Question Author
Thanks all. In January 2012, we used a window fitter who advertised locally, and stated in his quote and paperwork he was FENSA, Trust Mark, Fairtrades etc. covered. Before we decided to use him, we checked the FENSA website for approved fitters. He was on the FENSA website at that time, and the work (replacement front door/window frame) was carried out. We became concerned after an incident and decided to check with the relevant bodies, only to be told he was either no longer a member or never had been a member of those organisations, even though he was on FENSA's list of approved companies. Apparently, he had failed to renew his FENSA membership this year, but their website showed his company was a member at the time the work was completed, when he was actually not and was only removed a few days ago. So, having taken all the precautions to check for an approved fitter, it looks now that we have NO 10-year insurance-backed guarantee or certificate issued by FENSA, as promised in his quote. When we raised the matter with FENSA, the only advice we were given was to contact our local Building Control department, which we have.
Surely, the minute a company fails to renew, they should be automatically removed from their list of members? It would certainly have prevented us from falling into this situation.
So, take heed people, and investigate a little further before assuming these websites are right up to date and your potential installer is as 'approved' as he claims. Believe me, these organisations aren't exactly jumping to assist us. In fact, FENSA have left us to sort this out ourselves!
Bloody annoyed,
Simon