What's the install fee for an egress window in a Toronto basement?

Egress window installation in Toronto typically runs $2,500–$6,500 installed, depending on the scope of excavation, window size, and whether a window well is required.

The wide range comes down to a few key factors. The biggest cost driver is how much concrete cutting and soil excavation is needed. If your basement wall is poured concrete, expect to pay more than if it's block or brick — concrete cutting requires specialized equipment and adds labour time. A standard egress window opening is typically 20" wide x 24" tall minimum (to meet Ontario Building Code egress requirements), but many contractors recommend going larger for both safety and natural light.

Here's a rough breakdown of what the market looks like in Toronto right now:

• Basic install (block/brick wall, minimal excavation, no well): $2,500–$3,500
• Mid-range (poured concrete, standard window well, proper drainage): $3,500–$5,000
• Complex install (deep excavation, large well, waterproofing, finishing): $5,000–$6,500+

These prices typically include the concrete or masonry cutting, framing, window supply and install, a prefab window well, and basic backfill. What's often excluded: interior drywall finishing, painting, egress window covers/grates, and any waterproofing membrane work if your wall shows signs of moisture intrusion.

Toronto Permit Requirements

This is not a DIY or skip-the-permit job. The City of Toronto requires a building permit for egress window installations because it involves structural modification to your foundation wall. Permits run roughly $200–$400 for this scope of work and take 10–20 business days through the Toronto Building Division (416-397-5330 or toronto.ca/building). A proper permit also triggers an inspection, which protects you when it comes time to sell or if you're creating a legal basement apartment.

If you're adding the egress window as part of a secondary suite or basement apartment, there are additional requirements under Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 150.67 — your contractor should be familiar with these.

When to Call a Pro

Always hire a professional for this one. Cutting into a foundation wall without proper assessment can compromise your home's structural integrity, and improper installation is a leading cause of basement water infiltration. Look for a contractor experienced in underpinning, foundation work, or basement finishing — they'll know how to assess your soil conditions and existing waterproofing before cutting.

Your next step is to get 2–3 quotes from contractors who will assess the wall type, depth of your foundation, and drainage situation before pricing the job. Browse experienced basement contractors in the Toronto Construction Network directory to find local pros who work in your neighbourhood.