Egress Window
A window that meets minimum size and opening requirements to provide an emergency escape route, required by building codes in all bedrooms.
The Ontario Building Code requires egress windows in every bedroom that is not served by an exterior door. The minimum clear opening must be at least 0.35 m² with no dimension less than 380 mm. The sill height cannot exceed 1,000 mm above the floor.
Basement bedrooms are the most common location where egress window compliance becomes an issue, especially in older homes being converted to secondary suites. Window wells may be required to provide the necessary clearance below grade.