What Is FENSA?

FENSA (Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme) is a government-authorised scheme that allows registered installers to self-certify that replacement windows, doors, roof windows, and roof lights comply with building regulations. When a FENSA-registered installer fits replacement glazing, they notify the local authority on your behalf and issue a FENSA certificate confirming compliance.

Why Do Buyers Need a FENSA Certificate?

Since April 2002, replacement windows and doors in England and Wales have been required to comply with building regulations relating to thermal performance and safety glazing. A FENSA certificate (or equivalent) is the standard way of demonstrating that this requirement has been met. Without it, buyers' solicitors will typically raise an enquiry — and if the certificate cannot be produced, indemnity insurance may be required.

• Replacement glazing installed since April 2002 must comply with building regulations
• A FENSA certificate is the standard proof of compliance
• Missing certificates will be flagged by the buyer's solicitor as an enquiry
• Indemnity insurance may be required if the certificate cannot be located

How to Check Whether You Have a FENSA Certificate

If you have the original paperwork from when the windows or doors were installed, the FENSA certificate should be included. If you cannot locate it, you can check whether your property has a FENSA registration by searching the FENSA database at fensa.org.uk using your postcode and address. Replacement certificates can be ordered directly from FENSA for a small fee.

• Check your original installation paperwork for the FENSA certificate
• Search the FENSA database at fensa.org.uk using your postcode
• Replacement certificates can be ordered from FENSA for approximately £25
• Allow a few days for the replacement certificate to be issued

What If the Installer Was Not FENSA-Registered?

Not all installers are FENSA-registered. Some use alternative schemes such as CERTASS, which is also government-authorised and equally acceptable. If the installer used neither scheme, they should have applied for building regulations approval from the local authority directly. In this case, you would need a building regulations completion certificate from the local authority rather than a FENSA certificate.

What If No Certificate Exists?

If no certificate exists and the work cannot be retrospectively certified, indemnity insurance is the most common solution. This is a one-off insurance policy that protects the buyer against the risk of the local authority taking enforcement action. Your solicitor can arrange this. It is relatively inexpensive and is a widely accepted resolution to missing glazing certificates.

• Indemnity insurance is available where no certificate exists
• It is a one-off policy — not an ongoing premium
• Costs are typically £30–£100 depending on the property and insurer
• Your solicitor will arrange this as part of the conveyancing process
• Do not contact the local authority about the missing certificate — this can invalidate indemnity insurance

What to Do Next

Check whether you have FENSA certificates for any replacement windows or doors installed since April 2002. If you cannot locate them, search the FENSA database at fensa.org.uk. If no record exists, discuss indemnity insurance options with your solicitor before marketing begins — it is much easier to resolve this in advance than during a live transaction.