Operable Windows

Operable windows in common spaces allow occupants to control the comfort of their living environment and increase access to daylight and fresh air, contributing to enhanced mental health.

Key Terms

• An Operable Window is a window that may be opened and shut to accommodate ventilation needs, as opposed to a fixed light or fixed sash.
• Common Space(s) are area(s) located within the building or development that are open to all regular occupants for general use.

Strategy Insights

• Fitwel requires that at least 51% of common areas, based on total count of common areas, not square footage, make operable windows available. 
• Unlike the Multifamily Residential strategy “Operable Windows in Dwelling Units,” this strategy only requires that there be a minimum of one operable window per habitable common area.
• Where windows are not provided, exterior-leading doors, including doors opening onto balconies, may qualify.

Documentation Guidance

• Photographs and specifications must clearly show that windows can be manually opened and closed (e.g., photographs showing the windows in open position should be submitted along with other required documentation).
• Include all indoor common areas identified in other strategies.