Childproofing Windows - What is Required?

[Rachel H.]

Hi Folks! I have a tenant who is requesting to childproof the crank windows in the home she's renting from me by installing a product that has to screw into the casing. This would permanently damage the window, and so I'm looking for an alternative. This tenant then messaged me to request a formal signed letter if I refuse to let her install the product she wants to use. I told her I would comply with whatever was legally required, but I'm not yet sure what that is, so I'm trying to find out. For crank windows that aren't in a bedroom, and aren't the only egress, would it be sufficient to simply remove the crank so they can't open, since there's no requirement that they do so? Any tips on where I can find out what specifically is legally required by landlords in these cases? I'm in Portland, OR. Thanks for any info, suggestions, and tips! 

[Melissa Hartvigsen]

I have had rental properties in Oregon since 2014, and have never had this come up. @Nathan Gesner has a good point, I think this would be a violation of code due to preventing escape in the event of a fire.

Contact the Portland Rental Services office, they can confirm what is required. Linking their site below so you can grab their phone/email. [email protected]