What Is FENSA, And Why Does It Matter?

At Truglaze we’ve been known to mention that we’re a FENSA registered company a few times. It’s something we’re very proud of, and we believe it sets us apart from a lot of other installers out there. But it occurred to us that unless you’re in the trade, you might not know what that means. So today we wanted to take a second to explain what FENSA is, what it means, and why it matters to you.

What is FENSA

FENSA is the name of the official, government-authorised Competent Persons Scheme (or CPS) that monitors building regulation compliance – specifically for doors and windows. They are like the top boss for any company who installs windows and doors, giving you an easy to recognise mark for a reputable installer. FENSA’s mission is to improve window and door replacements across the UK by regulating installers and providing extra protection for homeowners. They make sure all work complies with the relevant building regulations, and that installers are registered with the local council. Which all sounds very professional – because that’s what they push us to do. We’ve been FENSA registered and compliant since we first set up, and are proud to be part of it.

What is a FENSA Certificate?

Part of being a FENSA member is that you get a nice shiny FENSA certificate. This certificate covers; ‘the replacement of external windows, doors, roof windows and roof lights against the relevant Building Regulations in domestic properties on the original footprint of the property where the use or size of rooms have not been altered.’

This essentially means that you can be sure any FENSA registered glazier won’t ruin your existing windows and doors. It also shows that your new installation is energy efficient, is registered with the local council (which you legally need to do) and proves that any guarantee the installer gave is insured.

But there are a lot of areas where a FENSA certificate isn’t actually needed, mainly when they are being installed in a new property or new part of the property. This includes when windows and doors are being installed into:

• New builds
• Extensions
• Conservatories
• Commercial premises
• Listed buildings
• Porches

Why you should use a FENSA Registered Company

Well, the main reason is that you really need to. Not all installers will comply with building regulations, ad not all of them will register your installation with the local council. But legally they need to, and that’s one thing that FENSA guarantees they are doing. They also provide you with a FENSA certificate for your new windows and doors, which is essential when it comes to selling your property.

That’s the legal side of things, but from the personal side, it’s all about security. That little piece of paper is your peace of mind. That you’re using a reputable installer, who will take all the right steps to make sure your installation is legal, and who will take very good care of you.

So that’s why we’re so proud to be FENSA registered. At Truglaze we will always provide you with a FENSA certificate whenever it’s needed, and we are happy to talk through what it means and how it works any time. So if you would like to find out more about us, FENSA or just want to look at some new windows and doors, we would love to hear from you. Just drop us a line and we’ll be happy to chat.