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When installing or replacing windows and doors in the UK, ensuring compliance with building regulations is crucial. Certification schemes like FENSA, CERTASS, and Assure play a pivotal role in this process. They not only verify that installations meet legal standards but also provide homeowners with confidence in the quality and safety of the work performed.
FENSA
Launched in 2002, FENSA (Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme) is a government-authorized scheme that monitors building regulation compliance for replacement windows and doors. FENSA focuses specifically on these installations, ensuring they are energy-efficient and registered with the local council. Homeowners receive a FENSA certificate upon completion, which is essential when selling the property. FENSA-approved installers undergo regular assessments to maintain high standards, providing peace of mind to homeowners regarding the quality and legality of the work.
CERTASS
Established in 2006, Certass is a UKAS-accredited certification body authorized by the government. It offers a Competent Person Scheme, allowing installers to self-certify that their work complies with building regulations. Certass covers a broad spectrum of building fabric work, including windows, doors, conservatories, and roof lights. Members benefit from regular audits, technical support, and access to dispute resolution services. For homeowners, choosing a Certass-certified installer ensures that the installation is compliant, energy-efficient, and registered with the local council.
Assure
Assure Certification is a UKAS-accredited Competent Person Scheme authorized by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. It covers the replacement of windows, roof windows, roof lights, and doors in England and Wales. Assure offers installers the ability to self-certify compliance with building regulations, access to energy rating labels, and technical support. For homeowners, using an Assure-certified installer means the installation complies with legal standards, and they receive a certificate confirming this compliance.
Key Differences Between Certass, FENSA, and Assure
- Scope of Certification: Certass and Assure offer broader certification covering various building improvements, including windows, doors, and conservatories. In contrast, FENSA focuses specifically on replacement windows and doors.
- Establishment: FENSA is the oldest, established in 2002, followed by Certass in 2006.
- Assessment Process: FENSA requires post-installation inspections on a sample of installations. Certass operates on a self-certification basis, supported by regular audits. Assure also allows self-certification with regular assessments to ensure compliance.
- Membership Benefits: Certass provides members with benefits like free listings on their ‘Find an Installer’ feature, technical advice, and access to legal support. FENSA offers benefits such as free listings, access to training academies, and discounts on business insurance. Assure provides self-certification, energy rating labels, and technical support.
Choosing the Right Certification
For homeowners, the certification held by an installer ensures that the work complies with building regulations and is registered with the local council. This compliance is crucial for property transactions and overall safety. While FENSA is widely recognized due to its longer presence, Certass and Assure offer comprehensive certifications with additional benefits. When selecting an installer, it’s essential to verify their certification and understand what it entails to ensure the best outcome for your installation project.
In conclusion, Certass, FENSA, and Assure are all reputable certification schemes that ensure window and door installations in the UK meet building regulations. Understanding their differences can help homeowners make informed decisions and ensure their properties are both compliant and energy-efficient.
