UPVC window replacement questions:

confused_landlord

So, was just wondering if anyone could advise me on the most cost effective way/company to replace old wooden windows with upvc windows.

Some people suggest purchasing new upvc windows off the internet and getting some builder to install it. Is this still a valid tactic bearing in mind apparantly you need to get some kind of certificate from the council approving the works which makes me wonder if it's a rather specialist job?

Also, since I am considering selling the property soon, I'm wondering if (in your opinion) the new windows will enable me to make more profit on the property sale or if I should just let the new owners sort it out.

Sorry to be a board hog.

McKneff

bearing in mind the time involved buying the windows off the internet, possibly get it wrong, messing about etc. etc. why not just get 3 quotes from local companies for quotes for supply and fit.

Why not get an estate agent and value the house now and ask them what it would be worth with full double glazing.

You can only judge when you have figures to be honest.

dimbo61

You need a FENSA registered window installer to fit the new UPVC windows.
You also need the agreement of your tenant ?
I assume this is for your rental property.
The first thing a solicitor will ask is have you got the FENSA certificate !!!!
Double glazing will make a huge difference to the look of the property and may increase your EPC rating, it also improves security and if you fit windows with fire escape openings ( right size and side opening ) you will show you are a good landlord who looks after his/her property.

Yorkie1

A neighbour of mine got his windows from a supply-only company. The measurements weren't quite right (the angles), and eventually he had to get another company in to fit it professionally as their additional knowledge of how to remedy the issue was required. So not a cheap option in the long-term.

I agree with McKneff's suggestion to get a few quotes to supply and fit as a complete job, if you decide to investigate further.

Re FENSA, this is not compulsory - but if you don't use a FENSA registered company then you will need to get the council out to do a Building Regs inspection / certificate. So, in practice, it's less hassle (and probably cheaper) to use a FENSA registered company.

cattie

It is extremely unlikely that you will see an increase in profit for having new double glazed windows. It will just make your house that bit more appealing to prospective buyers as it will be one less thing for them to have to worry about & pay out for.

Strapped

With our last house, we got consistent feedback from viewers that they had concerns about the wooden windows, so we took it off the market, got new windows/doors, fascias etc - can't remember the exact cost, but it was a few grand (4 bed house) and sold for £15k more than the offer we previously got. We got quotes from a number of companies and ended up using a small local firm of people who had all left one of the big national firms. FENSA registered. They were excellent.

leveller2911

dimbo61 wrote: »

You need a FENSA registered window installer to fit the new UPVC windows.

Sorry but thats not correct.You don't need to use A fensa registered company/tradesman to fit ne Upvc windows or doors. The work can be carried out by any competant person, ie tradesman/or DIY er.All they need to do is carry out the work via the Building notice scheme run by the local authority.

Basically you fill out a simple form,they charge a fee and they will inspect the work carried out to make sure the work complies with the Building regulations. Its a very easy/simple scheme so no need for FENSA.

The first thing a solicitor will ask is have you got the FENSA certificate
!!!!


QUOTE]

He/She will ask for proof the work carried out conforms to building regs so either FENSA,CERTASS or Building notice.

confused_landlord

Strapped wrote: »

With our last house, we got consistent feedback from viewers that they had concerns about the wooden windows, so we took it off the market, got new windows/doors, fascias etc - can't remember the exact cost, but it was a few grand (4 bed house) and sold for £15k more than the offer we previously got. We got quotes from a number of companies and ended up using a small local firm of people who had all left one of the big national firms. FENSA registered. They were excellent.

Where are you based? If you are anywhere near London would you mind PM'ing me the details of the company you used?