Burglar Bars

[Caryn]

I just appraised a home (FHA) which had burglar bars on all the windows. I called for the removal of the bars (or replacement with quick release latches) on the bedroom windows (1 window in each bedroom) but is it necessary to remove the bars on the other windows of the home?

Thanks

Caryn Blauser
Tampa, Florida

 

[Wally Jones]

Caryn,

Is there adequate egress from the other rooms (e.g., exterior doors) in the event of an emergency? If so, the burglar bars may not present a problem. I always ask myself if my family were in this house and there was a fire, would they be able to get out safely?

Also, you might want to check with the fire department to see if there is a local code regarding residential burglar bars. HUD usually defers to existing local requirements.

Regards.

Wally