SAP Calculations

What is SAP?

SAP, or Standard Assessment Procedure, is the Government’s approved methodology for the calculation of a property’s energy consumption rate and associated CO2 emissions.

Why is it important?

SAP is intrinsically linked to Part L1A and L1B of the Building Regulations and is the only means to demonstrate compliance with these sections of the Regulations. Indeed the Regulations require that a SAP calculation must be completed on the design before works can start on site!

How is a SAP calculation carried out?

SAP is primarily a desk based calculation. Using the floor plans, elevations and sectional drawings we model the property in our approved software, together with the build specification and proposed heating and ventilation systems. The software then calculates a Target Emission Rate (TER) based on the information inputted and at the same time the property’s actual emission rate or Dwelling Emission Rate (DER).  To demonstrate to the Building Control Officer that your design is compliant with Part L, the DER must be less than or equal to the TER.
 

What information must you provide?

To carry out a SAP calculation we require the architectural drawings – floor plans, sections and elevations. In addition information on the proposed construction of the floor, walls, roof and openings are needed. And finally details on the proposed heating and ventilation system.
 

How can we help?
As the Building Regulations have been amended the task of passing SAP has got progressively more difficult. (SAP and Part L will be amended again in late 2013!) Our professionals however have completed thousands of calculations and so can provide the most current and most cost effective advice to achieve compliance.