Do You Have to Put Egress Windows in an Addition?

Egress Window Parameters

• An egress window is a window that allows an individual to escape from a building in an emergency. In most cases, egress windows provide alternate escape routes during fires, when doors or hallways are blocked by smoke or flames. In some cases, builders and homeowners use the term "egress window" to refer specifically to basement egress windows, which are significantly larger than conventional basement windows that aren't constructed for escape purposes. Many standard above-ground household windows meet the standards for egress windows.

Code Requirements

• While local building codes may give specific dimensions and requirements for egress windows, they are all similar to the requirements outlined in the International Residential Code. These requirements include a minimum width of 20 inches and a minimum height of 24 inches. Egress windows must be operable from inside and have sills that are less than 44 inches above the level of the interior floor. Local codes also specify which types of rooms and home additions need egress windows. In general, all bedrooms and basement living spaces require egress windows.

Additions With Egress Windows

• If your home addition includes a new above-ground bedroom, you'll need to put in an egress window. This applies whether the new bedroom is meant for permanent use or is intended to serve as a guest bedroom. It also applies to both first- and second-story bedrooms. If your home addition includes an expansion of your basement, and the new basement section includes a basement bedroom, you'll also need to install an egress window. Finally, if your addition adds living space to the basement, such as a media room or family room, you'll need an egress window even if there are no basement bedrooms.

Exempt Additions

• Some home additions don't require egress windows. They include additions to your first and second story that don't create new bedrooms, such as new living rooms, offices, breakfast nooks and outdoor additions such as decks and patios. If your basement already has an egress window to accommodate a living space, you only need to add an additional egress window if your addition creates a new basement bedroom. However, if the basement already has a bedroom with an egress window and your addition creates new basement living space, you don't need to add another basement egress window.