§ 257-17 — Basement Rooms

257-17. Basement Rooms.

In existing buildings, no living or sleeping rooms shall be located and maintained in a basement when not in compliance with the following: 1. Rooms shall have a minimum ceiling height of 7 feet 6 inches from floor to basement ceiling. 2. A minimum to 50% of the clear ceiling height of any basement dwelling shall be above the lot grade adjoining that room. 3. All rooms shall have a window or windows opening upon an open space, and the total window area for each room shall be at least 1/10 of the floor area of that room, with the upper half of such window capable of being open for the full width of the window. 4. The walls and floor shall be dampproof and waterproof. 5. Such rooms shall be fit for human habitation as determined by the department. 6. Such rooms shall be provided with 2 means of exiting. The exiting requirements shall comply with ch. SPS 362, Wis. Adm. Code, as amended.