SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) Calculations are required to adhere to Building Regulations Part F (2006) for the compliance for all new build domestic dwellings, conversions and extensions.

Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) is the UK government's approved method of assessing a building's energy performance and is now mandatory for all new build dwellings.

The first part of the SAP calculations involves the assessor working out a Target Carbon Dioxide Emissions Rate (TER) for the dwelling. The next step in the SAP report process sees the assessor calculate the Dwelling Carbon Emissions Rate (DER). If this is equal to or less than the TER then the SAP rating shows a pass and the SAP calculations are complete.

If the DER is not equal to or less than the TER then the SAP assessor will liaise with the client and suggest changes that will improve the DER to ensure that the SAP calculations achieve a pass.

EPC (Energy Performance Certificates)

An EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rates the energy performance of a building. It is broadly similar in design and intent to the well-established coloured energy labels provided with electrical appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines.

It gives the building a standard energy and carbon (C02) emission efficiency grade from 'A' to 'G', where A is very efficient and G is very inefficient. The higher the rating the more energy efficient the building is and therefore the fuel bills will be lower.

As well as rating the property, part of the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a recommendation report which lists the potential rating the building could achieve. Recommendations are given on how to improve the rating of the property and an estimation of how much money these improvements could save you.

As soon as the building is marketed for sale or rent the EPC must be in place. This is the responsibility of the owner and the agent. Failure to have an EPC will result in both parties being subject to a fine.