For proper fire safety, a bedroom window should open easily without special tools. With the window fully open, the window opening should be large enough for someone to get through in an emergency. To qualify as an emergency egress window, the window sill should not be so high as to be inaccessible. If your home inspector finds that a bedroom window does not qualify as an egress window, you should look at the feasibility of replacing the window with an egress window. Today, window manufacturers clearly state in their literature which windows qualify as egress windows.

If a room does not have an egress window, it should not be used as a bedroom.

The condition of the window is important. Check for broken or cracked glass. On single-glazed windows, check the sash joints for looseness and the wood for rot. Check the window sills and casing for rot. Check the window glass for looseness. Check for loose or missing glazing compound putty. If the window has insulated glass, make sure that the cavity has not become fogged. Window hardware should function properly. Check also for peeling and flaking paint on the window sashes, window sills, and trim.

It is really important to try opening and closing every window. Sometimes older double-hung windows are painted shut. Sometimes casement or sliding windows become jammed shut. Always try opening windows on both sides of a bay window. The side window frames on these are often out of square.

Finally, take note of the energy efficiency of the window. If the window is single-glazed, is there an outside storm window protecting it? Are the sashes loose and drafty?

Take a look at the door next.