We are often asked how to determine whether a double glazing installer is qualified or competent to do the work. So, while we’ve written many buying guides to help customers find their perfect doors and windows you also need to be sure that your installer has the skills to install your new doors and windows and comply with building regulations.
This article explains how a double glazing installer is qualified, and what questions and paperwork you need to ask for.
What qualifications does a double glazing installer need?
Not all homeowners are aware that for the installation of new and replacement windows and doors there are Building Regulations.
A window installer can self certify to comply with Building Regulations by joining a competent person scheme which are called FENSA, Certass and Assure. To join a competent person scheme the installer must meet certain entry criteria.
Minimal Technical Competencies, or MTC was introduced in September 2012 by the Department for Communities and Local Governments. MTC covers many trades as well as replacement windows, doors, roof windows or rooflights. Individual installers and door and window surveyors must be able to demonstrate that they have the ‘minimum technical competencies’ (MTCs) required to carry out correct window and door installations.  As a result, several card-based assessment schemes are designed to demonstrate MTC compliance.Â
The minimum standard homeowners can expect is NVQ Level 2 for installers and NVQ Level 3 for surveyors.
Since 2012 FENSA has operated MTCs, now mandatory for people surveying or installing windows and working for any fenestration-related business.
What are the double glazing installer qualifications
The first step to being certain of a qualified and professional installation is to speak to the installation company. All professional window companies will not hesitate to demonstrate their staff’s qualifications, if they will not, or skirt around the issue, go somewhere else.
Homeowners can check if their installer is registered as a compentent person for building regulations by going directly to FENSA , Certass, and Assure who all have consumer-friendly websites with lots of information. You can also find a competent person by postcode on the LABC website.
For added peace of mind, organisations have been set up with the relevant regulatory bodies and the Sector Skill Council to provide the double glazing installer qualifications to develop the skills required. In addition, a substantial number of industry experts are available throughout the development and consultation processes, ensuring the qualifications a double glazing installer has are meaningful, providing the individual with a valuable skill set, and providing the customer with a professional, safe, and secure installation.
The skills required range from residential window and door installations to advanced curtain walling, glass manufacturing, glass supporting structures, window and door fabrication, surveying, physical glazing, fenestration warehousing and distribution, manufacturing techniques, fire-resistant glazing and others.
GQA Qualifications in particular, offers over thirty types of relevant qualifications for the double glazing installer, those working in commercial glazing and other areas of the fenestration supply chain. These qualifications range from awards, certificates or diplomas. Some qualifications are information only, while others require the successful completion of practical tasks.
Whilst not an essential requirement, professional window firms can also opt to work to current British Standards, one being BS 8213-4:2016 Windows and doors. Code of practice for the survey and installation of windows and external doorsets.
Fitting doors and windows on construction sites
For fitting windows and doors on construction sites, the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) is a card-based scheme providing proof that window company staff working on construction sites have the appropriate training and qualifications.
Holding a CSCS card is not a legal requirement, although most construction firms and housebuilders usually require construction workers on their sites to hold a valid card. CSCS cards prove that construction site operatives have the required qualifications and training for their individual roles. The benefit of CSCS cards is an entire site workforce, whether a double glazing installer, electrician, groundwork or other construction site operative, are all qualified and the widespread adoption of these cards ensures high standards and safety on UK construction sites.
Government and other professional organisations
For homeowners looking to replace their windows or needing new glazing for a building project, other organisations are designed to provide peace of mind and demonstrate qualified double glazing installers and tradespeople. TrustMark Home Pro is the Government Endorsed Quality Scheme covering work carried out in the home. Many window companies will apply as a TrustMark Registered Business, vetted to meet required standards, with an additional commitment to honest trading, customer service and technical training.
You will also find organisations such as the Glass and Glazing Federation, Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme, FairTrades. Which? schemes and others. All of these are set up to provide a vetting and approval process and ensure your double glazing installer provides quality products, good service and a professional installation.
More help and advice choosing a professional double glazing installer
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