What is an egress window?

In Ottawa, egress windows are required in all basement living spaces where the space is used for sleeping purposes, such as a bedroom or a den.

According to the Ontario Building Code, an egress window in Ottawa must have an unobstructed opening of at least 0.35 square metres (3.77 square feet) with no dimension less than 380 millimetres (15 inches). The window should also be operable without the need for any tools or special knowledge, and the opening should be large enough to allow a person to escape or a firefighter to enter the room in the event of an emergency.

In addition to the size and accessibility requirements, egress windows in Ottawa must also meet certain safety and structural requirements to ensure their effectiveness in an emergency situation. For example, the window well or other access point should be designed to prevent water from entering the basement, and the window itself should be constructed with safety glass to prevent injuries from broken glass.

It's important to note that building codes and regulations can vary depending on the specific location and circumstances of the home, so it's always a good idea to consult with a qualified contractor or building official to ensure that your egress window meets all necessary requirements in the Ottawa region.