Construction and Building Inspector how-to
How to Check Emergency Escape Window Requirements
Sleeping rooms and basements generally need an emergency escape and rescue opening. These values reflect the IRC model code, always verify the edition and amendments adopted locally.
Sleeping rooms and basements generally need an emergency escape and rescue opening. These values reflect the IRC model code, always verify the edition and amendments adopted locally. In short: confirm; measure; measure, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Confirm the room requires an emergency escape and rescue opening (such as a sleeping room or basement).
Measure the net clear opening area, generally at least 5.7 square feet (5.0 square feet at grade-floor openings).
Measure the net clear opening height, at least 24 inches.
Measure the net clear opening width, at least 20 inches.
Measure the sill height from the floor: no more than 44 inches.
If the window is below grade, check the window well size and ladder or steps.
Note any deficiency on the correction notice with the code section.
Safety reminders for construction and building inspectors
- Wear a hard hat, safety boots and high-visibility clothing on job sites
- Watch for open floor edges, holes and unstable ladders
- Don’t enter unsafe excavations or structures
- Coordinate with the site supervisor about active hazards
Key terms
IBC · IRC · Building permit · Plan review · Certificate of occupancy (CO) · Correction notice: see the full construction and building inspector glossary.