Building Regulations/standards require that a SAP Calculation is carried out before commencing work on a new build dwelling i.e. houses, flats, extensions and conversions.
Diland EPC uses SAP to measure the energy efficiency/rating of new buildings including the CO2 emissions and predicted fuel costs.
What is a SAP Calculation?
Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) calculations make up a big part of the planning and building compliance process and, for new developers and self-builders, can be quite tricky to understand.
SAP is the government approved method of assessing and measuring the energy rating of any new build dwelling. It is typically required for new houses but you may also require a SAP calculation for a conversion or extension.
The calculation itself produces a rating which typically indicates a score from 1 to 100+, with higher scores representing lower energy costs and associated CO2 emissions. This score is determined by many factors including the dwellings thermal elements, heating systems (space and water) and lighting; it also takes into account the positive impact renewable technologies can deliver to a dwelling (See Energy Performance Certificates)
Why do I need a SAP Calculation?
In order to meet current regulations in the UK, home builders/ developers will need to achieve a ‘PASS’ on their calculation. If the result of the calculation indicates a fail, or they do not have one, Building Control will not sign off the development and the property cannot be let or marketed for sale.
SAP Calculations can also help those involved in the design of new dwellings to shape an improved energy profile, reducing energy use and carbon emissions.
When is a SAP Calculation required?
We recommend that you contact us early in the process to ensure that your design meets the criteria of building regulations without having to carry out costly retrospective alterations.
The calculation process is desk-based and requires a set of drawings (including plans, elevations and sections) and a building specification which details the building elements and information regarding the heating and ventilation systems.
A calculation is performed both before and after construction. This is often referred to as a ‘Design Stage/ Initial' SAP Calculation’ and an ‘As-Built' SAP Calculation.
About Design Stage SAP Calculations
A Design Stage Calculation and Building Regulations Application must be submitted to Building Control, otherwise construction cannot begin. The sooner this is submitted, the sooner the construction process can begin.
The Design Stage Calculation also provides a Target Emission Rate (TER) and Target Fabric Energy Efficiency (TFEE), which are based on the emissions of a 'notional dwelling' of the same shape and size of the proposed dwelling.
About As-built Stage SAP Calculations
Once the building construction is completed, Building Control requires an As-built Calculation and EPC. Without this, the building is unlikely to achieve Final Approval and cannot be marketed for sale or let.
If the building has been altered during the building process this could impact compliance. If this is the case we would recommend contacting us as we can assist and ensure any changes to the design/ construction of the dwelling will meet Part L of the Building Regulations.
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