HOUSEHOLDERS in Bury have been warned of the need to meet strict new legal requirements when it comes to replacement glazing in their homes.

From April 2002, anyone who installs replacement windows or doors will have to comply with strict thermal performance standards.

A short period of grace will operate for contracts signed by March 31, 2002, as long as the work is completed before July 1, 2002. But this does not apply to DIY work.

The move follows a change in the building regulations to bring all replacement glazing within its scope.

Bury Council's executive member for environment and transport, Councillor Stella Smith, said: "One of the main reasons for the change is the need to reduce energy loss.

"The building regulations have controlled glazing in new buildings for many years, but they represent only a very small percentage of the total building stock. The feeling now is that it is essential to improve the performance of the much larger numbers of existing buildings, if we are to meet increasingly stringent national and global energy saving targets."

She explained that if householders wanted to sell their property at some future date, they would need to give evidence that any replacement glazing installed after April 2002 complies with the new building regulations.

Under the new rules there will be two ways to prove compliance.

The first is with a certificate showing that the work has been done by an installer who is registered under the FENSA Scheme. Alternatively, a certificate can be supplied from the local authority saying that the installation was approved under the Building Regulations.

Coun Smith added: "Any installation done by a firm which is not registered to self-certify, or done as a DIY project by a householder, will need full local authority approval under the building regulations. We also carry a list of all the approved installers in our area, which will mean it will be possible to identify unauthorised work very easily."

The houseowner is deemed ultimately responsible for ensuring the work complies with the building regulations.

Householders are therefore being urged to ensure that, before they sign a contract to buy replacement glazing, they ask whether the installer is able to self-certify.

If not, an application should be made to the council for approval under the building regulations and pay any relevant charges.

Further information is available from John Jones on 0161-253-5279 or alternatively contact the Glass and Glazing Federation at their website www.ggf.org.uk