What are the Building Regulations for UPVC Double Glazed Windows & Doors in the UK?
Nowadays new or replacement windows & doors have to meet certain standards which are set out under the UK Building regulations. Covering key areas such as:
- Energy Efficiency – Conservation of fuel & power in dwellings
- Ventilation – Means of Ventilation
- Glazing Safety – Glazing safety in relation to impact
- Fire Safety – Escape in the event of fire
DIY Installation
If you undertake the work yourself, then you will need to apply locally to get building regulations approval. This will involve time and expense (Something which you are presumably trying to keep to a minimum by going DIY in the first place).
So, if you are considering getting UPVC Double Glazed Windows & Doors and fitting them yourself, then it’s only really advisable if you have a high level of skill & knowledge in this area.
Badly fitted windows & doors will lose heat, create condensation and let in the cold. In general, be less energy efficient than they could be.
This will be shown on the property Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Every UK home for sale or rent must have an EPC. The EPC will grade your home for energy efficiency and show its’ estimated costs of energy for heating. A poor rating may make your home less desirable or even lower the resale value.
Professional Double Glazed Windows & Doors Installation – the benefits
Although considered initially costlier, it can pay long term dividends to have the installation of your new UPVC Double Glazed Windows & Doors done by professionals.
There is a government approved competent person scheme that allows companies “self-certify” that installation is “up to code” for this type of building work.
As mentioned, the primary competent person’s schemes are authorised. Th authorisation is from the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG). They are in charge of authorising competent person schemes.
Two of the most prominent trade bodies for self-certification in the double glazing industry are FENSA and CERTASS.
Benefits of using an accredited installer.
To use a certified contractor or company is to be able to have the confidence that they have themselves been independently assessed to meet Minimum technical competence requirements (MTC).
That in itself is a good enough reason. However, the ability to self-certify will also ensure that the product that is installed, and work undertaken, is of a good standard. You will have no need to get involved with the time & cost of dealing local planning department in order to organise your own inspections & approvals.
UK wide coverage from certified double glazing installers, with access to the most competitive prices on an extensive product & feature range.
Useful Links
To give you some idea of what home improvement works need planning permission & building regulations approval you can find a very helpful interactive guide here on the planning portal website.
- www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission
- www.planningportal.gov.uk/doorswindows
- www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/responsibilities
- https://www.gov.uk/buy-sell-your-home/energy-performance-certificates
Warranties & Guarantees:
All professional, and well reputed, installers will offer guarantees on both the product and the work undertaken.
Where deposits are asked for (up front) there will also be insurance backed deposit guarantees available.
Warranties on the work will vary from company to company. It’s advisable to establish at outset exactly what is covered.
In summary
The need to comply with the latest rules & regulations regarding building control can sometimes make even the smallest of home improvements (replacing a window for example) a general headache. It can also be time consuming, and costly, if you fall foul of some regulation or other and have to redress any issues.
- Here are some tips when buying uPVC Windows.
- Still confused – see this article
In our opinion, the best option for long term peace of mind is to use trade accredited professionals to do the job. This way, all the building regulation compliance is taken care of for you.
- If you are considering refurbishing, then you can get free quotes for UPVC Double Glazed Windows & Doors here:
