what you pay for. Low-ball prices may mean cut corners, low-quality products, or poor workmanship.
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Deposits: A small deposit during busy storm seasons can be normal. However, avoid paying large amounts—or the full balance—upfront. That’s a big red flag.
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Taxes & Fees: Ask if the listed price includes installation and any taxes. Hidden costs can add up quickly.
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Final Price: Know the total cost before you agree to hire anyone.
Never be afraid to ask about hidden costs or fees—transparency is a sign of a reputable business.
5. Trust Your Gut
If a company’s communication style makes you uncomfortable, it might not be the best fit for you, no matter how well their product is pitched. You should feel confident with the people you choose to protect your home and family.
Ready to talk with a trusted, fully insured Oklahoma company? Give us a call or request a quote today.
Why Choose Sprague’s Backhoe?
Sprague’s Backhoe is proud to be:
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Fully insured, licensed, and bonded
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DEQ Certified with more than 20 years of industry experience
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Committed to integrity, quality & reliability—and our reviews reflect that dedication
We’d love the chance to earn your trust and your business. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a safer home—or want to learn more about how storm shelters work—get in touch with us today. We look forward to helping you stay protected this storm season!
