ALWAYS USE A FENSA APPROVED INSTALLER
If you are planning on upgrading your windows, you will want to make sure to use a quality, trusted and reliable company that not only promises to do a good job but actually do a good job!
As well as making sure that the company you choose has a good reputation, it is important to make sure that they are a FENSA approved installer. But what does it mean to be FENSA approved and why is it important?
What is FENSA?
FENSA stands for the Federation Self-Assessment Scheme and it was brought in when the Government launched new building regulations for double-glazing companies in 2002.
FENSA covers the replacement of external uPVC windows, doors, roof windows and roof lights in England and Wales. A FENSA registration means that the company doing the installation meets the minimum standards of quality and compliance required.
IS FENSA a legal requirement?
All windows that have been replaced since 1st April 2002 must have a FENSA or building regulations certificate to show that they are legally compliant.
Not only is it illegal for double glazing to be installed without a building regulations certificate, if the proper building control procedures have not been followed you could be faced with an enforcement notice or even prosecution.
How do I get my FENSA certificate?
A FENSA certificate will usually take around 2 – 4 weeks to be issued if your installer is FENSA registered, however, if your installer is not a FENSA registered company then it can take up to two months to obtain a certificate from your local building control department.
If you find that you do not have a FENSA certificate, there are generally two options:
Apply for ‘Retrospective Building Regulation Compliance Certificate’ at a cost of £300 – £400 and quite a long wait
Take out an appropriate indemnity insurance policy if the work was completed more than a year ago. Generally, this will range from £180 – £500 and protect you against loss if there are any enforced alterations or removal from your Local Authority.
Get it right first time
With the potential hassle and issues that may occur due to not having a FENSA certificate (including delays should you need to sell your property), we strongly recommend that you get it right the first time and make sure you use a FENSA approved installer.
We are FENSA approved and all our windows come with a FENSA certificate. We are proud of the quality of work that we carry out and would be more than happy to answer any questions that you may have.