If you’re replacing your front door, you may have heard that you’ll need a FENSA certificate. However, when it comes to composite doors, the answer isn’t always straightforward.
Whether a FENSA or CERTASS certificate is required depends largely on the design of the door and the amount of glazing involved in the installation.
What Is a FENSA Certificate?
A FENSA certificate is evidence that replacement windows and certain doors have been installed in accordance with current Building Regulations.
Installers registered with a Competent Person Scheme, such as FENSA or CERTASS, can self-certify qualifying installations without the need for a separate Building Control inspection.
The certificate provides reassurance that the installation complies with the relevant regulations and is often requested when selling a property.
💡Check out our detailed guide: Common misconceptions of a FENSA certificate
Does Every Composite Door Require a FENSA Certificate?
No.
A common misconception is that all replacement external doors require certification. In reality, many composite door installations do not require a FENSA or CERTASS certificate.
As a general rule, certification becomes relevant when the replacement door contains a significant amount of glazing, typically where the door is more than 50% glazed or forms part of a larger glazed installation.
Examples may include:
- Composite doors with large glazed panels
- Fully glazed entrance doors
- French doors
- Patio doors
- Stable Doors
A largely solid composite front door with minimal glazing often falls outside these requirements.
Why Does the Amount of Glazing Matter?
The Building Regulations place particular emphasis on glazed elements because they affect:
- Thermal performance
- Safety glazing requirements
- Means of escape
- Energy efficiency standards
Where glazing forms a substantial part of the installation, compliance with these requirements becomes more significant, which is why certification may be required.
What If My Composite Door Doesn’t Require Certification?
Even where a FENSA or CERTASS certificate is not required, it remains important that the installation is carried out correctly.
A quality installation should still consider:
- Weather performance
- Security
- Structural fixing methods
- Appropriate sealing and insulation
- Manufacturer installation guidelines
Choosing an experienced installer remains just as important as the certification itself.
What Happens When I Sell My House?
Solicitors often ask for documentation relating to replacement windows and doors.
If your composite door installation required certification, having the appropriate FENSA or CERTASS certificate can help avoid delays during the conveyancing process.
If certification was not required due to the nature of the installation, your installer should still be able to explain why no certificate was issued.
FENSA vs CERTASS
FENSA and CERTASS are both Government-authorised Competent Person Schemes.
For homeowners, there is little practical difference between the two. Both allow approved installers to certify qualifying installations and demonstrate compliance with Building Regulations.
At Keystone Glazing, we are CERTASS registered and can advise whether a proposed composite door installation requires certification.
Unsure Whether Your New Door Requires Certification?
Every installation is different.
Factors such as glazing, side panels, frame alterations and the overall design of the entrance can all affect whether certification is required.
If you’re planning a new composite door installation in Chichester, Bognor Regis, Selsey or the surrounding areas, our team will be happy to explain the requirements and provide honest, professional advice.
Need Expert Advice?
Contact Keystone Glazing for a free quotation and guidance on choosing the right composite door for your home.
