A Guide to Trade Bodies and Organisations related to the double glazing industry

Jargon Buster - A Guide to Trade Bodies and Organisations related to the double glazing industry.

Some are purely trade associations whilst others are more focused on protecting the consumer rather than the company - offering everything from guarantees to arbitration services should the need arise. They will often have their own codes of conduct and standards that continued membership relies on adhering to.

But what do they all mean and what or who exactly to they protect? Here's a round up of the more common ones you're likely to come across when comparing quotes from double glazing companies.

FENSA - usually followed by a membership number:
FENSA stands for the Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme and was set up by the GGF (more on them below). One of the advantages of using a FENSA registered company is that when having new windows fitted, a FENSA registered company will be able to issue the required thermal performance certificate of compliance (energy rating certificate). FENSA is there to protect the homeowner.

GGF - Glass & Glazing Federation:
A trade association which represents companies who make, supply or fit glass and glass related products. GGF members are required to protect homeowners deposits. Members work to a code of practice - their conduct is monitored and regulated and your finished installation will comply with the Building Regulations. The GGF also provides a free conciliation service should a company and homeowner fail to settle any grievance.

BBA:
Recognised throughout the construction industry, providing information on the performance of construction materials and products.
Specifically - the BBA issue Agrèment Certificates which assess the competency of a company to install products acceptable to building regulations, councils and insurers alike.

Fairtrades - A multi trade association which helps members via increased marketing and awareness:
The homeowner benefits from using a quality company which adheres to the values of the Fairtrades Homeowner's Charter which expects it members to demonstrate the highest levels of customer service etc.

Trustmark - A not for profit organisation supported by the Government:
The badge reads "Government Endorsed Standards" - It means a firms skills have been independently checked through regular on-site inspections as well as checks having been made on their trading record and financial status. It's also supported by the building industry and consumer protection groups.

Secure by Design - Police initiative themed on designing out crime:
Products must have passed Secure by Design test standards. With an emphasis on home security and products standing up to intruders attempts to gain access. In the case of window and door design, this will cover areas like hinge protection as well as the locks themselves and the overall design of the window or door.

Energy Saving Trust - An organisation set up to help everybody use energy efficiently with the aim of reducing carbon emissions:
Working in collaboration with companies to help them engage customers and employees to save energy and recycle waste. With particular reference to housing and building professions, providing technical guidance and solutions to design, build and refurbish properties to a high level of energy efficiency.

FMB - Federation of Master Builders:
Promotes members as dependable, quality builders and tradespeople. It is the largest trade association in the UK building industry. They have their own complaint resolution service for the benefit of members and members customers.

CPA - Consumer Protection Association:
Another reliable contractor service - the CPA makes finding a safe, reliable contractor easier - its members are all fully vetted professional trades to ensure "impeccable standards of best practice are maintained". They offer their own guarantees and protection services for homeowners and tradesmen alike.

BS British Standards - the 'Kite Marks':
We've all seen the Kite Marks on everyday goods. There are specific BS Standards that refer to the build, strength, safety, security and thermal qualities of windows, doors and conservatories etc.
Most Kite Marks refer to the original manufacture of the frame or lock and not necessarily the installation company, although there are now BS standards for installation too.

Many of the trade associations listed above have membership fees which companies must renew annually. In addition, they may carry out independent checks and reviews that a particular member is upholding standards. Some like the CPA do carry out customer satisfaction surveys, the results of which may be published by the company or the CPA themselves.

At the end of the day, it is up to you - the homeowner - to satisfy yourself that the company you wish to engage to provide your home improvement is reliable and will do what it has agreed to. Whilst trade associations can help prove the 'worthiness' of a company, you may feel that speaking with previous customers or viewing work already carried out locally by a company is a good idea.

The WindowQuoter website provides the first step to re-assurance by giving you an online guide price for the work you want doing. You'll also get the opportunity to view first-hand feedback from other homeowners who've used companies local to you, to help you decide whether they're the right company for you and your home.