Why choose a FENSA installer

Always choose an approved window installer

FENSA stands for the Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme. It is an official government-authorised body in the UK that certifies the installation of windows and doors to comply with building regulations.

The scheme was created to help ensure that replacement windows, doors, and other glazing installations meet the required legal standards for safety, energy efficiency, and structural integrity.

In the UK, if you're replacing a door, it's best to use an installer registered as an approved FENSA installer, such as Select Window Systems. The scheme covers a wide range of glazing and door installations, including:

Windows in uPVC, timber or aluminium.
External doors, including front, kitchen, patio, and French doors.
Roof lights and skylights.
Certain conservatory and room extension glazing.

When registered installers complete work, they issue a FENSA certificate to the homeowner. This certificate acts as proof that the job was done in accordance with building regulations. It may be required when selling the property to prove that any glazing installations were carried out correctly.

You are likely to need a FENSA certificate for a replacement door:

1. If the door includes glazing, such as glass panels or a full-glass door like a patio door. The installation must comply with building regulations for glazing.
2. If you're replacing the door frame and this involves structural changes, an approved installer will ensure the work complies with building regulations.
3. If the replacement door is a front or back door to the property, the installation might require compliance with security, fire safety, or thermal insulation standards.

If you're replacing the door with a like-for-like door and there are no changes to the frame or glazing then it might not require a FENSA certificate. However, it's always a good idea to check with the installer, as they should be able to advise on the work being carried out.

If the installer isn't registered with FENSA or an equivalent body you could still apply for Building Regulation approval through your local council. However, that can be problematic and may require a formal inspection.

FENSA allows accredited installers to self-certify their installations without needing a formal inspection from the local council. This simplifies the process for both homeowners and installers. FENSA-registered installers typically offer guarantees for their work, providing peace of mind to the homeowner.

If you plan to sell the property in the future, having a FENSA certificate for any door or window replacements will show that any improvement work was done to the required standards.

To become FENSA-certified, installers must pass regular checks, adhere to quality standards, and ensure all work meets current building regulations. A homeowner can check whether an installer is registered on the FENSA website, but installers usually advertise any affiliation.

In addition to FENSA, there are several other government-approved schemes in the UK that can certify window and door installations. These schemes also ensure that installations meet the necessary building regulations. Here are the key equivalent schemes:

CERTASS (Certification Competence Scheme)
Like FENSA, Certass allows installers to self-certify their work, ensuring compliance with building regulations. Certass is recognised for installations in both domestic and commercial properties.

GGF (Glass and Glazing Federation)
The GGF is a trade body that runs its own certification schemes to cover installations of windows, doors, roof lights, and conservatories. GGF offers a consumer protection plan, along with guarantees for the installations.

BSI Kitemark (British Standards Institution)
The BSI is a certification mark for quality and safety. Although not specific to windows and doors, it is a recognised standard for ensuring that installations meet stringent safety, performance, and quality standards.

TrustMark
TrustMark is a government-endorsed scheme that covers a wide range of trades, including home improvement services like window and door installations. TrustMark offers consumer protection and reassurance that the installer is trustworthy and follows industry best practices.

Network VEKA
Network VEKA is a UK-wide trade association of independent installers who use VEKA window and door systems. The network is certified and ensures that installations meet or exceed required standards.

Made for Trade (MFT)
Made for Trade is a supplier and installer network that provides certification for its work, ensuring it meets building regulation standards for door and window replacements. MFT offers a bespoke approach with guaranteed quality and compliance.

Each of these schemes ensures replacement doors and windows are installed to meet safety, energy efficiency, and structural standards. Self-certifying schemes like FENSA and Certass mean you don't have to arrange for building control inspections, saving time and effort. Many of the schemes, such as TrustMark or GGF, offer consumer protection plans and guarantees, providing additional reassurance for homeowners.

In general, it's best to choose an installer who is registered with a scheme that is approved by the government. FENSA is the most widely recognised, but others like Certass and TrustMark are also well-regarded. It's important to verify your installer's credentials and ensure they are accredited by one of these recognised bodies so your installation meets the required legal standards.