Window Well Requirements

International Vs. Local Codes

• The International Code Council publishes a new International Residential Code every three years. The IRC serves as the model code around which the majority of building codes around the world are based. The IRC is not a law in itself, but becomes law once it has been adopted by a local government. Generally, cities and towns are several years behind the IRC in adopting new codes. For example, the IRC may publish its 2012 edition, but the laws in many towns across the U.S. are still based on the 2006 or 2009 version of the code. Individual towns and cities may also make changes to the code to reflect local preferences or special concerns. Always check with your local government to ensure window well requirements in your area match the IRC.

Location

• When sleeping rooms are located in the basement, each room must be equipped with a separate window well for emergency egress. A central window well serving multiple bedrooms is not acceptable to meet code.

Window Size

• Egress windows used at window wells must provide a clear opening size of at least 5.7 square feet. The opening must be at least 24 inches high and at least 20 inches wide. Occupants must be able to open and operate the window without any keys, tools or special knowledge.

Well Size

• Window wells must cover a horizontal area covering at least 9 square feet. The opening must project at least 36 inches from the building, with a minimum width of 36 inches. The dimensions of the well must allow the window to fully open.

Access

• All window wells deeper than 44 inches must have a permanent ladder or steps to allow users to climb out of the well after exiting the building. The ladder or steps must measure at least 12 inches wide and project at least 3 inches from the wall. Rungs must be placed a maximum of 18 inches apart. The ladder or steps may not encroach into the required minimum dimensions of the window well by more than 6 inches.

Covers

• The IRC allows covers and grates to be used at window wells to prevent falls and keep animals and debris out of window wells as long as the cover does not encroach on the minimize size requirement of the well. Occupants must be able to operate these covers from the inside without any tools, keys or special knowledge.