Window Safety Guard Regulations Explained: What Homeowners & Developers Need to Know

The UK government has introduced window regulations that have had significant impact on homeowners, builders, and renovators up and down the country. These updates have been set in motion to help push energy efficiency, safety, security and sustainability in homes and buildings. Already, the new compliances have required adjustments, but they aim to make properties safer, more comfortable, and better aligned with modern standards.

In this article, we look at the regulations and what you can do to meet them in your property, let's go!

Related blog: Interior Design Trends 2025 - What's Next?

What Are The Window Regulations?

• Stricter-U-Valve Requirements - Improvements to energy efficiency and reducing heat bills with the U-Valve measurer changing from 1.4W/m2K to 1.2W/m2K for all replacement windows.
• Mandatory Safety Glass in High-Risk Areas - Windows near doors, staircases, and low-lying areas now require toughened safety glass to reduce risks of injury and accidents.
• Improved Ventilation Standards - Trickle vents or integrated ventilation systems will be required in all replacement windows to improve airflow indoors.
• Increased Security Measures - All windows must now have reinforced window frames, high-quality locks, and enhanced resistance to forced entry.
• New Rules on Safety Guards for Low Sills - Windows with sills positioned lower than 800mm from the floor require a protective security barrier to prevent falling.

What Are The Rules On Safety Guards For Lower Sills?

So, let's explain that final point, explaining the safety-focused update further...

According to Technical Guidance Note 16 from the Building Control Alliance, windows with a sill that are quite low have a serious fall risk and are very dangerous to vulnerable people and children who may be nearby. Windows with sills positioned lower than 800mm from the floor require a protective security barrier across them and will be mandatory for both residential and commercial properties. 

Failing to follow this rule could lead to a multitude of consequences: fines, delays in property sales, insurance issues, legal liability, and decreased property value, to name a few. Staying in the loop with these changes ensures your property is up to modern standards and keeps the environment safe from harm. These barriers are designed to be sturdy, child-safe, but still aesthetic to blend in nicely with a normal living environment.

Let's Break The Measurements Down:

• Window sills between 300mm-800mm from the floor - A guardrail of 700mm in height.
• Full-height windows (French windows or Juliet balconies) - Guardrail of at least 1100mm.

What Is The Rothley Window Safety Guard?

With these changes regarding the building regulations, it's crucial now more than ever to install a window safety barrier into your space. Especially for landlords and property developers, this is basically a priority now. But you need a kit that does the job perfectly and without confusion. That's where we come in.

At Rothley, our new and improved Window safety barrier kit is available in two finishes, Polished and Brushed Stainless Steel, which are designed to blend seamlessly into any living space. The kits come with the added screws and plugs and are available in three lengths, 1200mm, 1800mm, 2400mm! They're built to last with bigger weight resistance, our barrier is designed to withstand over 75% of lateral force, which meets safety standards of the minimum resistance of 75kg. 

Have we grabbed your interest? You can check out the safety barrier further on our website.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, these regulations are clear shifts towards smarter and safer buildings. Whilst we can't see this rule applying forever (we reckon that the window glass will become tougher, and windows will open less to accommodate the new regulations), it's still a key change that needs addressing currently. Think you need more assistance? Don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help!