Skip to main content
Security Standard
4.3/5 from 27+ reviews

Approved Document Q

Document Q sets security requirements for windows and doors in new dwellings. Learn how glazing specification affects compliance.
Get Free Quote Now
PAS 24:2022 Tested
Document Q Compliant
Enhanced Security

Security standards for residential glazing.

Expert Glazing, Done Right

We're not a national call centre. We're local glaziers who take pride in every job.

PAS 24 Testing

Windows and doors in new dwellings must be tested to PAS 24:2022 (or equivalent) for enhanced security performance against physical attack.

Ground Floor & Accessible

Document Q applies to all easily accessible windows and doors — typically ground floor and any upper floor windows reachable from flat roofs or balconies.

Laminated Glass Option

Where frames don't meet PAS 24, laminated glass to BS EN 356 class P1A can be used as an alternative security measure for the glazed element.

Certification Required

Compliance must be demonstrated through test evidence or third-party certification. We provide documentation for all security-rated glazing specifications.

Expert Knowledge

Understanding Document Q

Approved Document Q (Security in Dwellings) was introduced in October 2015 as part of the Building Regulations for England. It sets minimum security requirements for windows, doors, and other access points in new residential buildings.

The key requirement is that all easily accessible doors and windows must be manufactured to a design that has been tested to PAS 24:2022 (or its predecessor PAS 24:2016) and shown to meet the security requirements.

How glazing specification affects compliance:

The glass itself plays an important role in Document Q compliance. Standard annealed glass is relatively easy to break, while toughened glass shatters into small pieces when broken. For maximum security, laminated glass holds together when broken, making forced entry significantly harder.

Pane Relief offers sealed units with laminated glass options for Document Q compliance. Our laminated units use PVB interlayers to BS EN 356, providing both security and safety glass properties in a single unit.

Document Q applies to new dwellings and conversions creating new dwellings. It does not retrospectively apply to existing homes having replacement windows fitted — though upgrading security glass is always recommended for ground floor windows.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about our double glazing repair and replacement services across the South West.

  • No. Document Q applies to new dwellings only (new builds and conversions). Replacement windows in existing homes are governed by Part L (thermal performance) but not Document Q. However, specifying laminated or toughened glass for ground floor windows is good practice regardless.

  • PAS 24:2022 is a British Standard specification for enhanced security performance of windows and doors. Products are physically tested against attack simulation to verify they resist forced entry for a defined period.

  • The sealed unit (glass) is one component. Full compliance requires the complete window assembly (frame + hardware + glass) to be PAS 24 tested. However, specifying laminated glass in the sealed unit significantly contributes to the overall security rating.

  • We offer laminated glass with PVB interlayers conforming to BS EN 356. The standard security option is class P1A (impact resistant). Higher security ratings are available on request for specialist applications.

Security-Rated Sealed Units

Get your free, no-obligation quote today. Most quotes delivered within 24 hours.

Request Free Quote Call 0117 330 3057

Prefer to talk? Call us on 0117 330 3057