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SAP Calculations are a crucial component of ensuring energy efficiency in buildings and are required by Planning and Building Regulations for all new build dwellings, converted dwellings, and certain extensions. SAP, which stands for Standard Assessment Procedure, is a government-approved method for assessing and comparing the energy performance of residential properties. This assessment results in a SAP rating, which is a numerical figure between 1 and 100+. A rating of 1 indicates a highly inefficient home, while a rating above 100 suggests that the dwelling is a net exporter of regulated energy, meaning it generates more energy than it consumes.
Since 2008, in response to the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), all new homes in the United Kingdom under construction are required to have a Predicted Energy Assessment (PEA) and an On Construction Energy Performance Certificate (OCEPC). These documents are essential for demonstrating compliance with energy performance standards and are a legal requirement before a new home can be occupied.
SAP Calculations are integral to the design phase of a property, working in tandem with the PEA to achieve Building Control approval, as mandated by Part L1a of the Building Regulations. This process is similar to the requirements for Air Tightness Testing, ensuring that new homes are built to be energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.
At JosTec, we have a team of experienced in-house SAP assessors who are dedicated to providing accurate and reliable SAP calculations. Our service comes with a pass guarantee based on our expert recommendations, giving you peace of mind that your project will meet all necessary regulatory requirements.
If you’re visiting this page, you might also need some of our other services. If you’re unsure which services are right for you, you can check here or get in touch with our team for guidance
What Is A SAP Calculation?
The SAP Calculations establish a comparative rating based on estimated fuel costs / energy consumption. These are calculated based on the construction, the heating system, internal lighting and any renewable technologies installed.
A SAP Calculation is used to determine the energy values for new homes. SAPs also apply to dwellings that are created by conversions or ‘material changes of use’. SAP Calculations, carried out by our assessors, help to provide the EPC Rating for a property. In order for us to create your SAP and EPC, we will require the following:
• The architect’s plans (floor plans, cross sections, elevations, site plan)
• Construction specification details (such as a wall, floor, and roof build ups, heating systems, any renewable technologies installed)
• Window specification
Do I Need A SAP Calculation?
Under Building Regulations Approved Document L, you will require a SAP calculation if you are:
- Building any new build residential dwellings
- Sub-dividing a residential property into more units
- Converting commercial premises to residential dwellings
- Putting an extension onto an existing residential dwelling, where the area of glazing is in excess 25% of the extension’s floor area.
When A SAP Assessment Is Required
All new build dwellings require a SAP assessment. If your project is a barn conversion, a single dwelling into flats or a change of use it is likely that Building Control will ask for Part L1b SAP Calculations. If your project is an extension, and the glazing on the extension covers more than 25% of the extension area, you will likely need a SAP Calculation.
It is crucial to check whether your extension requires these calculations, in order to comply with Approved Document L.
SAPs tell the assessor and Building Control a number of important points about the property:
- Whether or not the building exceeds the Target Emission Rate and Target Fabric Energy Efficiency Rate
- The performance of the property with regards to its energy use
- The Energy Efficiency Rating of the property
Contact us today for SAP Calculations and EPCS
We offer the highest levels of service and expertise and are always happy to work with our customers to give you the best possible chance of achieving a pass on your SAP Calculations and EPC. Additionally, if you need your SAP assessment quickly, we offer a 24-hour service. Please contact us for further information.