Why Windows Matter During a Home Inspection

By Biffs Professional Home Inspections

At Biffs Professional Home Inspections we look at windows for more than just appearance. Windows play a key role in safety, ventilation, and how a room is classified, especially in bedrooms and bathrooms.

Bedroom Windows: Safety First

Bedrooms must have a proper egress window—a window large enough to allow safe escape during an emergency and entry for a firefighter with full gear and air tank.

During the inspection, we check that the window:

Opens easily from the inside
Requires no keys or tools or removal of any opening hardware
Is large enough for emergency escape
Windows must have a 5.7 square foot opening if they are above 44 inches of the exterior grade, if they are below 44 inches from the grade they must have a 5 foot square opening
Is not set too high off the floor
Has a proper window well if below grade meeting normal building standards

If these requirements aren’t met, the room may not qualify as a legal bedroom.

Bathroom Windows: Proper Ventilation

Bathrooms need a way to remove moisture to prevent mold and damage. This is done by an exhaust fan.

A working exhaust fan that vents outside (not into the attic or crawlspace)
If the bathroom does have windows the following is required:
If the window is below 60 inches from the floor and 60 inches or less horizontally from the edge of a tub or shower, it should be safety glass

Window Condition Matters

We also inspect window condition, including:

Broken or cracked glass
Damaged or missing hardware
Windows that don’t open or stay open
Failed seals or fogged glass
Signs of water damage or rot

Why This Matters

For Buyers: Confirms safety, legality, and helps avoid surprise repairs.

For Sellers: Reduces inspection issues and helps keep the transaction moving smoothly.

If you have questions about your home’s windows or are preparing to buy or sell, Biffs Professional Home Inspections is here to help.