A modular shelter isn't built on site from scratch: reinforced concrete modules are manufactured at the factory, and only installed on site. This means most of the time goes into manufacturing and site preparation, while the installation itself takes hours, not months.
Stages and timeframes
| Stage | What happens | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation and model selection | Engineers select a model based on occupancy, site conditions and budget | Depends on the client |
| Module manufacturing | Reinforced concrete modules (C35–C45 concrete) are produced at the factory | Specified in the commercial offer; depends on the model and factory workload |
| Site preparation | Foundation base for the shelter, access route for equipment; for underground shelters — excavation pit | Completed before installation crew arrives |
| Delivery and installation | Modules are delivered and installed by crane | Up to 24 hours for a shelter for up to 50 people |
| Fit-out | Interior fit-out based on selected options | Up to 48 hours |
| Handover | Shelter and documentation handed over to the client | Full cycle from delivery to handover — up to 7 days |
Why modular shelters are installed so quickly
- Factory-ready modules. Modules arrive ready-made: there's no need to pour concrete on site and wait for it to cure.
- Standardized design. «Fortetsia» modules are engineered using LIRA structural analysis software, with 300 mm walls and C35–C45 concrete. The structure doesn't need to be re-engineered for each project.
- Turnkey installation. One team handles delivery, installation, and — for underground shelters — excavation and waterproofing.
For comparison: a cast-in-place concrete shelter typically takes months to build — design, concrete pouring, curing, finishing. Hobbit House built a five-person radiation shelter from a «Fortetsia» module in seven days.
Site preparation checklist
- A prepared foundation base for the shelter — engineers provide site-specific requirements after an inspection.
- Access route for a truck and crane, plus working space for the crane.
- An installation area clear of utility lines: the location of underground networks and overhead lines is checked in advance.
- For the underground «Hobbit 2.0» shelter — space for an excavation pit; Hobbit House handles the excavation and waterproofing.
Above-ground vs. underground: difference in timeframes
Above-ground «Fortetsia» shelters are installed fastest: modules are placed on a prepared base, and a shelter for up to 50 people is ready on site within a day. The underground «Hobbit 2.0» shelter for 12 people requires an excavation pit, waterproofing and backfilling, so the timeframe is longer — it's confirmed after a site inspection.
You can see the installation process in this Hobbit House video.
What happens after installation
Along with the shelter, the client receives a certificate of conformity to DSTU 9329 (the Ukrainian national standard for protective structures), a manufacturer's declaration, and a structure passport. The client submits these documents to the relevant authorities — in Ukraine, this includes the State Emergency Service (DSNS) — who sign an inspection report for the shelter. Based on the inspection results, the structure is registered in the national register of civil protection facilities.
The shelter comes with a 5-year warranty and a design service life of 25 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a shelter be installed in one day?
Yes. An above-ground «Fortetsia» shelter for up to 50 people is installed within 24 hours. After installation, fit-out takes up to another 48 hours depending on the selected options.
What determines the overall timeframe?
The model and number of modules, manufacturing time, site readiness, delivery distance, and chosen fit-out options. For underground shelters, excavation work and soil conditions are additional factors.
Who carries out the installation?
Hobbit House provides turnkey installation: delivery, assembly, and — for underground shelters — excavation and waterproofing. The company's engineers manage the project from design through installation.
Can the shelter be relocated afterward?
Yes. A modular shelter can be disassembled and relocated: dismantling and relocation are part of Hobbit House's services.
What documents does the client receive after installation?
A certificate of conformity to DSTU 9329, a manufacturer's declaration, and a structure passport. With these documents, the client completes the shelter inspection, after which the structure is registered in the national register of civil protection facilities.
Key takeaways
- An above-ground shelter for up to 50 people is installed within 24 hours, with the full cycle from delivery to handover taking up to 7 days.
- The longest stage is module manufacturing and site preparation, not the installation itself.
- Underground shelters require excavation and waterproofing, which adds to the overall timeframe.
To find out the exact timeframe for your site, contact Hobbit House engineers or browse the catalog of shelter models.