If you’re getting new windows or doors, there’s a lot to think about; style, cost, who’s installing it. But what often gets overlooked is whether the work is legally compliant and properly insured.  

Making sure the installation meets Building Regulations isn’t just a formality, it protects you and your home. That’s why choosing an installer who is Certass-registered is so important.  

So, what exactly is Certass? 

Certass is a UK government-authorised certification body for window and door installers. It operates a Competent Person Scheme, which allows registered installers to self-certify that their work complies with all relevant Building Regulations. This means you don’t have to wait for a council inspection as your installer can confirm that the job meets the necessary standards. 

Becoming Certass-registered isn’t automatic. Installers are vetted to ensure they meet both technical and financial standards. This gives homeowners confidence that the work is carried out by professionals who really know their trade. 

Is Certass accreditation really that important? 

Short answer; yes, it is important! Using a Certass-registered installer provides peace of mind in several ways: 

Compliance certificate 

After your windows or doors are installed, you’ll get a certificate showing the work meets Building Regulations. This is useful for your own records and essential if you ever sell your home. 

Insurance-backed guarantee 

Certass certification includes an insurance-backed guarantee. If the installer goes out of business, your work is still protected. 

Confidence in quality 

The certification process ensures that the installer has the right technical skills and financial stability. You can trust that the work meets industry standards. 

Is Birmingham Glass Certass-registered? 

Yes, we are. At Birmingham Glass, every installation is registered with Certass. That means you get all your documents without having to chase anyone, and you can be confident the work meets Building Regulations. 

What if a company isn’t Certass-registered? 

Not all installers are Certass or FENSA certified, and many cheaper quotes come from unregistered tradespeople. Working with them can be risky: 

  • The work may not comply with Building Regulations, which could cause issues when selling your home or during future renovations. 
  • There is no insurance-backed guarantee if something goes wrong, leaving you responsible for fixing errors at your own cost. 
  • Poor installation can lead to long-term problems, such as leaks, drafts, or security issues, which may be expensive to correct. 

Always check registration before agreeing to any work. It’s a small step that can prevent much bigger problems further down the line. 

How the process works 

Certass operates under the Competent Person Scheme, and the process is straightforward for homeowners: 

  1. The installer completes the work according to Building Regulations. 
  2. They register the job with Certass. 
  3. You receive a certificate of compliance and confirmation of the insurance-backed guarantee. 

This system saves time and money by avoiding the need for a separate council inspection, while still ensuring that your installation is up to standard. It’s a reliable way to have professional work done without unnecessary delays or complications. 

Final thoughts 

Certass certification might not be something you think about when getting new windows or doors, but it’s worth paying attention to. It guarantees that the work is compliant, provides a certificate for your records, and includes insurance-backed protection. 

  

Choose Birmingham Glass for your next window or door installation and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with Certass-registered, fully compliant, and insured work.