The scheme is not government backed and is a promotional tool used by window providers
The Window Scrappage Scheme is a promotional tool used by window installers(Image credit: Getty Images)
You may have seen or had phone calls regarding the Window Scrappage Scheme and wondered whether you should use it.
The scheme offers to save you money by replacing your old windows with new double and triple-glazed windows.
However, we reveal why this is not the case and why you should proceed with caution if you are considering using this 'scheme'.
What is the Window Scrappage Scheme?
The Window Scrappage Scheme is a promotion run by double and triple-glazing providers that offers to scrap your old uPVC window frames and replace them with new eco-friendly windows.
Companies claim the decision could save you money, potentially in the thousands, and many also say the frames will be recycled.
However, the window scrappage scheme is not government-backed, despite what many have been led to believe. It is in fact, a company-led scheme.
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The prices and services offered vary between providers, but all claim to recycle the old window frames and save at least £1,000 by taking up the offer.
Anglian Home Improvements say on their website: "The Anglian Scrappage Scheme helps you to recycle your old windows and doors in return for average savings of £1,000† off new ones professionally installed by us."
Meanwhile, KLIC Home Improvements goes one further by offering a 'Window & Door Recycling Scrappage Scheme', which they claim it could offer a saving "up to £2500 on the cost of their new windows and doors" when replacing old ones.
Window companies claim they will recycle your old windows rather than just putting them on landfill sites(Image credit: Getty Images)
Should you take up the Window Scrappage Scheme?
As the Window Scrappage Scheme is not a government-regulated scheme what is offered can sometimes be misleading.
The claim that you will save potentially thousands is dubious as despite double or triple glazing saving money on your energy bills companies could be charging you more than you should be paying.
Also, there is no reason why you cannot fit your own glazing and recycle your window yourself as almost all uPVC windows can be recycled at your local recycling centre, although this would require you to remove your window frame yourself.
However, if you want to avoid this hassle you can go to providers, but proceed with caution if they mention they are providing you a saving through the Window Scrappage Scheme.
Homebuilding & Renovating has approached Anglian Home Improvements KLIC Home Improvements for comment.
News Editor Joseph has previously written for Today’s Media and Chambers & Partners, focusing on news for conveyancers and industry professionals. Joseph has just started his own self build project, building his own home on his family’s farm with planning permission for a timber frame, three-bedroom house in a one-acre field. The foundation work has already begun and he hopes to have the home built in the next year. Prior to this he renovated his family's home as well as doing several DIY projects, including installing a shower, building sheds, and livestock fences and shelters for the farm’s animals. Outside of homebuilding, Joseph loves rugby and has written for Rugby World, the world’s largest rugby magazine.
