In Calgary, the Alberta Building Code requires an egress window in every basement bedroom, with a minimum unobstructed opening of 0.35 square metres (about 3.8 square feet), no dimension less than 380 mm, and a window well that allows the window to open fully. Cutting a larger opening into a concrete foundation is structural work that usually needs a permit and careful waterproofing of the new well. Jonathan Edwards is involved on every job, so you get one point of contact and a fixed-price quote with no surprises.
Egress Windows: Non-Negotiable for Legal Bedrooms
If you’re building a bedroom in your Calgary basement, you need an egress window. Not optional. It’s code, it saves lives in fires, and it’s the #1 thing inspectors check.
Alberta Building Code Requirements
Per Alberta Building Code (Section 9.9.10):
- Every bedroom must have at least one egress window (or door to exterior)
- Minimum opening: 0.35 m² (3.77 sq ft)
- No dimension less than: 380 mm (15 inches)
- The window must open without tools or keys
- Sill height maximum 1.5 m (59″) from floor
- Window well (if below grade) must be 550 mm (22″) clear from window to wall
- Window well deeper than 1.5m requires a permanent ladder or steps
Secondary Suite Requirements (Calgary)
Legal secondary suites have additional rules. Each bedroom needs egress, but the suite also needs a separate exit path, interconnected smoke alarms, and fire separation from the main dwelling. See our legal suite guide.
Cost Breakdown in Calgary
| Component | Cost |
|---|---|
| Window unit (casement or slider) | $600 – $1,400 |
| Concrete cutting (foundation) | $1,200 – $2,500 |
| Excavation & window well install | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Framing, drywall, interior trim | $500 – $1,200 |
| Permit & inspection | $150 – $400 |
| Total per window | $4,500 – $8,500 |
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⚠ Estimate Disclaimer: These are only ROUGH estimates that can vary wildly. Do not take these numbers as gospel. Having a defined scope of work and exact selections will give you clarity.
The Install Process (Step by Step)
- Pull development permit from City of Calgary
- Mark location (away from gas lines, electrical, plumbing)
- Call Alberta One-Call to locate utilities
- Excavate from outside down to below the sill height
- Cut through concrete foundation wall (concrete saw)
- Frame the opening and install window
- Install window well (galvanized steel or stone/concrete)
- Add drainage (gravel bed, connection to weeping tile or sump)
- Backfill, waterproof, trim interior, inspection
Common Window Well Options
- Galvanized steel semi-circle: $150-$400 (cheapest, utilitarian)
- Stacked stone or block: $800-$2,500 (custom look)
- Composite (plastic): $300-$600 (durable, easy)
- Poured concrete: $1,500-$4,000 (premium, permanent)
Drainage: Don’t Skip This
Window wells collect water. Without drainage, you’ll flood the basement. Install 3-4 feet of gravel in the well bottom, connected to the weeping tile system. A well cover reduces water entry and keeps debris and rodents out.
DIY vs Pro
Cutting a concrete foundation wall isn’t a DIY job. You need structural consideration (the cut location can weaken the wall), proper concrete saws, excavation equipment, and permit/inspection compliance. Hire a licensed contractor.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on how much foundation has to be cut, the size and type of window and well, and drainage and waterproofing details. Your fixed-price quote will vary based on your selections and square footage.
Yes — cutting or enlarging an opening in a foundation wall is structural work that requires a building permit and inspection in Calgary. We handle the permitting and coordinate the inspection.
Code requires a minimum unobstructed opening of 0.35 square metres with no dimension less than 380 mm, and the window well must let the window open fully. We confirm the exact requirement for your room and layout before we build.
Yes — any basement bedroom needs a compliant egress window for safe escape, and it's essential for a legal secondary suite. We make sure the opening, well and drainage all meet code.
Related reading: Basement Renovations & Development Calgary: The Complete Guide (2026) · Basement Suite Rental Income Calgary: What You Can Earn · Basement Development Permit Calgary: What You Need to Know