Egress Window Guide — What Ontario Homeowners Need to Know

What Is an Egress Window?

An egress window is a window large enough for a person to escape through in an emergency — and for a firefighter to enter. In Ontario, egress windows are required in all basement bedrooms and are essential for any legal basement suite. They provide a critical safety exit and also bring valuable natural light into your basement.

Egress Window Size Requirements

Under the Ontario Building Code, basement bedroom egress windows must provide a minimum unobstructed opening (generally at least 0.35 square metres / 3.8 square feet) with no dimension less than 380mm (15 inches). The window must open easily without tools or special knowledge. Window wells for below-grade windows have their own size requirements.

The Installation Process

1. Assessment and planning
2. Excavation of the window well
3. Cutting the foundation opening
4. Installing the window and well
5. Adding drainage to prevent water pooling
6. Finishing and waterproofing

How Much Do Egress Windows Cost?

Egress window installation typically costs $3,000–$6,000 per window in the GTA, including excavation, cutting, the window, well, and drainage. The cost varies based on foundation type and depth. This is often included as part of a basement finishing or legal suite project.

Need Egress Windows? We Handle It

RenoBuzz installs code-compliant egress windows as part of our basement renovation and legal suite services. We handle excavation, foundation cutting, installation, and waterproofing. Call (905) 555-2699 for a free quote.