Do You Need a FENSA Certificate for New Windows?

If you’re getting new windows fitted, you’ve probably heard about FENSA certificates and wondered what they are and whether you need one. We get a lot of questions on this topic, which is understandable because the guidance isn’t always straightforward.

Here’s the simple answer: you can have new windows fitted without a FENSA certificate, but you still need to prove the work complies with Building Regulations. That’s not optional.

FENSA is the easiest way to get that proof. When a FENSA-registered installer fits your windows, you automatically get a certificate showing everything meets the required standards. No FENSA? Then you’ll need to apply for building control approval separately, which adds time and cost.

Additional implications come when windows are fitted with no compliance certification at all. This happens more often than it should, and it causes issues when you come to sell your property.

We’ll explain what FENSA is, when you need a certificate, and why it’s the compliance itself – not just the piece of paper – that really matters.

What Is a FENSA Certificate?

FENSA stands for Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme. It’s a government-authorised scheme that allows registered installers to self-certify that their window and door installations comply with Building Regulations.

When a FENSA registered installer fits your new windows, they issue you with a certificate proving the work meets the required standards for thermal efficiency, ventilation, safety and structural integrity. This certificate is registered with your local authority, creating an official record of the compliant work.

Think of it as proof that your new windows were installed properly and meet all legal requirements – without you needing to involve building control directly.

When Do You Need a FENSA Certificate?

You need a FENSA certificate (or equivalent proof of Building Regulations compliance) whenever you:

• Replace existing windows or doorsin your home with new ones, whether like-for-like or changing the style
• Install new windows or doorswhere there weren’t any before
• Make significant alterationsto existing window openings affecting structural integrity or thermal performance

When Is a FENSA Certificate Not Required?

Repairs and maintenance that don’t involve replacing the entire window unit don’t require certification. Just replacing broken glass or fixing hinges is fine without FENSA.

Listed buildings often require Listed Building Consent instead, though you’ll still need Building Regulations compliance through building control.

Scotland and Northern Ireland have different systems. Scotland doesn’t use FENSA at all – you’ll go through building control instead.

What Happens Without Proper Certification

Some homeowners question whether they need to bother with a FENSA certificate. Here’s why you absolutely should make sure you get a FENSA certificate for your new windows and doors.

When You Sell Your Home

This is the big one. When you sell, your solicitor will ask for proof that all replacement windows (installed since 2002) comply with Building Regulations. No FENSA certificate means no proof of compliance.

Your options at that point aren’t appealing:

1. Pay for a retrospective building control inspection
2. Take out indemnity insurance
3. Reduce your asking price to account for the compliance issue

We’ve seen missing FENSA certificates delay house sales by weeks or, in extreme cases, cause sales to fall through entirely. It’s not worth the risk.

Insurance and Energy Efficiency

If you need to make an insurance claim for damage involving non-compliant windows, your insurer could refuse to pay out or reduce your settlement. Insurers have a right to question whether building work meets legal standards, and non-compliance can invalidate claims.

FENSA compliance also ensures your windows meet minimum thermal efficiency standards. Non-compliant windows could be costing you more than necessary on heating bills, particularly during winter. The regulations also cover important safety requirements, like toughened glass in certain locations and proper ventilation to prevent condensation and damp.

What If You’ve Had Windows Fitted Without FENSA?

If you’ve already had windows installed without FENSA certification, don’t panic. You have options:

Contact your local Building Control department for a retrospective inspection. If the windows meet standards, you’ll get a compliance certificate. If not, you may need remedial work. Expect to pay £300-£500 or more.

Check if the installer used an alternative scheme like CERTASS or Stroma Certification. These provide equivalent certificates.

Consider indemnity insurance as a last resort if the original installer can’t be tracked down and building control won’t certify the work retrospectively. This typically costs £100-£300 but doesn’t prove compliance – it just insures against future issues.

Prevention is far better than cure. Always use a registered installer from the start.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I check if an installer is FENSA registered?

Yes, visit the FENSA website and use their installer search tool. You can search by company name or postcode. Always do this before committing to an installer.

What if I lose my FENSA certificate?

Contact FENSA directly with your property details and installation date. They can issue a replacement certificate for a small fee (around £50). Keep it with your important home documents.

Do I need a new FENSA certificate if I replace my windows again?

Yes, each time you replace windows or doors, you need a new certificate for that work. If you’ve had multiple replacements over the years, you’ll need documentation for each one when selling.

Are FENSA regulations the same across the UK?

No. FENSA applies in England and Wales only. Scotland uses building warrant applications instead. Northern Ireland has its own system. For our customers in Lincolnshire, a FENSA is exactly what is needed.

Getting It Right from the Start

Getting a FENSA certificate is straightforward when you use a registered installer – it’s just part of the service. Be sure to ask the right questions before you commit.

If you’re planning new windows or doors for your Lincolnshire home, we handle all the FENSA certification as standard. Visit our showroom in Dunston or call us for a free quote.