With winter fast approaching, and memories of the last big freeze still on everybody’s mind, it’s safe to say that nobody in Gloucestershire, Wiltshire or Oxfordshire needs to be persuaded about the benefits of double glazing. In terms of warmth, energy efficiency and sheer ability to deal with British weather, double glazing is a necessity, rather than a luxury.

At the same time, it’s also safe to say that double glazing companies have had something of an image problem in the past. New or replacement windows are a major purchase, so you need to know you’re in safe hands before you part with your cash. Here are three things you must consider before choosing a double glazing company.

1. Does the company have professional registration?

Everybody has heard the horror stories about rogue traders and pushy salesmen. Fortunately, the industry has taken steps to combat the cowboys, and there are a number of organisations dedicated to maintaining professional ethics and standards. So the first thing you should ask is whether the double glazing firm you’re considering has some sort of professional registration.

Names to look out for include The Conservatory Association, The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) and FENSA. Check out the company’s website and literature. Does it have a logo for one or more of these organisations? If you can’t see that they’re registered, ask. No reputable double glazing firm will mind you asking this question.

Membership of a professional body tells you that the company is serious enough to sign up to a code of practice. It can be expected to do business in a responsible and ethical manner. It also helps you to find a company in the first place. If you log on to the FENSA website, you can type in your location, and find all the FENSA registered double glazing companies in Cirencester or Gloucester, for example.

2. Is the firm a member of the Double Glazing and Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS)?

Following on from the first point, look out for accreditation with the Ombudsman Scheme. This provides access to independent mediators and inspectors, a legally binding dispute resolution service, a compensation scheme and full guarantees from deposit to final installation. Again, if you can’t see that the company is Ombudsman-accredited, ask them.

3. Does the double glazing firm provide a complete level of service?

Finally, does the firm provide a comprehensive level of service from start to finish? Some firms supply and some firms instal, and ideally you want one that does both. A firm that can survey, measure, quote, supply and instal your double glazing is a firm that fully understands your needs.

Follow these three tips, and you can buy your double glazing and replacement windows with complete peace of mind.