Sap Assessments

The Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) for the energy rating of dwellings is the methodology currently used by the government to estimate the energy performance of homes. The methodology has 2 main uses:

to demonstrate compliance of new homes with Part L of the Building Regulations
to generate Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) for all homes, which advise occupants, prospective buyers, landlords, and renters of the energy performance of a property

Sap calculations are carried out by an accredited assessor. SAP calculations are used to identify the energy performance of a property. This means energy use, solar gains, carbon dioxide creation and overall energy consumption compared to output.

Building regulations require that a new build demonstrate compliance with SAP calculation regulations and then this will get an EPC.

This includes not only newly built dwellings but also home extensions. New external walls and room spaces need to be tested.

This is also required for commercial to domestic conversions (conversion work that turns a storefront or business into a home).

How are SAP calculations completed?

They look at various information such as

Insulation

Drawings of elevations

Ventilation Systems

Heating Patterns

Household size

Renewable Technology

Heating System

Lighting

Primary & Secondary Space heating

Target Fabric Energy Efficiency

Heat Loss

What do you need for SAP Calculations?

Floorplans, Elevation and sectional drawings. Insulation details and thermal element information, ventilation systems, lighting, heating, Domestic Hot water and Heating details.

What happens if it fails?

The assessor will suggest ways to improve your building to achieve the required rating along with the Target Efficiency rating

When are they carried out?

These really need to be done in the early design process due to changes being made, allowing changes to be made throughout.

Sap or EPC?

The SAP will eventually turn into your EPC.

Cost

The cost varies in price depending on size, number of dwellings. Prices start from £80 -£500 per unit