Replacement windows and doors
All replacement glazing comes under the building regulations. This means that anyone installing replacement windows or doors has to meet strict thermal performance standards.
If you sell your house your buyer's surveyors will ask for evidence that any replacement glazing installed after April 2002 complies with the building regulations. The ways to comply are:
- a certificate showing the work has been done by an installer who is registered under one of the following schemes:
- FENSA Scheme
- CERTASS Scheme
- BSI Scheme.
- a certificate from the local authority saying that the installation has approval under the building regulations.
The self certifying scheme
Installation companies that meet the standards are able to self-certify their work. They must be registered under the FENSA, CERTASS or BSI schemes. A sample of work of every installer will be checked to make sure standards are maintained. FENSA, CERTASS and BSI will also tell local authorities of all finished installations and give certificates to householders confirming compliance.
Any installation done by a firm which is not registered to self-certify, or as a DIY project, will need full local authority approval under the building regulations. Local authorities will know of all the approved installers in their areas and will be able to identify unauthorised work easily. You should note that you, as the house owner are responsible for making sure the work complies with the building regulations.
Before you sign a contract to buy replacement glazing, be sure to ask whether the installer is able to self-certify. If not, either they, or you, will need to make an application for approval under the building regulations and pay any relevant charges.