What is the FENSA Scheme?

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Since April 2002, all replacement glazing has come within the scope of building regulations. This means anyone who installs replacement windows or doors has to comply with current regulations for the following areas:

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• Thermal performance standards

• Protection against impact and falling

• Fire safety

• Resistance to contaminants and moisture

• Ventilation

• Materials and workmanship

• Access to buildings

• Structure – applies to bay windows and other windows that are load bearing

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There are two ways to prove compliance:

1. A FENSA certificate showing that the work has been done by a FENSA registered company.

2. A certificate from the local authority or building control authority saying that the installation has approval under building regulations.

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Why choose a FENSA registered company?

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A FENSA registered company has undergone strict vetting procedures and is routinely inspected to ensure building regulation compliance is maintained. The FENSA scheme allows window and door installation companies that meet their stringent criteria to self-certify that their work complies with building regulations. It was set up by the Glass and Glazing Federation and meets with Central Government approval. A sample of the work of every installer is inspected by FENSA appointed inspectors to ensure standards are maintained and installers who fail to perform can be suspended or even excluded from the scheme. A FENSA registered fitter will notify FENSA of each installation when the fitting work is complete. FENSA make random checks to monitor the standard of installations, they also inform local authorities of all completed FENSA installations and issue certificates to householders confirming compliance. In addition, by using a FENSA registered company you will benefit from reduced costs as you will avoid the need for local authority inspections and fees.

Any installation done by a company which is not registered by FENSA, including work done as a DIY project by a householder, needs full local authority approval under building regulations. The property owner is ultimately responsible for ensuring the work complies with building regulations. When a property is sold, the purchaser’s solicitor will ask for evidence that any replacement glazing installed after April 2002 complies with building regulations. Click here for more information https://www.fensa.org.uk/