BUILDING CODE HACKS: EGRESS WINDOWS OR DOORS FOR BEDROOMS 9.9.10.1. - Ontario Building Code 2012

Disclaimer: This information is for general information purposes only, please refer to the National Building Code (NBC) or Ontario Building Code (OBC) for more detailed information.

This series is created to educate home owners regarding the items regulated by the Building Code*, so that they are informed enough to know if something is being done wrong during the construction process. DIYers out there and contractors/ builders are also welcomed. We all need to remind ourselves of the "code sings".... (sigh) once in a while .

---

Building Code requires to have an egress window on each floor that contains a bedroom but does not have an exit door on the same level as the bedroom. The code regulated minimum dimensions for the operable parts of the window - unobstructed opening should be at least 0.35 sm in area with the minimum dimension of 380 mm. The code also mentions that the required opening should be maintained without any additional support and that no special tools are required to open the window.

These requirements apply to both egress windows above and below grade. However, sill height varies depending on where the window is located. Code specifies that sill height should be max of 1000mm for all egress windows except for windows located in a basement. However, even in the basement, it is still advised to limit sill height to max 1.5m. Where it is hard to attain, the window can be located higher than 1.5m. Accessibility can be improved by positioning furniture that can be climbed to access the egress window in case of emergency.

---

Remember that even if you are not required to get a building permit and doing a renovation by yourself, you are still required to follow the Building Code. It's there to ensure your safety and safety of others.

Please email us at victoriaz@vdezignz.ca if you have any questions.

*This article is referencing Ontario Building Code