Egress windows
The Building Code requires an emergency escape window in every sleeping room and in all basement dwelling units. Basic requirements for egress windows installation are outlined below.
Size & location requirements
Egress windows must have:
- A minimum clear openable width of 20 inches
- A minimum clear openable height of 24 inches
- A minimum clear openable area of 5.7 square feet (This means
that one or both of the dimensions must be increased.) - A finished sill height that is not more than 44 inches above the
finished floor
Window wells
If the emergency escape window opening is below grade, a window well must be installed on the outside of the building. The window well must:
- Be a minimum of 36 inches wide and give access to an area that is a minimum of nine square feet with window fully open
- Have a minimum 6-inch drop from the window sill to the ground
- Include a ladder if the well is more than 44 inches deep