You can expect real consumer protection, with all members being thoroughly vetted to guarantee an exceptional service. DGCOS has helped thousands of consumers by recommending trusted and reputable double glazing installers.

When you choose a DGCOS member you are guaranteed high quality protection from initial contract, right through to installation and even throughout the lifetime of your product guarantee.

The DGCOS organisation provides free access to an independent, impartial Ombudsman who can investigate and provide legal redress to any complaints made.

The Ombudsman is completely independent and is given full authority to provide a dispute resolution service. He will investigate any complaint involving a member and any installation which took place during their membership.

The Ombudsman provides:

• An independent, free and impartial service to consumers
• A dispute service-without the need to go to court
• Fair and just decisions and actions – independent of both members and consumers.
• Financial awards for any loss, distress, inconvenience or breach of contract

The DGCOS promise genuine protection for the consumer so you can confidently purchase your order knowing that your home will be in safe hands.

All members are continually checked and vetted throughout their membership to ensure they are trading and working ethically. All members must provide consumers with a high level of service and satisfaction, upholding the DGCOS promise.

All customers are sent a Satisfaction Questionnaire and pre-paid envelope. All replies are entered into the DGCOS performance system where results are monitored. There is also an annual review of credit checks and public/employer liability instance.

DGCOS has a 12 point accreditation process in which every installer must meet before being offered the membership. Becoming a member of the DGCOS isn’t easy.

All Members Must As A Minimum:

• Undergo a five point credit and background history check
• Provide DGCOS with a minimum of 10 customer references from work carried out within the last 12 months and who can be independently approached
• Provide DGCOS with a minimum of 4 supplier references who can be independently approached
• Provide a copy of their current Health and Safety Policy
• Carry minimum insurances of: £2m Public Liability and £10m Employers Liability
• Provide every customer with a written contract
• Provide every customer with a written guarantee
• Provide every customer with Deposit Protection Insurance
• Provide every customer with an Insurance Backed Guarantee
• Every installation must comply with building control regulations
• Allow DGCOS Inspectors to inspect any installation
• Allow DGCOS to send every customer a Satisfaction Survey
• Submit to the legal jurisdiction of DGCOS and the Ombudsman

DGCOS provides an exceptionally high level of protection for consumers so when you choose a DGCOS accredited installer, you can be secure in the knowledge that you are using a credible and competent installer. By choosing their members, you avoid any cowboy builders or rogue traders.

• The scheme is fully endorsed by Nick Ross – former BBC Watchdog & Crimewatch Presenter
• Fully accredited installers
• Free consumer advice line: 0800 195 9433
• Free deposit and Stage Payment protection (up to 25% of the contract value)
• Free insurance backed guarantee for every customer
• Free mediation
• Free independent inspections
• Free access to The Ombudsman
• Free access to a Compensation Fund so you will never be left disadvantaged

Every customer of an accredited DGCOS member will receive a deposit and stage payment protection, as well as an Insurance Backed Guarantee – all part of the comprehensive protection plan offered by the scheme.

Accredited members will register your details on the online system within 48 hours of you signing the contract with them. DGCOS will then provide you with your insurance certificate and once the installation is complete, you will also be issued an Insurance Backed Guarantee along with a customer satisfaction survey.

The deposit and stage payment policy protects any monies you pay up to 25% of the contract value, with the maximum limit being £50,000. This policy lasts up to 90 days from the date the deposit is paid but for larger projects, this policy may be extended.

The Insurance Backed Guarantee lasts for up to 10 years and protects the guarantee you receive from your installer upon the completion of the job. If your installer ceases to trade and you require work done within the duration of your guarantee, you can make a claim on your insurance policy. Just contact DGCOS or the insurer directly.

When you choose a DGCOS installer, not only will you have access to their comprehensive insurance policies, you will also have access to a unique Compensation Fund. The fund will honour any awards made by the Ombudsman so any money drawn from the fund must be done with the Ombudsman’s authorisation.