Energy Assessments
As accredited On Construction Domestic Energy Assessors we use accredited Elmhurst Design SAP software to carry out assessments using SAP2012. These assessments are used to determine the SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) rating of a dwelling, and confirm whether it is compliant with the requirements of Approved Document L1A (ADL1A) of the Building Regulations
What is a SAP Rating?
The SAP calculates a rating for the energy cost due to the built structure of the home, its heating system, internal lighting, and any renewable technologies.
The SAP energy rating scale is from 1 to 100+, with the higher the number the lower the fuel running costs. The scale is set so that 100 represents zero energy cost, therefore the SAP rating can be more than 100 if the income from the energy exported exceeds the cost of the energy used.
The SAP energy rating provides the basis for the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), which places the SAP rating on an A – G scale as per the table opposite
Why do I need a SAP Calculation?
The primary goal of ADL1A of the Building Regulations (2013) is to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
There are five criteria which must be met under ADL1A as follows:
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The predicted CO2 emissions must be no greater than the target value (the Dwelling Emission Rate [DER] must be less than the Target Emission Rate [TER]). Furthermore, the Designed Fabric Energy Efficiency (DFEE) must be less than or equal to the Target Fabric Energy Efficiency (TFEE).
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Defined limits on design flexibility must not be exceeded.
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Excessive solar gains must be prevented in order to avoid overheating in summer
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Specific requirements regarding the construction and commissioning must be achieved.
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Data to enable the production of an EPC must be provided, plus information on the operation and maintenance of heating systems etc.
The assessments which we carry out allow us to provide clients with an analysis to confirm all of these criteria are met which can be forwarded to Building Control to satisfy their requirements. We will also produce the EPC upon completion of the dwelling construction.
Extensions & Refurbishments
We can provide the necessary SAP Calculations and accompanying Reports to satisfy the requirements of ADL1B of the Building Regulations, especially in instances of large areas of glazing in extensions. We provide SAP calculations and aaccompaning EPCs for newly refurbished or converted dwellings.