Understanding FENSA Certificates: Essential for Selling Your Property

What is a FENSA Certificate?

FENSA stands for the Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme. Established in April 2002, FENSA ensures that replacement windows and doors comply with current building regulations in England and Wales. This certificate confirms that your double-glazed windows, doors, or roof lights meet specific thermal performance standards and that the installers are competent and comply with building regulations.

How Long Does a FENSA Certificate Last?

A FENSA certificate is valid for as long as the windows and doors it certifies remain in place. It is tied to the property rather than the individual, providing a continuous record that the installations were completed in accordance with the required standards.

Do I Need a FENSA Certificate?

Yes, a FENSA certificate is essential if you have replaced windows or doors since 1st April 2002. This certificate demonstrates that your installations comply with legal requirements, which is critical when selling your property. Without a FENSA certificate, you may face several challenges:

Importance in Property Sales

During the conveyancing process, conveyancers will request all relevant certificates, including the FENSA certificate, through standard inquiry forms. These certificates assure buyers that the property meets building regulations. Without them, the sale process can be delayed as additional checks are required.

Legal Implications

It is illegal to install double glazing without complying with building regulations. Selling a property without the necessary certificates can lead to fines and potential prosecution. Ensuring compliance protects you from these legal issues and facilitates a smoother sale process.

What Happens if You Don't Have a FENSA Certificate

If you find yourself without a FENSA certificate, your property is not unsellable, but you will need to take extra steps:

Retrospective Building Regulation Compliance Certificate: Apply to your local authority for this certificate, which can cost between £300-£400 and take time to process.

Indemnity Insurance: If the work was completed over a year ago, you might obtain indemnity insurance to cover potential costs related to non-compliance.

Without these measures, local authorities can enforce corrective actions on non-compliant installations, potentially delaying the sale of your property.

How to Obtain a FENSA Certificate

Always ensure that your window and door installer is a member of the FENSA scheme. After completing the installation, the installer will provide you with a FENSA certificate. If you misplace this certificate, you can request a replacement from the FENSA website for a small fee.

How to Check if Your Property Has a FENSA Certificate

To verify whether your property (or a property you’re interested in) has a FENSA certificate, visit the FENSA website. You can check using the house number and postcode, though there is a fee of £25 for this service.

Haybrook is Here to Help

Navigating property regulations, like obtaining a FENSA certificate, is vital to ensuring a smooth sale. Always ensure your installer is FENSA-registered to avoid future hassles. Contact us today or visit your local branch to see how we can assist you with all your property needs.