The Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) is a consumer protection organisation that ensures consumers are protected when using a DGCOS accredited member. DGCOS is the only comprehensive consumer protection organisation operating within the double glazing sector and the only scheme to give consumers an advanced level of protection and confidence.

DGCOS’s advice to consumers is completely free of charge. The scheme's spokesman and Brand Ambassador is George Clarke (TV presenter and architect) who is a passionate advocate for consumer protection.

In the unlikely event that we cannot resolve a dispute, you will also have free access to the independent ombudsman we have appointed. The ombudsman’s decision is binding on the member but not on you. The ombudsman will not be able to investigate your complaint if you are taking, or have already taken, a form of legal action.

The deposit and stage-payment protection insurance covers up to 25% of the contract value (maximum limit of £5,000) for 120 days (terms and conditions apply). We provide this protection to cover you in the unlikely event that the member cannot complete your installation because they are no longer trading.

To benefit from this protection (which we pay for):
• the member must have registered your installation on our online portal;
• you must have entered into a contract with the member, named as supplier on the certificate;
• you must be able to provide proof of your contract with the member, named as supplier on the certificate;
• you must be able to provide proof of the payments you have made to the member, named as supplier on the certificate; and
• the member must have ceased (stopped) trading, and if they are a limited company, Companies House must have confirmed this.

No protection will be in place until we have written to you to confirm we have arranged this, after the member has registered your installation on our system, and in line with the conditions above. If you have not received our letter confirming we have arranged your protection within five working days of you signing the contract, please contact our member or us as soon as possible as your payments will not be covered.

Please note, the insurance we buy and the protection scheme we operate do not cover any payments (deposits and stage payments) of more than 25% of the contract value (or the maximum limit of £5,000) that you make to the member before the installation is finished and the contract is completed.

Scheme members have passed our strict accreditation process for the product (or products) they want to be accredited for. They are also continually monitored to make sure they are keeping to our rules. This monitoring can include, but is not limited to, checking members’ finances, competency certificates and business insurance. We may also share information with consumer bodies (where appropriate).