Double glazing customers will have a much simpler, hassle-free process to lodge complaints, after The Glazing Ombudsman Scheme was opened for the window industry.

The industry watchdog will oversee the replacement of windows and doors, conservatories and roofline products.

The Glazing Ombudsman Scheme will work in conjunction with the Property Ombudsman, which has been providing a service for 20 years.

It will remain independent from its members, meaning a free and fair review of all disputes between customers and double glazing suppliers on the scheme.

As such, The Glazing Ombudsman (TGO) will be accountable to an independent council.

The Glass and Glazing Federation and FENSA will sponsor the scheme, in an effort to provide financial stability. However, a low fee for registered members will maintain sufficient funds.

There will be a number of introductions to the Code of Practice, which will leave customers at ease and safe in the knowledge that they?re getting what they paid for.

Double glazed windows will reduce heat loss in your home and keep bills down. But still, they?re a serious investment and something that?s not considered lightly.

Therefore, there must be a fair and clear Contract of Sale, Work in Progress Insurance and several other additions to prove the commitment of service.

Complaints to the Ombudsman could potentially be rewarded with ?25,000. Of course this amount could be refused and the complaint taken through the courts.

Complaints can only be made to the TGO if the glazing has been supplied or fitted by a company on their system.

Christopher Hamer, who has been leading the Property Ombudsman since 2006, will take charge of the TGO.

Hamer has also been involved in many other Ombudsman services, including the Personal Investment Authority Ombudsman Bureau.

Therefore, he brings a lot of experience to the TGO as it looks to establish itself at the top of the glazing industry.

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