Homeowners may not be aware that there are building regulations that apply to the replacement of windows and doors. In this article, you will learn what you need to know and how to comply with building regulations for replacing windows and doors.
What are the building regulations for windows and doors?
As the homeowner, it is your responsibility to register any replacement window and door installations with your local council. Installing double glazing without building regulation approval is illegal.
Furthermore, when you decide to sell or remortgage your home, the buyer’s solicitors will require a copy of the building regulation certificate to finalise the transaction.
When replacing glazed windows, roof lights, and doors that contain more than 50% glazing in your home, you must comply with current Part L of the Building Regulations.
If you do not have a building regulation certificate for your installation, your local authority may require you to modify or remove it.
How do you get a building regulation certificate for windows and doors?
The easiest way to get a building regulation certificate for new windows and doors, such as sliding doors, bifolding doors, and French doors, is to have them installed by a company approved under the government’s Competent Persons Scheme.
Competent Person Schemes offer an alternative to Building Control, allowing installers to demonstrate their compliance with the required Part L Building Regulation Standards.
An installer registered with a scheme will register the installation, providing proof that their work meets building standards. This registration is essential, as solicitors can look it up when you sell your home.
After the installation is completed, the installer must provide you with a building regulation certificate, which proves that the work complies with building regulations and is registered with your local council.
It’s important to note that the self-certification scheme does not cover certain projects, such as new conservatories, unheated porches, loft conversions, property extensions, new builds, or repairs that do not involve the frame, commercial properties, or listed buildings. New homes, extensions, and conservatories or orangeries require planning permission and must comply with additional building regulations.
How do I know if my installer is approved through a Competent Persons Scheme and will meet building regulations?
To check the installer’s credentials, you can use the company search function available on the Assure, FENSA, and CERTASS websites. Always ask your installer to confirm which scheme they belong to and ensure they will provide you with the Building Control certificate.
There are currently three Competent Persons Scheme providers: Assure, FENSA and CERTASS.
All of these schemes serve the same purpose: they certify that the installation meets current building regulations, and they are all UKAS* accredited certification schemes in accordance with government legislation.
*UKAS (the United Kingdom Accreditation Service) is the appointment by the government to assess organisations that provide certification, testing, inspection, and assessment services.
The benefits of using an installer certified by a Competent Persons Scheme
- It saves you the time and the money needed to meet Building Regulations
- Someone to turn to if there is an issue with the installation
- Insurance-backed warranties and complaints procedures
Grandview Home Improvements installations comply with current building regulations
You can trust that Grandview Home Improvements fully complies with the Part L Building Regulation Standards for replacement windows and doors. Our certification by Assure guarantees that our products and services are compliant, and you can easily verify this compliance by visiting their website.
Beyond simply meeting the necessary building regulations, we take pride in going the extra mile to provide our customers with superior installation and exceptional service.
Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to delivering high-quality work, ensuring that every project not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
We prioritise your satisfaction and strive to enhance the energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal of your home with our top-of-the-line products from the leading British and European brands.
Contact us today to discuss your project.
