FENSA – Building Regulations and your windows

On the 1st April, 2002, the replacement of windows and doors came within the scope of the Building Regulations for England and Wales and, therefore, any replacement of windows and doors in your home are subject to the requirements of these regulations.

This was one of a number of changes to regulations designed to improve the thermal efficiency of our homes and to assist the Government in meeting its commitment to reduce CO2 emissions under the Kyoto Agreement. It will also mean that our homes are warmer and use less energy. The Regulations also address safety issues and the background ventilation of buildings.

In order to meet your commitments under the Building Regulations you can:

• Apply for approval to replace your windows and doors through your Local Authority
or Building Control Department for which there is usually a charge calculated as a
percentage of the project cost
or
• Use a manufacturer/installer who is registered with FENSA, for which there is usually
no additional charge

The FENSA scheme, set up by the Glass and Glazing Federation with the co-operation of the
Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, enables Registered Businesses, like Parsons Joinery Ltd., to certify through FENSA that the design, manufacture and installation of their windows and doors complies with current Building Regulations. Parsons Joinery Ltd. will report your installation to FENSA who will register your installation electronically with your Local Authority and send you a certificate to confirm compliance. This document should be kept safely as it will be required when you sell your property to demonstrate compliance.

FENSA registered businesses are required to understand the Regulations and be capable of installing a product in your home which meets these requirements. They will be in a position to advise you on the design and installation of windows and doors to ensure compliance and thus avoid problems which may occur when you eventually sell your home.

To ensure that Building Regulations are being met by registered businesses, FENSA also organise, on a random basis, the inspection of a number of installations, through British Board of Agrement inspection agents.

10 Benefits of using a FENSA registered company

1. Certificate to prove compliance with Building Regulations.
2. Saving of to £250.00 – no need to make a separate application to Building Control.
3. FENSA is a brand trusted and recognised by local authorities, industry and government.
4. All FENSA registered companies are vetted by independent inspection.
5. Deposit protection insurance.
6. 5-10 year guarantee.
7. Insurance backed guarantee.
8. Protection from poor workmanship – the scheme is withheld from companies who do not pass independent inspection.
9. Quick and simple to order replacement lost certificates.
10. Industry standard for replacement window and door installers.