What egress does a New Brunswick basement apartment need?

A basement apartment in New Brunswick requires at least one dedicated egress window in each bedroom, plus a separate exit from the unit itself — these aren't optional, they're life-safety requirements under the National Building Code of Canada 2020 (now mandatory for new applications in NB as of May 1, 2025).

Here's what the NBC requires for each bedroom in the secondary suite:

• Minimum opening area: 0.35 m² (about 3.8 sq ft)
• Minimum opening height: 380 mm (15 inches)
• Minimum opening width: 380 mm (15 inches)
• Maximum sill height from floor: 1,000 mm (39 inches) — so someone can actually climb out
• Window wells: If the window is below grade, the well must be large enough to allow escape and must be kept clear of obstructions

Beyond the bedroom windows, the unit itself needs a second means of egress separate from the main dwelling above. This is typically a dedicated exterior door — a walkout, side door, or stairwell to grade. You cannot rely solely on passing through the main floor unit to escape.

Fire separation is the other half of the safety equation. The floor/ceiling assembly between the basement apartment and the unit above must achieve a minimum 45-minute fire-resistance rating. This usually means 5/8" Type X drywall on the basement ceiling, properly taped and finished. Interconnected smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are required in both units.

In terms of who approves this: if you're in Moncton, Fredericton, Saint John, or another incorporated municipality, your building permit comes from that city's planning and development department. If you're in a rural or unincorporated area — say, outside Moncton near Shediac, or rural areas around Fredericton — your permit comes from the relevant Regional Service Commission (RSC). Either way, a permit is required before you start cutting window openings or framing walls.

The window installation itself involves cutting through a concrete or block foundation wall — not a weekend DIY project. You'll need a contractor experienced in foundation work, and the framing/lintel above the new opening must be properly supported. Budget $2,500–$5,000 per egress window in the New Brunswick market, depending on foundation type (poured concrete vs. block), window well requirements, and drainage needs. Electrical and plumbing for the suite are separate costs and must be done by licensed tradespeople with permits through NB Power and TIS respectively.

One thing worth checking before you commit: zoning approval. Secondary suites are permitted in many NB municipalities but rules vary — Fredericton and Moncton are generally permissive, but Saint John and smaller towns vary by neighbourhood. Contact your local municipality or RSC first to confirm your property is zoned for a secondary suite, then pull the building permit. Getting the zoning confirmed before spending money on windows saves a lot of headaches.

You can find contractors experienced in basement suite conversions through the New Brunswick Construction Network directory — look for foundation specialists and general contractors familiar with secondary suite code requirements in your area.