The Wharf: Home Front – July 5, 2007

Q. I am thinking about replacing the windows and doors in my cottage, are there any regulations I should be aware of?

A. On April 1^st 2002 new regulations came into force for installing replacement windows and doors. Standards in thermal insulation now have to be met and a certificate issued as proof. This is supplied by the council’s building control officers and, like obtaining planning permission for any building work carried out at the property, will be needed to sell your property. With 1.2 million installations of double glazing a year the task of checking each one would be over whelming for building control. To help this situation the replacement window industry has created FENSA (Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme). This scheme regulates double glazing companies and certifies their installations, It is preferable and I would highly recommend that you appoint a company regulated by FENSA. Consequently from 1^st April 2002, all replacement windows and doors need to be double glazed to meet the new requirements, have a FENSA certificate, or have approval through the building regulations.

“I have known Dawn in a professional capacity for a very long time, as we used to work together for a number of years. She has a comprehensive knowledge of the Docklands real estate market, but this is not her strongest point. What makes Dawn stand out as an agent is the effort she puts into every deal, the relationships she builds with everyone and the passion she has for what she does. Dawn and Gabriella have been managing my investment property for more than 3 years. I now live overseas and I feel so comfortable knowing they are really looking after my interest, whilst at the same time always being fair and transparent with the tenants. Nothing is big enough job for those ladies and everytime I say ‘thank you – I am so grateful for what you do’, the reply is ‘It’s my job’. I really cannot recommend this wonderful team enough!”

Daniela WeatherillOverseas Landlord

“We are incredibly happy with the service that Dawn Sandoval Residential provide. They offer a personal but very professional service, and we feel secure and confident with their management which is key when letting out a property.”

Amy Facey

“Dawn Sandoval Residential and associates have managed several transactions on our behalf, and each time they have gone above and beyond our expectations. We trust the team highly, and I honestly couldn’t recommend them enough.”

Neil Chinniah

“The Dawn Sandoval Residential team took the time to properly understand what I was looking for. At every stage of the process, I knew they were doing their best for me and valued me as a customer. I have no hesitation in recommending their services in the highest possible terms.”

Andrew Simmonds – Management Consultant

“Dawn Sandoval Residential offer a real personal service. Their response rates are excellent, and we have a sense that they care about our tenants and properties. We cannot recommend them highly enough.”

Cathy & Paul Betts

“Dawn Sandoval Residential have great insights into the property market in London and especially around Canary Wharf. They work very hard to understand their clients’ requirements, and we would highly recommend them.”

David & Ginette Marks