Selling your home can be a daunting task. There’s a lot to think about and a lot of paperwork to get in order.
Estate agents will require a whole variety of documentation regarding a property when it comes to selling, including evidence that many of its features are safe. Among the paperwork you’ll require to sell your home is a FENSA certificate.
If you’ve purchased or sold a property before, you’ll probably know what a FENSA certificate is. But if not, or you need a reminder, the team here at Bridgewater Glass has put together a handy guide to the document, outlining everything you need to know about it.
What is a FENSA certificate?
The FENSA scheme was introduced in 2002 by the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) as a way for companies and consumers to easily understand whether their home’s windows and glass meet new industry standards. More than 20 years on, and the Fenestration Self Assessment Scheme has become the go-to accreditation in the industry in regards to quality windows.
Windows, doors and roof windows that hold a FENSA certificate meet industry standards and are safe to use.
Can I sell my house without a FENSA certificate?
In short, no. It’s not possible to sell your house if you don’t have a FENSA certificate. Any windows that have been in place since the regulations changed in 2002 must have an accompanying FENSA certificate. This is to demonstrate that the windows are compliant with building regulations, are of a good quality and have been installed by a competent and qualified person.
It’s illegal to have double glazing installed without the correct certifications, and there are hefty fines and even prosecution if building regulations are not adhered to.
If you’ve lost or misplaced your FENSA certificate, you can get in touch with FENSA online who should be able to replace it for you at a small cost.
In addition to this, you can contact your local authority for a Retrospective Building Regulation Compliance Certificate. However, this will cost you between £300-£400 and can take a while to organise.
How long is a FENSA certificate valid for?
A FENSA certificate is attached to a property rather than a person, so when selling your home you’ll give it to the new owner when you leave.
The certificate lasts as long as the windows and doors, so it varies from property to property. If you decide to get your windows replaced, you’ll require a new FENSA certificate.
How to get a FENSA certificate
When having new windows or doors installed, you should always make sure you choose a company or contractor that is a member of the FENSA scheme. The importance of using a trusted company cannot be underestimated, and once the work has been completed you’ll be presented with your FENSA certificate.
A FENSA certificate will confirm the following:
- The installation complies with building regulations
- All windows and doors are energy efficient
- The work has been conducted to the highest professional standards
- The guarantee is insured
- The work is registered with the local council (this is a legal requirement)
- Mention of future buyers requiring the FENSA certificate should you sell the property
At Bridgewater Glass, we’ve worked as Watford’s leading glass and glazing experts for more than 75 years. As FENSA registered contractors, when you call upon our services, you can rest assured you’re receiving the highest standard of work that meets all of the industry’s building regulations.
To find out more about our range of services, get in touch with Bridgewater Glass today.
