The Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme is introducing shorter six and two year registration options for members, in addition to its current standard of 10 years.
Chief executive Faisal Hussain explains the thought-process behind the decision: “Under Competent Person Scheme requirements installers must provide six years’ financial protection for consumers when replacing windows and doors. And some Competent Person Schemes also only require six years’ consumer protection.
“As an industry, we have always offered 10 years as standard, and this could be an unnecessary expense. We want to give our members the option to provide either a new standard six-year registration or a 10-year ‘added value’ registration. Consumers would still have free access to all our services, under the six and two year options, which includes our advice line, mediation and access to the Ombudsman.
“The new two-year registration level is specifically designed for smaller jobs such as replacement handles, locks or individual units, where a 10-year guarantee is neither needed nor required.
“By offering different registration levels, we are reducing the financial burden on installers at a time when companies have to compete for every penny earned, and when costs are increasing. Installers can still meet their legal requirements towards their customers but can do it at a more accessible price point, something that we believe will appeal to medium sized businesses, in particular. As it stands, the 10-year package is still vital for companies who are FENSA members to match their requirements on guarantees.”
installers.dgcos.org.uk
