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For anyone planning to upgrade or replace glazed doors or windows, it’s most important to get a FENSA certificate from the installer when you have the work done.
Not only is a FENSA Certificate a legal requirement to show that your replacement windows and/or doors comply with building regulations, it also assures you that your installer meets the minimum standards of quality and compliance expected from today’s glazing industry, uses energy efficient products and also means the installation company’s warranty is insured.
What does FENSA stand for?
FENSA is The Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme, set up when the government launched the new Building Regulations for double-glazing companies in 2002. The regulations cover the replacement of external uPVC windows, doors, roof windows and roof lights in England and Wales.
What is the FENSA register?
The FENSA register lists accredited double-glazing installers in England and Wales who are registered with the government. It shows that the installer is a proficient professional who will install glazed doors and windows to building regulation standards, and can provide an up to 10-year insurance backed warranty.
What is a FENSA certificate?
A FENSA certificate is the UK government authorised certification provided to properly trained double-glazing installers to show that they have been registered with your local council by the installation company. You can think of it as a guarantee that the double-glazing installer who fits your new windows and doors abides by Building Regulations and local requirements.
A FENSA certificate is a legal requirement.
If your double-glazed windows have been replaced since 1st April 2002, it’s actually a legal requirement to have a FENSA certificate or a certificate to prove their legal compliance with building regulations. The certificate is also proof that the installation was completed by a FENSA registered company when you come to sell your property.
How do you get a copy a FENSA certificate?
If they were on the FENSA register, the original installer should have issued you with a FENSA certificate when they installed the windows and/doors; they should also have registered the installation with the local authority. You should keep the FENSA certificate safe in case you plan to sell your property and need to prove the work’s FENSA certification. This is especially important if you live in a conservation area.
If you’ve lost your FENSA certificate.
You can order a copy of the original certificate online on FENSA’s website by giving details of your property. If the double-glazing installer registered the installation with FENSA, they’ll have a record of the work. A replacement FENSA certificate costs £25 including VAT. Alternatively a solicitor will be able to obtain a replacement or duplicate certificate, but this will take longer and cost more.
Selling a property without a FENSA certificate.
If your double-glazing work was done without FENSA certification, the conveyancer could check local authority search results to see if the installation was certified, and by whom. You could also apply to your local authority for a ‘Retrospective Building Regulation Compliance Certificate’, but this can take time and cost up to £400. Alternatively, you could take out double-glazing building regulations indemnity insurance in case your local authority enforces alterations or the removal of the double glazing.
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Residence Collection have a network of installers and you can find your local FENSA certified installer using our handy search tool. Alternatively, download one of our brochures and start your Residence Journey today.
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