Double Glazing Standards

Since April 2002 replacement glazing has been regulated by the standard UK building regulations.

This means any new or replacement windows or doors must comply with the safety and thermal insulation standards set out in the double glazing regulations.

Fortunately for most replacement double glazing installations it is possible for registered installation glazers or companies to self certify that their work complies with the building regulations, rather than need to go through full local authority approval.

These companies are have to be preregistered and if you are considering using a company to replace your double glazing, you should check they are able to self-certify that their work complies with the Building Regulations. (If you have had replace windows fitted, when you come to sell you may be asked for a certificate to confirm compliance).

This self certification scheme is known as FENSA (Fenestration Self-Assessment), which was set up by the Glass and Glazing Federation, and a sample of the installations of self certify registered installers is checked each year to ensure they are compliant.

If the installation is done as a DIY project or by a company that is not registered it will need to go through full local authority approval, and the house owner is ultimately responsible for ensuring the glazing complies with the Building Regulations.