Opinion: Basement Egress Windows

Inquiry: 96-03

Subject: Basement Egress Windows

Code:
Code: 1994 UBC Section 310.4

Submitted By: MN B. O. Uniformity Committee

Approved By: Thomas R. Joachim, State Building Official

Issue Date: July 22,1996

Question #1: If I finish my basement into more usable living space, must I install an egress window even though the space does not include a bedroom?

Answer #1 The committee will be proposing a code change to clarify that existing basements are exempt from this requirement.

Question #2 Is a guardrail required on the top of egress window wells that are adjacent to walkways not used as required exits?

Committee comments: The committee will be proposing a code change to clarify that existing basements are exempt from this requirement.

Answer #2 No. The building code does not address this particular situation. (however, see 509.1 for ramps)

Committee comments: Adopted by committee November 8, 1995 and approved (with deletion) at the 40th Annual Institute of Building Officials on January 12, 1996.

Inquiry:	96-03
Subject:	Basement Egress Windows
Code:	Code: 1994 UBC Section 310.4
Submitted By:	MN B. O. Uniformity Committee
Approved By:	Thomas R. Joachim, State Building Official
Issue Date:	July 22,1996
Question #1:	If I finish my basement into more usable living space, must I install an egress window even though the space does not include a bedroom?
Answer #1	The committee will be proposing a code change to clarify that existing basements are exempt from this requirement.
Question #2	Is a guardrail required on the top of egress window wells that are adjacent to walkways not used as required exits?
Committee comments:	The committee will be proposing a code change to clarify that existing basements are exempt from this requirement.
Answer #2	No. The building code does not address this particular situation. (however, see 509.1 for ramps)
Committee comments:	Adopted by committee November 8, 1995 and approved (with deletion) at the 40th Annual Institute of Building Officials on January 12, 1996.