The Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme (FENSA) was established in 2002 to ensure that building regulations were met in all domestic window and door installations and replacements. But is having a FENSA certificate a legal requirement for doors and windows? The answer is a straightforward yes – all windows and fully glazed doors replaced or installed after 1st April 2002 must be supported by a self-certified FENSA certificate or an independently inspected building regulations certificate to demonstrate that they are legally compliant.
What Happens If I Don’t Have A FENSA Certificate?
Obtaining your FENSA certificate from your installer is extremely important, as not being able to show some recognised form of certification may make your property unsaleable. If the work you have had done requires additional building control sign off - for example, widening an aperture - and you do not having the building regulation certificate, it could lead to enforcement notices or even prosecution.
Getting A FENSA Certificate
If you had doors or windows replaced but were never issued a FENSA certificate, don’t worry. You can apply for a Retrospective Building Regulation Compliance Certificate, from your local authority. Providing there are no issues with the windows or doors in question, the certificate should be issued without problems.
If you suspect that your doors or windows are non-compliant or are unsure, and you would like your windows or doors to be checked over by an independent expert, it's possible to hire a third-party surveyor to assess them independently. The surveyor will issue reports and advice based on their findings, which can then be used as evidence when applying for your retrospective compliance certificate.
If you were issued a FENSA certificate but it has subsequently gone missing, you should be able to obtain a new document by contacting either the installer or the building control body who approved the installation - they will be able to provide documents evidencing this information. You can also go on the Homeowners area of the FENSA website to re-order certificates for a small fee.
FENSA-compliant Door And Window Installations From Harveys Windows
The best way to be sure that your replacement doors and windows are compliant with UK safety and quality requirements is to work with a FENSA scheme member, such as Harveys Windows. This gives you confidence in the standards of both your doors and windows themselves and the installation, and you’ll be provided with your FENSA certificate (either for doors or windows as appropriate) and supporting documentation on completion.
Having a doors and windows installer that is a FENSA scheme member like Harvey’s Windows means that you’ll have a proven and compliant standard installed and you’ll be provided with the certificate of confirmation.
Find Out More
Harvey’s Windows are on-hand to install high quality windows and doors of all sizes and styles, and we ensure that they’ll be compliant with all standards including FENSA. Double glazed windows start from around £750 and composite doors start from around £1200. For up-to-date prices or to request a bespoke quote, please get in touch today, or visit our Leicester showroom to see our current availability on all styles of doors and windows.
