Is your replacement windows quote fair? What Essex fitters publish
Window sales still have a reputation for a high opening price, a "today only" discount and a salesperson who won't leave. The fix is simple: know what a fitted window costs locally before anyone sits on your sofa.
What Essex window firms publish (checked 24 October 2026)
Prices from firms' own websites. They're guide prices for supply and fitting, not quotes.
| Firm (anonymised) | Standard uPVC casement, fitted | Whole house | Other published prices | VAT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basildon window and door company (A) | From £450 | Typical three-bed semi £3,500–£6,000 | Bay from £1,800; sliding sash from £950; back door from £1,100. Includes removal and disposal of old frames | Not stated |
| Colchester building company that also fits windows (B) | Usually £450–£750, depending on size and openers | Three-bed semi (8–10 windows) typically £4,500–£7,500 | Composite front door usually £1,200–£2,000 | Not stated |
| North Essex glazing company (C) | £550–£800 (aluminium £800–£1,100; timber £1,000–£1,400) | 8 windows in uPVC £3,200–£5,700 | uPVC bay £1,400–£2,200; uPVC sash £860–£1,600 | Not stated |
Prices taken from firms' own published rates, checked 24 October 2026. Firms are named only once they've agreed. Spotted an error? Email hello@fairquoteessex.co.uk.
So a standard white uPVC casement fitted in Essex is about £450–£800, and a typical three-bed semi lands somewhere around £3,500–£7,500, depending on style, colour and how many windows open. A quote well above that should come with a reason, such as aluminium or timber, coloured or woodgrain frames, triple glazing, bays, or awkward access.
VAT on windows: no, it isn't 0%
You may have heard that energy-saving installations are VAT-free. HMRC's VAT Notice 708/6 does zero-rate certain energy-saving materials, such as insulation, solar panels and heat pumps, until 31 March 2027. But it says the installation of other energy-efficient products, including secondary or double glazing, is standard-rated. So expect 20% VAT from a VAT-registered firm, and check whether the price you've been given includes it.
Building Regulations: get the certificate
Replacing windows and doors is work covered by Building Regulations. You don't have to apply for approval yourself if the installer is registered with a competent person scheme, who can self-certify the work. Ask which scheme the firm uses, check it on that scheme's own register, and keep the certificate. Your solicitor will ask for it when you sell.
Questions to ask before you sign
- What's the price per window, and is VAT included?
- Does it include removing and disposing of the old frames, and making good inside and out?
- What glazing, frame colour and energy rating is quoted?
- Which competent person scheme are you registered with, and will I get the certificate?
- What guarantee do I get on frames and sealed units, and is it insurance-backed?
- How big a deposit do you want, and when is the balance due?
- Is this price valid for 30 days, so I can get other quotes?
If a price is "only valid today", or a big discount appears after a phone call to "the manager", thank them and get two more quotes. Ask the firm to explain your cancellation rights in writing.
Only the glass misted?
If the frames are sound and only a sealed unit has misted between the panes, ask for a price to replace the glass unit rather than the whole window.
Are you an Essex window fitter?
If you publish clear prices and would like to be considered for the directory, or something here is wrong, email hello@fairquoteessex.co.uk. Listing is free, and nothing about your business goes live until you've checked it.
General information only. Prices change, so confirm them before you instruct anyone.
Sources: HMRC, VAT Notice 708/6 · GOV.UK, when you need building regulations approval · GOV.UK, competent person schemes · firms' own published price pages (checked 24 Oct 2026).