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Code requires an egress window well be dug for egress windows below ground level. The area at the bottom of the well must equate to 9 square feet, and there must be 36” of clearance between the egress window and the back of the well. Wells deeper than 44” must have ladders or egress window steps attached, and well covers and grates must open or lift from the inside without the assistance of tools.

There is no set number of egress windows required in a basement, but there must be one:

1. In any bedroom or sleeping area.
2. In any rec room, office, or home theater, should they NOT adjoin with a bedroom.
3. If multiple rooms in Category 2 adjoin, only one needs an egress window (or door).

The minimum size of a basement egress window allowable is 5.7 square feet — it can be a minimum of 24” in height or 20” in width. Still, those dimensions multiplied together must total 5.7 square feet (versus an above-ground egress window, whose minimum clear opening area must only total 5.0 square feet).

Most states’ egress window requirements are derived from the International Residential Code (IRC), which lays out safety standards for single and multi-family homes.

Ultimately, there is no bad time to add basement egress and enhance the safety to your home. Every season offers unique advantages:

• Wintry conditions provide the least amount of damage to your property/ground/grass, since the ground is frozen.
• Summertime provides longer days and more daylight, allowing egress installation crews to get more done.
• A cool and dry spring or fall day offer egress installers the most ideal, comfortable working conditions.

While our egress installation partners would love a lightly breezy, sunny 65-70 degree day to operate (wouldn’t we all?!), they can absolutely accommodate you virtually any time of year. 

Take into account the number of windows needed, the specific safety requirements of your building, and any unique project goals. Our team will assist you in evaluating these factors for a successful installation!

Egress windows provide accessible exit points, allowing for faster evacuation and easier access for emergency responders. This reduces response times while increasing the overall effectiveness of emergency operations. Quicker response times and access save lives!

Properly installed egress windows provide a safe, secure exit, which can significantly lower the liability associated with accidents or emergencies. This proactive measure helps protect building owners from potential legal claims.

Egress windows may also reduce the insurance premium since these windows allow fires to be fought from under the floor system, as well. Check with your insurance carrier to be sure!

Egress windows ensure that buildings comply with safety regulations — such as the IRC Egress Code — which is crucial for legal compliance. This reduces the risk of legal issues and guarantees that buildings meet all necessary safety and emergency exit standards.

Egress windows are beneficial for all rental properties, including those housing students, temporary residents, or multi-generational families.