Basement egress windows in Edmonton
Code-sized windows so a basement room can legally be a bedroom, and so everyone can get out in a fire. More daylight, too. It starts with a free in-home estimate.
What an egress window project includes
Cutting, installing and finishing, inside and out, under the permit your municipality requires.
Utility locates
Buried lines are marked before any digging starts.Excavation and foundation cut
The ground is dug out and a larger opening is cut into the foundation wall.Window install
A new window sized to meet the egress rules, sealed and insulated.Window well
A well with the clearance the code requires, and gravel for drainage.Interior finish
Drywall, trim and paint around the new window.Permit and inspection
Enlarging a window needs a permit. Your builder can apply for it.The egress rules in plain terms
Every bedroom needs a way out in an emergency. In Alberta, these are the numbers that matter.
Minimum opening
At least 0.35 m² (3.77 sq ft) of clear opening, with no side smaller than 380 mm (15 in). An exterior door that opens from inside also counts.
Window well clearance
When the window opens into a well, you need at least 760 mm (30 in) of clear space in front of it.
Window styles
Sliders work if the open part alone meets the size. Casement and awning windows must open a full 90°, and an awning must stay open on its own.
Keeping water out
EPCOR recommends the top of the well sit 3–4 in above the ground, the well go at least 12 in below the window, and washed rock at the bottom. A cover helps too.
Summarized from the National Building Code – 2023 Alberta Edition and municipal guides. Rules change and vary by municipality; your builder can confirm what applies to your home, and your area page links to your municipality's permit office.
What shapes the cost of an egress window
Every basement is different, so a price list wouldn't tell you much. At your free estimate, a local builder looks at your space, talks through options that fit your budget and follows up with a written quote for your plan.
From estimate to finished basement
Free estimate
A local builder walks the space with you and talks through ideas.Plan and quote
A written quote for your plan, to review at your own pace.Permits and build
Drawings and permits first, then the work starts.Final walkthrough
Final inspection, then your new space is ready to enjoy.Popular basement layouts
More basement ideas →
Open family room
One big space for movies, games and guests
Bedroom + full bathroom
Room for guests, a teenager or a home office
Legal basement suite
Separate entrance, kitchen and bathroom, ready to rentRead before you start
All guides →Egress Windows questions
Does every basement bedroom need an egress window?
Every bedroom needs a way out: a window with at least 0.35 m² of clear opening and no side under 380 mm, or an exterior door. Rooms like a rec room, bathroom or laundry room don't.
Do I need a permit for an egress window?
Yes. In Edmonton, adding a window or changing its size needs a permit. Replacing a window with the same size doesn't. Your builder can take care of the permit.
Do buried utilities need to be located first?
Yes. Before any digging, buried lines are located through Utility Safety Partners. The service is free, but requests need at least three full working days.
Will an egress window leak?
Not if it's installed and drained properly. The well sits above grade, drains through washed rock, and a cover keeps snow and rain out.
How long does it take?
It depends on the foundation, access for digging and inspection timing. Your builder can give you an estimated schedule with your quote.