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Since April 2002, all replacement glazing has had to fall within the scope of Building Regulations. Anyone who installs replacement windows or doors must comply with strict thermal and energy performance standards in order to reduce energy loss – which means choosing your double glazing installer wisely!
It is estimated that around 2 million installations of replacement glazing happen every year and, (as I’m sure you can imagine) if all of them were subject to the normal Building Regulations application process, it would result in a huge burden on local authorities. Of course though, it is essential to have a way to ensure that all installations are done properly, without an unreasonable increase in the administrative and financial burden on installers and property owners. To get around this, FENSA allows companies to self-certify that their work complies with Building Regulations.
FENSA stands for Fenestration Self-Assessment and was set up by the Glass and Glazing Federation. It meets with central Government approval and, although it is essential for installers to self-certify their work, FENSA carry out sporadic inspections on the registered companies in order to make sure standards are met and maintained. FENSA also inform local authorities of all completed FENSA installations and issue certificates to householders confirming compliance.
Here at Walkers Windows we get a few phone calls each month with questions about FENSA so, here’s a super quick guide:
Of course (see here). All installations by the company are FENSA regulated and, like all other registered companies, we are subject to sporadic inspections throughout the year to ensure we are maintaining our high standards.
When selling your property, your purchaser’s solicitors will ask for evidence that any replacement glazing installed since April 2002 complies with the Building Regulations – which of course is best proved with your FENSA certificate. Don’t worry though, if you have misplaced yours, you can order a new one directly from FENSA for £10.
Re-orders yours here.
Any glazing installed after April 2002, including any glass in doors (as long as the glass makes up over 50% of the door).
FENSA does not apply to conservatories, orangeries, porches, commercial premises or new build properties or extensions. In all of these instances you are required to go through the Local Authority Building Control process. If your property is a flat then planning permission may be required before replacing your windows, therefore it is advisable to check this with the Planning Department of your Local Authority.
Doors with less than 50% glazing do not require registration.
FENSA also does not apply to caravans or holiday chalets.
For more information about FENSA regulations, visit their website www.fensa.org.uk.
If you’d like a quote for replacement glazing, windows, doors or a conservatory please visit walkerswindows.com or call us free on 0800 849 222 9 for a no obligation quote from a member of our dedicated sales team!
