TRADERS and DIY enthusiasts in County Durham have been urged to acquaint themselves with new laws aimed at cutting energy loss from windows and doors.
Changes to Building Regulations introduced on April 1, mean that anyone who installs replacement windows and doors will have to comply with strict thermal performance standards to reduce energy loss. Prospective house buyers will be able to ask for evidence that replacement glazing installed after April this year adheres to the new rules.
Durham County Council's consumer services regulations head, Philip Holman, said the rules applied when a frame was removed from a building or a replacement window or door was installed.
He said: "If the work is done by an installation company, then you can ensure it is a member of Fensa - the Fenestration Self Assessment Scheme.
"This means the trader self- certifies that the work complies with building regulations and provides a certificate to the home owner.
"Where the installer is not registered to self-certify, or the work is done as a DIY project, full local authority approval under building regulations will be required.
Details of building regulations requirements and Fensa scheme members are available from district council building control departments.
More information about Fensa can be found on the Glass and Glazing Federation website at www.ggf.org.uk
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