Quick Facts on SAP EPC Testing: Why You Need it, Its Purpose, and More

The SAP or Standard Assessment Procedure is a familiar term for those who are involved in the construction and building sector, as well as for those who have undertaken a building project in recent years. But for those who are not too familiar with it or how it works, the SAP is an approved method for comparing and calculating the environmental and energy performance of a particular dwelling. The procedure itself is regulated by the government, and it has been implemented in order for the government to pave the way for its initiatives and policies on energy efficiency. But what else do you need to know about the SAP or Standard Assessment Procedure, and why do you need it? Here are some quick facts on SAP EPC testing. 

The purpose of the SAP 

The SAP EPC, as it is also known, is used to quantify the performance of a building or structure in terms of its use of energy for every floor area, and it is also used to assess the building’s SAP rating (an energy efficiency rating based on fuel and cost), as well as its CO2 emissions (also referred to as the environmental impact rating). These ratings will indicate the performance of a building, and it is based on the estimate of the building’s yearly energy consumption when it comes to space heating, lighting, ventilation, and domestic hot water system. The other outputs of the SAP take into account an estimate of the energy used for appliances, the potential for the building to overheat, especially during the summer, and the building’s cooling load. 

Who needs it?

The SAP EPC is required for all new builds and certain extensions, as confirmed by TheBuildingComplianceTeam.com, which have been specialists in SAP EPC assessments for years. The SAP EPC is also required for some conversions once they are completed. The use of a SAP assessment has proven invaluable for many building projects, and many house builders and developers have found that a PEA or predicted energy assessment can greatly contribute to a building’s energy efficiency even before construction has begun. By making use of a PEA, builders and developers can determine how much to use when it comes to insulation materials that can save energy, for instance, and it also helps them identify the most effective hot water and heating system to use for the building. It also helps builders and developers determine the most adequate system for ventilation for the building and how best to use renewable technology – and which renewable technology to use, at that. 

What about the EPC? 

A standard EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) is a requirement as well, and the only difference between the two is that the SAP EPC is more detailed and comprehensive, and may even result in a higher rating for the development. While you can get a stand-alone EPC, the EPC is already included with the SAP assessment in the UK, in accordance with Regulation 29 in Building Regulations 2010. The Energy Performance Certificate is also a necessity in order to adhere to Building Control, and it confirms whether or not the existing or proposed dwelling or structure meets the specific standards that are outlined in Building Regulations in terms of the conservation of power and fuel.