What is a FENSA certificate? What does it cover? and why do I need it?

FENSA is a government authorised Competent Person Scheme for the replacement of windows, doors, roof windows and roof lights in England and Wales.

It is a self-assessment scheme set up by the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF). The organisation’s prime function is to regulate double glazing companies and ensure compliance with Building Regulations.

What does a FENSA certificate cover?

A FENSA certificate covers the REPLACEMENT of external windows, doors, roof windows and roof lights against the relevant Building Regulations in domestic properties on the original foot print of the property where the use or size of rooms have not been altered.

When is a FENSA certificate required?

FENSA certificates are only required for REPLACEMENT windows and doors installed since 1st April 2002.

When is a FENSA certificate not required?

A FENSA certificate is not needed when windows and doors are being installed into:

  • New builds,
  • Extensions,
  • Conservatories,
  • Orangeries,
  • Conversions of any type e.g. barn conversion,
  • Commercial premises,
  • Listed buildings,
  • External porches,
  • Detached garages,
  • Sheds,
  • Caravans,
  • Mobile homes,
  • and any repair work.

Why you need a FENSA certificate

✔ Confirms compliance with building regulations
✔ Shows your installation’s energy efficient
✔ Ensures it’s registered with the Local Council – a legal requirement
✔ Verifies your installer’s guarantee is insured
✔ Essential when selling the property
✔ Proof of a job done right

Why should you use a FENSA authorised installer?

Your installer, if not dealing with Building Control, needs to legally be a member of a government authorised Competent Persons Scheme (CPS) such as FENSA.

As a FENSA approved installer, your installer will be assessed regularly by FENSA to ensure its high standards and commitment to excellence is continually maintained.

A FENSA approved installer will also make sure their installs comply with building regulations and meet energy efficiency guidelines.

Insurance backed guarantees and deposit protection

FENSA installers are required to have a number of protections in place to take care of their customers, including an insurance backed guarantee on all replacement windows and doors. If you pay a deposit prior to installation, the deposit must be protected by an indemnity scheme or some other form of protection.

When will I receive my FENSA certificate?

You will receive your FENSA certificate through the post a couple weeks after your install has been completed. Proof of a job done right.

Why do I need to keep my FENSA Certificate?

It is important to keep this safe in your records because if you choose to sell your home in the future the buyers solicitor will request a copy.


A FENSA certificate is a declaration by the installation company to the homeowner that the windows and doors they have replaced:

✔ Comply with Building regulations
✔ Use energy efficient products
✔ Are registered with the local council

A FENSA certificate also:

✔ Verifies that the warranty is insured
✔ Is essential when selling the property
✔ Is proof the work is professional

To learn more about FENSA visit www.fensa.org.uk

Aspect Windows (Western) Ltd FENSA registered number = 12290