Egress window code:

Thanks Suero, that will help us make the decision.

In Kansas City, a bedroom must have a builtin closet, along with a window. Local codes are different, however.

Also, local property taxes are often modified by the number of bedrooms. The more bedroome, the higher the tax.

And, if you bought the house as a 3 bedroom and add one, often you will need permit forms to prove the addition was permitted to be able to sell the house as a 4 bedroom later. That, of course, is totally dependant on local record keeping and oversight procedures.

I once refused to do a job like that(just had to build a built in closet) because the home owner did not want to get a permit. Was an allowable job, but would have raised the property tax---which the HO did not want to do. And, the change was to sell the house.

We bought the house as a 5/3, but it is really a 4/3. The room in question does have a closet, however. I appreciate your information, but I'm thinking we probably won't do the job after all...but then again, maybe I'm just tired tonight!

Thanks again!

Where I live, you can just add a big window with a window well (you would have to re-route the path outside). There is no requirement for a staircase outside, as you can just climb out of the window well.

Check your local building code. It seems every area is different. I agree with Mac that you want a permit. In addition to keeping it legal, it also can allow you to enlist the help of the county if the contractor turns out to be iffy.

Depending the space between the walk and the house, what you are proposing is certainly doable. That window would have to function as an actual exit though, so the hole has to be shallow enough to climb out of or there needs to be a mechanism (ladder, steps) to get out.

However, this is something you REALLY would want to get permitted and have the work done by a reputable contractor. You are basically digging a big hole right next to your foundation. Done improperly, you could be creating a mini-swimming pool and potentially cause major water damage to the structure.

(Sorry if double posting is frowned upon - I did read the instructions and it wasn't mentioned).

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