How to choose a conservatory installer in the UK

A new conservatory can give your home extra living space, natural light and a better connection with your garden. However, the quality of the conservatory installation matters just as much as its design. Choosing the wrong company could leave you dealing with leaks, draughts or unexpected costs. 

At Advanced Glazing Systems, we’ve been helping homeowners across Essex and London improve their homes since 2004. While our service area is local, this guide applies UK-wide. If you’re comparing conservatory installers in the UK, here’s what we’d check before committing to a home improvement project. 

Check the installer’s accreditations

A conservatory accreditation can help you assess a company’s credentials, but it’s important to understand what each scheme covers. 

FENSA and CERTASS

FENSA and CERTASS are government-authorised competent person schemes covering eligible replacement glazing work in England and Wales. Registered installers can self-certify work covered by their scheme against relevant building regulations. 

However, FENSA registration doesn’t certify the whole conservatory installation. Ask your installer how building regulations will be addressed for your specific project and what certificates you’ll receive. 

We’re FENSA registered at Advanced Glazing Systems. You can see our other credentials on our accreditations page. 

Which? Trusted Traders

Which? describes itself as the UK’s consumer champion. Its Trusted Traders scheme assesses businesses before they can display its endorsement, making it another useful point of reference when comparing conservatory companies. 

We’re a Which? Trusted Trader, with customer feedback available through our reviews page. 

Top tip: Check an installer’s current registration directly with the relevant organisation. Don’t rely on a logo alone, and read recent customer reviews to understand how the company handles communication, installation and aftercare. 

Understand the guarantee

A written guarantee provides peace of mind, but check what’s covered rather than judging it by the number of years alone. 

Before signing, ask your conservatory installer: 

• What’s included? Check the cover for frames, glazing, the conservatory roof and workmanship. 

• Is it insurance-backed? Find out whether protection applies if the installer stops trading and read the policy terms. 

• Can it be transferred? This may be useful if you sell your home. 

• Who handles problems? Make sure you know how to contact the company after installation. 

We provide a 10-year guarantee on parts and labour for our windows, doors and conservatories. Our free insurance-backed guarantee applies to windows and doors, subject to its terms. You can find further details on our guarantees page. 

Compare conservatory styles and roof options

A good installer will ask how you intend to use the room before recommending a design. The different types of conservatory suit different homes, so consider your available space, budget and preferred style. 

We offer conservatories in styles including Victorian, Edwardian and lean-to designs, with uPVC and aluminium frame options. Double glazing comes as standard, helping support energy efficiency and year-round comfort. 

Your choice of conservatory roof also affects natural light, insulation and how comfortable the room feels throughout the year. 

Glass roofs

A glass roof maintains the traditional conservatory look and allows plenty of daylight into your living space. Ask about the type of glass, thermal performance, solar gain and ventilation, including whether roof vents are suitable. 

Explore our glazed roof options to see what’s available.

Tiled roofs

A tiled conservatory roof can create a more solid, extension-like feel. Modern lightweight systems can help regulate temperatures, depending on the specification and existing structure. Some offer slate-style finishes without the weight of traditional roofing materials. 

We install the Equinox tiled roof system, which offers seven tile styles and can often be fitted in around two days. If your existing conservatory is uncomfortable in summer or winter, a conservatory roof replacement may be worth considering, subject to an assessment of the existing structure. 

Roof lanterns and rooflights

For a larger glazed space, you could also consider an orangery. Our orangeries combine brickwork with a glazed roof, while roof lanterns and rooflights bring daylight into suitable roof designs. 

Look for good installation practice

The best local conservatory installers should explain the process clearly, provide a detailed quote and keep you informed throughout the work. 

Look for these signs of good practice: 

• A proper survey: The installer should assess the site, measurements, drainage and access before confirming the specification. 

• A clear quote: Check what’s included, from base layers and foundations to frames, glazing, roofing, electrics and finishing work. 

• Advice on permissions: Planning permission and building regulations are separate requirements. Some conservatories fall under permitted development and may be exempt from building regulations approval, depending on the design and circumstances. Rules differ across the UK, so check with your local planning authority and building control body before work begins. Our guide to conservatory planning permission explains the main considerations. 

• A plan for electrics: Decide where you’ll need lighting, heating and electrical sockets before work starts. Electrical work must meet applicable requirements. 

• One point of contact: You should know who to speak to during conservatory construction. 

• A proper handover: Ask which certificates, guarantees and maintenance instructions you’ll receive. 

Be wary of pressure to sign immediately, vague answers about costs or guarantees, and large deposits without clear documentation. Ask to see examples of completed work too. Our case studies and inspiration gallery show examples of our projects. 

How many quotes should I get for a conservatory?

We recommend comparing at least three written quotes where practical. Check that each includes the same key elements, such as the roof, glazing, foundations, installation and finishing work. The cheapest quote may not offer the best value if important work is excluded. 

Conservatory prices depend on the size, design, materials and amount of building work required. The average cost of a conservatory published online is only a guide, so a site survey and detailed specification will give you a more reliable price. 

The time of year may also affect installer availability and scheduling. Ask about lead times and how long the work is expected to take before agreeing to a start date. 

Frequently asked questions

Do I need planning permission for a conservatory?

Not always. Some conservatories fall under permitted development, depending on their size, height, position and the property. Listed buildings and homes in conservation areas may have additional restrictions. Check with your local planning authority before work begins. 

Do conservatories need building regulations approval?

Some conservatories are exempt from building regulations approval if they meet specific conditions, which can include limits on floor area, suitable glazing and separation from the house. Requirements vary across the UK and depend on the project, so check with your local building control body before work begins. 

Is FENSA enough when choosing a conservatory installer?

No. FENSA covers eligible replacement glazing work, not the whole conservatory installation. Check the company’s conservatory experience, guarantees, reviews and arrangements for any required approvals. 

How can I check customer reviews?

Read recent feedback on independent platforms and look for comments about communication, installation quality and aftercare. Consider how the company responds to complaints, and ask to see examples of completed work. 

Planning a conservatory in Essex or London?

Choosing a conservatory installer is about more than price. You want clear advice, a well-planned installation and support after the work is complete. 

At Advanced Glazing Systems, we’re a family-run local company serving Essex, London and the surrounding area. With more than 20 years of experience, we offer conservatories, roof replacements and glazing options designed around your home. 

Visit our Upminster showroom or book a video appointment to discuss your plans. 

If you’re looking for a local conservatory installer, contact us or call 01277 230101 for a free, no-obligation quote. We’ll help you explore your options and make an informed decision for your home.