When replacing windows or doors in your home, it’s not just about choosing the right style or energy rating, it’s also about ensuring the work meets legal building standards. That’s where a Competent Persons Scheme (CPS) comes in. At ARC Glazing, we’re proud to be certified by CERTASS, a government-approved CPS, to give you peace of mind from start to finish.
In this article, we explain what a Competent Persons Scheme is, why certification matters, and what to expect when working with a certified installer like us.
What Is a Competent Persons Scheme?
Introduced by the UK Government, a Competent Persons Scheme allows approved companies to self-certify that their work complies with building regulations without the need for an inspection from a local building control officer.
This is especially important for replacement windows and doors, which must meet strict criteria for thermal performance, fire safety, ventilation, and security.
Why You Need a Compliance Certificate
By law, all replacement glazing in domestic properties must meet building regulations. After installation, you need a compliance certificate to prove that your new windows or doors comply. Many people mistakenly refer to this as a “FENSA certificate,” but in reality, this certificate can be issued by any CPS provider, such as CERTASS or FENSA.
Here’s what that means for you:
If your installer is registered with a CPS (like CERTASS), you’ll receive your compliance certificate automatically (usually within 4 weeks). If you don’t have one, you’ll need to pay for a building control inspection or arrange indemnity insurance when you sell the property.
Why We Choose CERTASS
At Arc Glazing Ltd, we’re a proud CERTASS-registered installer. As part of our certification:
-
Our company, surveyors, and installers have passed formal assessments.
-
Installers are tested on current building regulations.
-
Site visits are carried out to confirm compliance and workmanship.
-
We provide an insurance-backed guarantee for added protection.
This means you benefit from a professional service that’s independently checked and legally compliant without any unnecessary stress or added costs.
What’s Covered by a CPS (And What Isn’t)?
Covered:
-
Direct replacement windows and doors
-
Brickwork removal below a window (e.g. converting to a doorway)
-
Domestic properties only
Not Covered:
-
New openings (e.g. where a window is added where there wasn’t one before)
-
Extensions or new-build properties
-
Conservatories and porches (usually, check with your local authority)
-
Repairs, adjustments or modifications
If your project falls outside of the CPS scope, building control will need to inspect and certify it.
CERTASS vs FENSA – What’s the Difference?
Both CERTASS and FENSA are government-authorised schemes that do the same job:
-
Vet installers
-
Certify glazing installations
-
Issue Compliance Certificates
The only real difference is branding and visibility. FENSA is more widely recognised due to greater marketing, but both offer the same legal protection. We’ve chosen CERTASS because of its clear standards, robust auditing process, and added consumer protection features.
Added Benefits of CERTASS
Choosing a CERTASS-certified installer like Arc Glazing Ltd also comes with extra protections:
-
Insurance-Backed Guarantees : We offer insurance-backed guarantees through QANW, which protect your installation, even if the installer ceases trading.
-
Consumer Code : CERTASS members adhere to a strict consumer code of conduct, ensuring fairness, transparency, and a commitment to quality.
-
Dispute Resolution : In the unlikely event of a dispute, CERTASS offers a cost-effective alternative dispute resolution service, avoiding the need for legal proceedings.
In Summary
Working with a CPS-certified installer like Arc Glazing Ltd means your window or door replacement:
-
Meets Building Regulations
-
Comes with proper certification
-
Avoids unnecessary inspection fees
-
Is protected by guarantees and consumer rights
-
Supports a smooth property sale in the future
We’re always here to help guide you through the process, answer your questions, and deliver the highest standards from survey to installation. Contact us today to learn more about our CERTASS-certified glazing services or to request a quote for your next project.