Do council check windows thickness?

[jeeves]

Currently I have a wooden double glazed window in a bedroom.

The frame is rotten and I want to replace with a new frame and double glazed window from a DIY store.

I have been told that if I fit it myself then someone from the council needs to come down and check the glass is of the correct thickness, costing around £100 for the privilege.

I've never heard of this before and it seems bizarre. Is this true?

 

[oilman]

If you repair the frame then the council aren't interested.

 

[jeeves]

I don't suppose replacing it would count as a repair!!

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

I've never heard of this before and it seems bizarre. Is this true?

Its true, its to check your replacement window complies with building regs, this legislation has been around for a few years, replacing without approval may come up if you come to sell your house, its unlikely to be a dealbreaker though. Alternatively pay for an approved installer to supply and install it which would probably cost as much or more.

Take a look here: http://www.windowstoday.co.uk/document_l.htm

where you'll find this:

The Self-Assessment Scheme is referred to as F.E.N.S.A. - Fenestration Self Assessment Scheme. If your contractor is registered with the FENSA self-certification scheme, that contractor may certify that the work complies with the relevant regulations and you will not need to notify the council.

If the retailer is not a member of a Self-Assessment Scheme or the householder is carrying out the work (DIY?) then they will be required to pay for the building regulations application - check with your local council for costs. The time taken to obtain approval will depend on the local authority concerned.

 

[jeeves]

Thanks very much, that's very helpful

 

[joe-90]

Just go ahead and do it. Who is going to argue about when a window was installed? If it's treated or painted they last for 30 years. No one will ever notice.

 

[noseall]

use 'k' glass.