SAP Assessments
Comprehensive energy performance calculations for new build developments ensuring Part L compliance and optimal energy efficiency
What is a SAP Assessment?
The Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) is the government-approved methodology for calculating the energy performance of new residential buildings. SAP assessments are mandatory for all new build properties and provide detailed energy ratings that demonstrate compliance with Part L building regulations.
A SAP assessment should be completed at design stage to ensure your development meets energy efficiency requirements before construction begins. My SAP assessments provide comprehensive energy modelling that evaluates every aspect of your building's thermal performance, from insulation levels and heating systems to ventilation and renewable technologies. This early assessment ensures your development meets current energy efficiency standards and helps optimise performance from the design stage.
Why SAP Assessments Are Essential
SAP assessments are not just a compliance requirement – they're a valuable tool for optimising your building's energy performance. By identifying the most effective energy efficiency measures during the design phase, you can reduce construction costs, improve occupant comfort, and create more marketable properties.
From SAP Assessment to EPC
Once your SAP assessment is completed, it automatically generates an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for your property. The SAP calculation provides all the necessary data to create the EPC, including:
- Energy efficiency rating (A-G scale)
- Environmental impact rating (A-G scale)
- Current and potential energy costs
- Recommended improvements
- Carbon dioxide emissions
This SAP-generated EPC is the only type of EPC that building control will accept for new build properties at handover.
Important: Standard Domestic EPCs Not Accepted
Building control will not accept a standard Domestic EPC for new build handover. Only EPCs generated from SAP assessments are valid for new build properties. Standard Domestic EPCs (RdSAP) are designed for existing properties and use different calculation methods that don't meet the requirements for new build compliance.
Attempting to use a standard Domestic EPC for a new build will result in building control rejection and delays to your project completion.
Types of SAP Assessments
I provide comprehensive SAP assessment services tailored to your project needs and timeline:
Design Stage SAP
Conducted during the design phase to ensure your building will meet Part L requirements. This early assessment allows for design optimisation and cost-effective energy efficiency improvements before construction begins.
- Pre-construction energy modelling
- Design compliance verification
- Energy efficiency recommendations
- Cost-benefit analysis of improvements
As-Built SAP
Final assessment conducted after construction completion to verify that the building meets the design stage predictions and Part L compliance requirements.
- Post-construction verification
- Final compliance certification
- Building control submission
- EPC generation
Historic SAP Assessments
When original documentation is lost or previous assessments are inadequate, I provide comprehensive historic SAP assessments to get your project back on track.
- Retrospective energy modelling
- Compliance recovery solutions
- Documentation reconstruction
- Building control support
The SAP Assessment Process
My SAP assessment process follows a systematic approach to ensure accuracy and compliance:
1. Project Review
I review your architectural drawings, specifications, and design details to understand the building's construction and systems. This includes thermal elements, heating systems, ventilation, and renewable technologies.
2. Data Collection
I gather all necessary information including U-values, thermal bridging details, heating system specifications, ventilation rates, and renewable energy systems. I work closely with your design team to ensure accuracy.
3. Energy Modelling
Using approved SAP software, I create detailed energy models that calculate heat loss, heat gains, and energy consumption. This includes space heating, water heating, lighting, and ventilation energy use.
4. Compliance Analysis
I analyse the results against Part L requirements, checking carbon emissions, primary energy consumption, and fabric energy efficiency. If improvements are needed, I provide detailed recommendations.
5. Report Generation
I produce comprehensive SAP reports including energy ratings, compliance certificates, and detailed recommendations. All documentation is formatted for building control submission.
6. Ongoing Support
I provide ongoing support throughout your project, updating assessments as designs change and ensuring continued compliance through to completion.
Benefits of Professional SAP Assessments
🏗️ Building Compliance
Ensure your development meets Part L building regulations and passes building control inspections.
💰 Cost Optimisation
Identify the most cost-effective energy efficiency measures during the design phase.
🌡️ Performance Optimisation
Optimise building performance for comfort, energy efficiency, and occupant satisfaction.
🌱 Environmental Impact
Minimise carbon emissions and contribute to environmental sustainability targets.
📋 Documentation
Receive comprehensive reports and certificates for building control submission.
🔧 Problem Solving
Get expert support when documentation is lost or previous assessments fail.
SAP Assessment Requirements
SAP assessments are mandatory for most new residential buildings. Here's what you need to know:
When SAP Assessments Are Required
- All new residential buildings (houses, flats, apartments)
- Conversions of existing buildings to residential use
- Extensions that create new thermal envelopes
- Mixed-use developments with residential elements
- Some commercial buildings with residential elements
Key SAP Metrics
Current Part L requirements focus on several key metrics:
- Dwelling Emission Rate (DER): Must not exceed the Target Emission Rate (TER)
- Dwelling Fabric Energy Efficiency (DFEE): Must not exceed the Target Fabric Energy Efficiency (TFEE)
- Primary Energy Consumption: Must not exceed the Target Primary Energy Rate (TPER)
- Overheating Risk: Must demonstrate compliance with Part O requirements
Information Required
To conduct a SAP assessment, I need:
- Architectural drawings and specifications
- Construction details and U-values
- Heating and hot water system specifications
- Ventilation system details
- Renewable energy system specifications
- Thermal bridging calculations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I commission a SAP assessment?
It's best to commission a design stage SAP assessment as early as possible in your project, ideally during the planning application stage. This allows for design optimisation and ensures compliance before construction begins. An as-built assessment is required before building control completion.
What happens if my building fails the SAP assessment?
If your building doesn't meet Part L requirements, I'll provide detailed recommendations for improvement. Common solutions include:
- Improving insulation levels
- Upgrading heating systems
- Installing renewable energy technologies
- Improving air tightness
- Optimising thermal bridging details
I'll work with your design team to find the most cost-effective solutions.
How long does a SAP assessment take?
Design stage assessments typically take 3-5 working days, while as-built assessments can be completed in 2-3 days. Historic assessments may take longer depending on the complexity and available information. I provide realistic timelines based on your project requirements.
Can you help with historic SAP assessments?
Yes, I specialise in historic SAP assessments when original documentation has been lost or previous assessments are inadequate. I can reconstruct the necessary information and provide compliant assessments to get your project back on track.
What software do you use for SAP calculations?
I use approved SAP software that meets government requirements, including the latest versions of SAP software and associated calculation tools. All calculations are conducted according to current building regulations and standards.
How much does a SAP assessment cost?
Costs vary depending on project size and complexity. Contact me for a personalised quote based on your specific requirements. I provide competitive pricing with no hidden costs and clear timelines for delivery.
Ready to Start Your SAP Assessment?
Ensure your development meets Part L compliance with professional SAP assessments. From design stage modelling to historic assessments, I provide comprehensive support throughout your project.