Adding 2 Bedrooms...Sticking to Code (Windows, sunlight,etc.)

[Steve DellaPelle]

Hello,

I will be adding two new bedrooms to one of my units (the attic is a semi-finished area that used to be 2 bedrooms but due to a fire in the 80's was never finished)...one of the bedrooms I know will not be able to have a window and I have seen that the state code might require windows or a certain amount of sunlight in the room?

Can anyone shed some light on this code requirement? (see what I did there?)

[Jeff Weaver]

Yes. Code will require egress windows. 1 for each room.  I own a window company in Michigan and im up on the local  Michigan codes , but I’m pretty sure the egress code is national. 

You will need a window that when open will give you a clear opening of 20” wide, 24” tall and 5.7 sq ft of clear opening. ( that’s not the Window size) 

In a casement Window that  usually results to a window size approximately 30wx 44h.  but each manufacturer is different so you  need to specifically check with the manufacturer that you are purchasing the window from. 

 That should also cover any daylight requirements if there are any .  But again check local requirements 

 If you can’t put a window in the room it’s not a bedroom.

Jeff