SAP Calculations is sometimes referred to as SAP Conversion Calculations, SAP Conversion rating, SAP Conversion Assessment, Part L1B Compliance, SAP Conversion Calcs, SAP Conversion Calc.

SAP Calculations Across the UK

What Is A SAP Calculation?

SAP calculations are the Government's Standard Assessment Procedure for Energy Ratings. In order to produce an On Construction EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) or a Predicted Energy Assessment (PEA), a SAP is required, as this is the calculation these certificates are based on.

The higher the SAP rating, the lower the cost will be to run the building. The score represents the cost of energy required by a property over the course of a year with a 100 score meaning there's no energy cost. To calculate the SAP, the assessor uses information relating to lighting, heating, hot water systems, renewable technolgies used and the elements of structure.

Why Do I Need A SAP Calculation?

Under Part L of Building Regulations in the UK, since 2006, any new dwellings or conversions need to have a SAP Calculation and Predicted EPC before any work can begin.

It is the responsibility of the builder to provide any On Construction EPCs when a home is constructed. This will also apply if a building is converted into fewer or more units (material change of use) and changes are made to the heating, hot water provision or air conditioning/ventilation services.

You will need to provide information about energy efficiency in a Predicted Energy Assessment (PEA) if you are planning to sell the property before it has been built.

How Is A SAP Assessment Undertaken?

A SAP is done off-site but requires plans and drawings of the site in order to be calculated. Amongst other things, the SAP assessor will determine how good the thermal elements are in the floors and walls and how well heat passes through these elements - this is known as a 'U' value. A high 'U' value represents a high amount of heat lost - this is used in the SAP calculation.

The crucial information needed for the SAP software relates to the type of dwelling, floors, walls, the roof, windows, doors, lighting, renewable technologies, 'U' values, hot water and ventilation. With this, we can determine if a building complies with Building Regulations in the UK.