Certass vs FENSA: Which Accreditation Matters Most for Your Window and Door Installation? (Lucent Glazing Guide)

When you’re investing in new windows or doors for your home, peace of mind is just as important as the products themselves. That’s why choosing an accredited installer is essential—ensuring your project meets all legal, safety, and quality standards. In the UK, the two most recognised accreditations are Certass and FENSA. But what do these certifications mean, how do they differ, and why has Certass become a leader in the industry? At Lucent Glazing, we’re proud to be Certass-accredited, and we’re here to help you make the best choice for your home.
What Are Certass and FENSA?
Both Certass and FENSA are government-approved Competent Person Schemes. Their main role is to ensure window and door installations comply with UK building regulations. This protects homeowners, ensures energy efficiency, and provides vital documentation for future property sales.
FENSA (Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme):
Launched in 2002, FENSA is a household name in replacement window and door certification. It focuses on verifying that installations meet building regulations, primarily in England and Wales. Installers are assessed regularly, and homeowners receive a FENSA certificate as proof of compliance and insurance-backed guarantees.
Certass:
Certass is another UKAS-accredited Competent Person Scheme. It covers a broader range of home improvement work, including not just windows and doors but also insulation and roof lights. Certass members, like Lucent Glazing, undergo regular audits and must meet strict standards for installation quality and customer service. Homeowners receive a Certass certificate and deposit protection, ensuring both compliance and financial security.
Why Are These Accreditations Important?
1. Legal Compliance:
Both Certass and FENSA ensure your installation meets building regulations. This is essential for safety, energy efficiency, and legal resale of your property.
2. Quality Assurance:
Installers are independently audited for workmanship and professionalism, so you can trust their expertise.
3. Insurance-Backed Guarantees:
Both schemes provide insurance-backed guarantees, protecting your investment if the installer ceases trading.
4. Essential Documentation:
When you sell your home, you’ll need proof that any window or door replacements comply with building regulations. Both Certass and FENSA certificates are accepted by solicitors and conveyancers.
Certass vs FENSA: What’s the Difference?
While both schemes offer similar protections, there are important differences that can affect your choice:
Scope of Work:
Certass covers a wider range of home improvements, making it ideal for customers planning multiple projects or future upgrades.
- Audit Frequency and Rigor: Certass is known for more regular and thorough audits, ensuring ongoing high standards for both installation and customer service.
- Deposit Protection: Certass offers robust deposit protection, giving you extra peace of mind from the moment you book your installation with Lucent Glazing.
- Speed and Convenience: Certass certification is often quicker, as it allows trusted installers to self-certify their work, reducing delays and paperwork for homeowners.
- Customer Service Focus: Certass places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction, with clear processes for feedback and dispute resolution.
Why Has Certass Become a Leader?
In recent years, Certass has grown rapidly in popularity among both installers and homeowners. Here’s why:
- Broader Coverage: Certass isn’t just for windows and doors—it also covers roof lights, insulation, and more. This is ideal for homeowners looking to future-proof their properties.
- Regular Independent Audits: Certass members are subject to frequent, independent inspections, ensuring quality and compliance on every project.
- Deposit and Workmanship Protection: Homeowners are protected from the moment they pay a deposit, right through to completion and beyond.
- Customer-First Approach: Certass places customer satisfaction at the heart of its scheme, with transparent processes and clear communication.
Why Lucent Glazing Chooses Certass

At Lucent Glazing, we’re committed to delivering the highest standards of quality and service. That’s why we’re proud to be Certass-accredited. Here’s what that means for you:
- Expert Installation: Our team is regularly audited and trained to meet the latest industry standards.
- Peace of Mind: Your deposit and installation are protected, and you’ll receive a Certass certificate for your records.
- Hassle-Free Process: We handle all the paperwork and compliance, so you can focus on enjoying your home’s transformation.
- Local Trust: As a trusted installer in Leeds and West Yorkshire, Lucent Glazing has built a reputation for quality, reliability, and customer care.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a Certass or FENSA certificate to sell my house?
Yes. When you sell your home, you’ll need proof that any window or door replacements comply with building regulations. Both Certass and FENSA certificates are accepted by solicitors and conveyancers.
- Can I choose my installer based on their accreditation?
Absolutely! Always ask for proof of Certass or FENSA membership before hiring an installer. You can check Lucent Glazing’s credentials on the Certass website.
- What if I lose my certificate?
Replacement certificates can be requested directly from Certass or FENSA for a small fee.
The Lucent Glazing Difference
Choosing Lucent Glazing means choosing a company that puts your needs first. From your initial consultation to final inspection, we’re with you every step of the way. Our Certass accreditation is your guarantee of quality, compliance, and customer care.

Conclusion
Both Certass and FENSA offer strong protections for homeowners, but Certass’s broader coverage, regular audits, and robust customer protections make it a standout choice for today’s home improvements. With Lucent Glazing, you’re not just getting new windows or doors—you’re getting peace of mind, quality assurance, and a team that puts your satisfaction first.
Ready to upgrade your home? Contact Lucent Glazing today for a free, no-obligation consultation and discover the Certass difference for yourself.
Email: info@lucentglazing.com
Phone: 0113 418 0855