A Fensa Certificate proves that a replacement window or door installation satisfies the Building Regulations standards for thermal performance, safety, and ventilation in a building in England or Wales. The Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme, often known as Fensa, is a government-approved programme that keeps track of adherence to these rules.
After the installation, the homeowner receives the Fensa Certificate, which Fensa, an impartial third-party certification agency, issues. It offers proof that the work was completed to a high degree and by the building codes. This certificate is crucial because potential buyers or mortgage lenders might need it when the property is sold or refinanced.
Can you give me specific examples of Competent Persons Certificates?
Yes. If you have external windows, external doors including windows, roof windows and roof lights you should obtain a FENSA Certificate. This is evidence that you have complied with Building Regulations in respect of the windows at the property being sold. It also means that energy efficient products have been used. And finally it means that the work done has been registered with the Local Authority.
What work does a FENSA not cover?
IIt does not cover conservatories, porches, new builds or extensions, (building regulations approval and a completion certificate is required for those) and repairs. The frame is not included.
In other words if the new windows are linked to other work is a FENSA certificate required.
No. But Building Regulations and and Completion Certificate are needed.
In the case of internal doors with glass or internal windows within the property being sold is there a requirement to have a FENSA Certificate?
No.
Can all window installers provide FENSA Certificates?
No. The window installer must be an approved FENSA installer.
What are the consequences of failing to obtain a FENSA?
The owner of the property concerned should contact a Building Inspector at the Local Authority to get the work approved if possible.
Can issues be created on the sale of the property by a lack of a FENSA certificate for windows?
It could do. Though often in practice the matter is resolved by obtaining an Indemnity(Insurance) Policy against Local Authority enforcement. That only covers though the issue of enforcement. It does not cover whether the windows are adequate in the first place. If a Building Inspector is approached then an Indemnity Policy cannot be obtained.
What are the consequences of failing to obtain a FENSA?
At the end of the A please add BEFORE APPROACHING THE LOCAL AUTHORITY PLEASE CONSIDER WHETHER IT MIGHT INVALIDATE AN INDEMNITY POLICY. SEE BELOW.
Are there any other Certificates that you can get in relation to windows installed at a property?
Yes. There are also Certass Certifcates. They are identical to FENSA Certificates in all respects. In each case the Certificate issued is referred to as a Building Regulations Compliance Certificate- (BRCC).
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