Does FENSA cover newly created window re building regs?

[Elizabeth54]

I'm trying to find out whether FENSA applies to newly created apertures (in the weight-bearing side wall of the house). On their website they say it's a replacement window scheme, and my new window isn't a replacement., it's totally new.

The builders say I don't need to apply for building regs consent myself, presumably on the basis of their FENSA registration. I can't find them on the Competent Person Scheme, by the way, so they don't qualify by that route.

I would like to find out the position asap, as the work isn't quite completed and now would be the ideal time to get the Building Inspector to pop out and look, before it's all plastered over, if their FENSA registration doesn't cover the situation.

(Incidentally, because of the particular position the window is in, planning permission isn't needed.)

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

Fensa does not cover new windows only replacement, it will say so on their website somewhere. So your BCO will need to inspect them. Your builder is wrong.

 

[wessex101]

As Freddie said. The competent person scheme using FENSA only covers the actual window, so they can self certify the U value, need for safety glass etc.

It will not cover a new structural opening or any structural alterations to an existing window opening.

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

As Freddie said. The competent person scheme using FENSA only covers the actual window, so they can self certify the U value, need for safety glass etc.

AFAIK Fensa does not cover anything with respect to new build - the window or the opening. They just supply the spec sheet for the window for BC to glance at if he's that bothered.

 

[^woody^]

The builders say I don't need to apply for building regs consent myself, presumably on the basis of their FENSA registration

They are wrong - either out of negligence or deceit.

The forming of the opening, means of support of the wall above and damp/weather proofing and air tightness, is controlled work and will require an application for building regulations approval. The window replacement schemes only cover the frame fitting, and there is no self certification scheme for the structural work.

I would get that firm to pay for the application, and be responsible for the work complying. And make sure you get a completion certificate from the council for the work (with its own reference number), and not just a copy of the FENSA certificate.

 

[Nakajo]

Where would the window have to be for planning permission to be needed?

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

Where would the window have to be for planning permission to be needed?

If they didn't meet the criteria necessary to make them PD.

 

[Nakajo]

...for example...

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

If the house is listed.
If the original planning permission restricted new windows.
If the proposed new window is on an upper floor, side elevation, clear glazed and lower than 1.7m above FL.
If the house resides in an area which has had restrictions applied because of an Article 4 Direction.
I expect there are others.

 

[Nakajo]

So, basically where there are no PD rights.

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

Everything needs Planning Permission when PD rights do not allow it. Have you taken one of Woody's stupid pills?

 

[^woody^]

Everything

I've got some chill pills I could pop in an envelope if you like.

 

[Nakajo]

I think you're missing the point.

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

Do you have a point?

 

[Nakajo]

I'm going to let you carry on digging.