What is a FENSA Certificate and do I need one to sell my property?
A FENSA Certificate proves that replacement windows or doors in a property comply with UK Building Regulations. It confirms that the work was completed by a registered installer and meets energy efficiency and safety standards. Sellers must provide a valid certificate to show compliance when selling a home, as missing documentation can delay the conveyancing process.
What Is a FENSA Certificate?
FENSA stands for the Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme, launched in April 2002 to monitor compliance with building regulations for window and door installations.
A FENSA Certificate shows that:
- The installation meets required thermal performance standards.
- The work complies with Building Regulations.
- The installer is a competent person approved by FENSA.
Essentially, it provides official confirmation that the installation was completed to legal standards and reported to the local authority.
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How long does a FENSA Certificate last?
A FENSA certificate lasts as long as the doors and windows it covers, so it stays with a property, not a person. It demonstrates that the doors and windows in your property were installed correctly.
Why do you need a FENSA Certificate?
If you replace windows or doors in England or Wales after 1 April 2002, you must have either:
- A FENSA Certificate, or
- A Building Regulations Compliance Certificate issued by the local authority.
Without one, you may face delays, additional costs, or enforcement action when selling your property. Non-compliance can also lead to fines or require remedial work to meet legal standards.
How to get a FENSA Certificate
When choosing an installer, always ensure they are FENSA-registered. After completion, they will register the work with FENSA, who will issue your certificate.
If you lose your copy, you can request a new one from FENSA’s website at a small cost.
How to check if a property has a FENSA Certificate
You can check whether a property has a valid FENSA Certificate by entering its house number and postcode on the FENSA website. The service costs £25.
What happens if you don’t have a FENSA Certificate?
You can still sell your property, but additional steps may be required to satisfy legal and buyer requirements:
1. Apply for a Retrospective Building Regulation Compliance Certificate.
- Issued by your local authority for work completed without certification.
- Typically costs £300–£400 and may take several weeks.
2. Take out Indemnity Insurance
- Covers potential costs if a future issue arises with the installation.
- Available if the work was done more than a year ago.
3. Confirm details through Conveyancing Searches
- Solicitors can request records showing when and how the installation took place.
Although it is not an offense to buy or sell a home that is ‘non-compliant’ with the building regulations it can cause delays as the doors and windows must be checked and certified before the sale can complete. A local authority can order someone to fix any non-compliant work done on a property.
What does a FENSA Certificate mean for buyers and sellers?
During conveyancing, solicitors will ask for copies of key compliance documents, including the FENSA Certificate.
- For buyers, it ensures that windows and doors meet current standards.
- For sellers, it speeds up the transaction and avoids the need for retrospective paperwork or insurance.