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Window Fitters want to be licensed

from "UK Landlord" magazine, March 2007

A leading supplier of replacement doors and windows is calling for contractors in the glazing sector to be licensed.

Martindales state that at least two thirds of replacement window and door fitters are "cowboys" and are creating danger in homes by incorrectly fitting doors and windows at the wrong heights or using the wrong glass.

UK Building Regulations state that windows must comply with rules laid out in a joint government and industry self assessment scheme, FENSA, the Fenestration Self Assessment Scheme.

This relates primarily to levels of insulation, but also to the type and quality of glass and frames. The glazing industry is calling for greater affiliation by installers to the FENSA scheme, and a licensing system to be established similar to the gas installation industry's CORGI scheme. This would require licences to be granted only after the completion of a recognised training course, the establishment of a credit rating, and confirmation that the people behind the business are financially stable.

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