Egress Window Codes and Regulations: What You Need to Know

Egress Window Codes and Regulations: What You Need to Know

Egress Window Codes and Regulations: What You Need to Know

If you're considering installing egress windows in your home, knowing the codes and regulations around their installation is important. Egress windows are required by law in most residential buildings to provide a safe exit in emergencies like fires or floods. Here's what you need to know about egress window codes and regulations:

Minimum size requirements: Egress windows must meet specific size requirements to be considered legal. Generally, they must be at least 20 inches wide and 24 inches tall, with a total opening area of at least 5.7 square feet. This allows for easy escape in case of an emergency and allows emergency personnel to enter the building if necessary.

Window well requirements: Egress windows must also be installed with a window well to prevent debris from blocking the window and allow occupants to climb out quickly in an emergency. The window well must be at least 36 inches wide and 36 inches deep and have a ladder or steps for easy exit.

Distance from the floor: Egress windows must be installed at a specific height to ensure easy access in an emergency. The bottom of the window opening must be no more than 44 inches from the floor, and the window well must be no more than 12 inches below the window opening.

Codes and permits: Depending on your location, specific regulations, and licenses may be required to install egress windows. Hiring Elite Egress for your egress window installation provides the peace of mind that all licensing and regulations are met for your city and state’s requirements. 

Inspections: After installation, egress windows are typically subject to inspection by local authorities to ensure that they meet all of the necessary codes and regulations. Elite Egress works with the local authorities to schedule those inspections removing the responsibility from the homeowner. 

Understanding these egress window codes and regulations ensures your home is safe and legal. Give Elite Egress, LLC. a call at 402-860-6392 to talk with one of our professional window installers today to learn more about your options for installing egress windows in your home. Elite Egress, LLC. services areas from Northeast Nebraska to Lincoln.