New Build EPC'sNew Build EPC – or the Standard Assessment Procedure
The Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) 2001 is the UK Governments recommended method system for measuring the energy rating of residential dwellings.
The SAP is used to fulfill building regulations which now require the display of an energy rating in any dwelling. The Standard Assessment Procedure typically reflects the expected annual energy costs per unit of space as well as the expected costs of water heating.
Since 1995, Building Regulations have required a SAP rating on every new home and from 2001 builders had to post a notice in every finished dwelling stating its energy rating.
From 2005 the need for the Standard Assessment Procedure was extended again. Don't bet against further extensions in to the requirement for SAP.
The SAP rules vary for different people
Developers, architects and builders need Standard Assessment Procedure ratings for all new dwellings, including conversions, extensions and changes of use.
Local Authority and Housing Association landlords have their own special Standard Assessment Procedure rules to follow which cover old and new homes.
What do the energy ratings mean?
The Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) for energy rating of dwellings is essentially calculation of a building’s energy efficiency. SAP ratings are scored on a scale from 1 to 120 where 1 is the worst and 100 indicate no net cost of water and heating.
If your building has micro generators and is a net exporter of energy to the national grid then it is possible to have a score of more than 100. Such buildings are rare.
Carbon Dioxide Emission Rate
The Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) also requires the calculation of Target Carbon Dioxide Emission Rate (TER). The actual emission rate of your building, called the Dwelling Carbon Dioxide Emission Rate (DER) is then compared to the Target Carbon Dioxide Emission Rate. The result is expressed as a number from 1 to 10. This aspect of Building Regulations will be satisfied if the building meets the target.
