Replacing Windows In The Home
The following notes apply to replacement windows of
exactly the same dimensions as the existing.
From 1st April 2002, all replacement glazing
came within the control of the Building Regulations.
From that date, anyone who installs replacement window frames or
glazed doors must comply with the thermal and safety performance
standards as set by the Building Regulations.
The main reason for the change is the need to reduce heat loss
and consequently energy used in the home and help to meet
increasingly stringent national and global energy saving
targets.
You should bear in mind the Building Regulations also prohibits
any building work that makes the altered building worse than it
already is therefore existing openable window sizes should not be
reduced as this could effect the means of escape in case of fire
and the degree of ventilation.
However the replacement of broken glass (or a 'failed' or
'misty' double glazing unit) within an existing window frame or the
repair of part of an existing (timber) frame remains uncontrolled
"repair work".
What Happens When You Come To Sell Or Remortgage Your
Property?
When the time comes to sell (or remortgage) your property, your
(mortgage lender) purchaser's solicitors will ask for evidence that
any replacement glazing installed after April 2002 complies with
the new Building Regulations.
There are 2 ways to prove compliance : -
1. Provide a certificate showing that the work has been done by
an installer who is registered under the FENSA or
CERTASS schemes.
OR
2. Provide a Completion Certificate or Regularisation
Certificate from the local authority stating that the
installation complies with the Building Regulations.
If you intend to install replacement windows and the installer
is not FENSA or CERTASS registered then you
should apply to the Local authority to check the
installation of the windows. You will need to complete and
submit a Building Notice
Application Form at least 48 hours prior to the commencement of
the works with the appropriate fee obtained from schedule
3.
If the windows have already been
installed you may still apply to the Council for a Regularisation
Certificate. This will require a Building Control Officer
to visit the premises to determine whether or not the window
installation is satisfactory. The fee for this will be charged
at 120% of the normal fee applicable from schedule
3.
Should you require any further
information please contact Harlow Building Control on 01279 446859
or 446827.
Application Forms and Fee Schedules are obtainable
from the web site, The Civic Centre, The Water Gardens,
Harlow or contact Building Control on 01279 446827
or 6859. Fees are payablle with the application by
post or at the
Civic Centre.
Contact Harlow
The Water Gardens
Harlow, Essex
CM20 1WG
Telephone: (01279) 446655