When it comes to increasing your home’s value and passing inspection with flying colors, few upgrades are as impactful—and often overlooked—as installing proper egress windows. Whether you’re selling your Wisconsin home or planning a basement renovation, understanding how egress windows affect resale can help you make smart, code-compliant decisions that appeal to both buyers and home inspectors.

What Is an Egress Window?

An egress window is a window large enough to serve as an emergency exit. It’s required by building code for any habitable space in a basement—such as bedrooms, offices, or living areas. Beyond safety, egress windows also provide natural light, ventilation, and legal compliance.

Why Egress Windows Matter to Homebuyers

1. Safety and Peace of Mind
Today’s buyers are increasingly aware of fire safety and emergency escape options. Homes with properly installed egress windows signal that safety was a top priority.

2. Legal Bedroom Classification
Without an egress window, a basement bedroom isn’t considered legal. Buyers looking for more usable living space may not assign value to a non-compliant room.

3. Natural Light and Comfort
Basements often feel dark or enclosed. An egress window brings in natural light, making the space feel open, livable, and much more appealing to potential buyers.

What Home Inspectors Are Looking For

Home inspectors across Southern and Central Wisconsin typically check for the following when it comes to egress windows:

• Window Size – Must meet minimum height and width (at least 5.7 sq. ft. of clear opening in most cases)

• Height from Floor – Bottom of the window must be no more than 44 inches from the floor

• Window Well Dimensions – If below grade, the well must provide enough room to exit comfortably

• Ladder or Steps – Required if the well is more than 44 inches deep

• Functionality – Must open easily without tools, keys, or special knowledge

If these requirements aren’t met, a home may face issues during inspection, potentially delaying closing or reducing the home’s value.

Do Egress Windows Increase Resale Value?

Yes. Installing an egress window can:

• Increase your home’s appraised value by converting basement space into legal, livable square footage

• Make your listing more attractive to buyers looking for additional bedrooms or flexible space

• Improve your home’s standing in competitive real estate markets across Southern and Central Wisconsin

Selling Soon? Here’s When to Install

If you’re planning to sell in the next year or two and your basement includes finished or partially finished space without egress, now is the time to consider installing a window. Not only will you enjoy a safer, more comfortable space while you still live there, but your home will be inspection-ready when it hits the market.

Trust Wisconsin’s Egress Window Specialists

At EZegress Windows, we specialize in professionally installed, code-compliant egress windows across Southern and Central Wisconsin and surrounding areas. Whether you’re remodeling for your family or preparing to sell, we’ll make sure your basement adds value—not complications.

Ready to increase your home’s market appeal?
Contact EZegress Windows today for a free consultation and personalized quote.