Sap EPC Certificate
Introduction to SAP EPC Certificates
SAP EPC (Standard Assessment Procedure – Energy Performance Certificate) is a certificate that demonstrates the energy efficiency of a building.
It is an important tool for property owners, tenants, and buyers as it provides information about the annual energy consumption and carbon emissions of a property.
The main difference between a SAP EPC and a standard EPC
Although they will both will show the final energy rating of a property from A the highest to G the lowest, a SAP EPC will also demonstate compliance with certain building regulations.
The data that goes into calculating the EPC is called SAP calculations. The sap calculations can demonstrate compliance with Part L of the building regulations such as
- Dwelling CO2 emmision rates
- The overall dwelling fabric energy cost and efficiency
- The thermal value of any particular fabric element i.e walls, windows, roof floors etc.
- Any overheating risks within the building.
In this article, we will discuss SAP EPC certificates, their purpose, and how they are calculated.
Understanding SAP EPC Calculations
The SAP EPC calculation is a complex process that takes into account several factors such as the age of the building, the construction materials used, the type of heating and lighting systems installed, and the levels of insulation.
Also there are additional data entry points that create a more accurate representation of the property than a standard EPC such as:
- Window orientation and solar gain
- Airtightness results
- Calculated thermal junctions
How to tell the difference between a standard EPC and a Sap epc
All EPCs are on a government website at https://www.gov.uk/find-energy-certificate
Once on the online certificate if you scroll down to the bottom it will show what type of certificate it is as shown below.
On this epc example, it shows this assessment was carried out using rdsap.
This is the assessment used for standard domestic EPCs.
On this epc example, it shows this assessment was carried out using sap, sometimes called full sap.
Also a full SAP EPC will actually show calculated u-values for a specific thermal element, such as a wall, floor or roof
A standard EPC will only show the thickness of the insulation if it is known and an assumption of the u-value is made by the software. This assumed value will always show the worst case scenario and usually result in a worst value.
This is the reason that if you have a new house which would have been calculated using full sap and you subsequently renew the EPC, that the new epc rating is usually lower.
Rdsap EPC
SAP EPC
When is a SAP EPC Certificate Required
A Sap epc is required for all newly built properties and for dwelling change of use, for example changing an office block to residential flats, or when the amount of dwellings are created or reduced within a single building.
The certificate is valid for ten years and must be produced by an accredited On Construction Domestic Energy Assessor.
Benefits of SAP EPC Certificates
SAP EPC certificates provide several benefits to property owners, tenants, and buyers.
Firstly, they provide information about the energy efficiency of the energy and environmental performance of the property, which can help to reduce energy bills.
The certificate also provides information about the property’s carbon emissions, which is becoming increasingly important as the UK moves towards a net-zero carbon economy.
Secondly, the SAP rating and EPC certificates can increase the value of a property. A property with a high SAP EPC rating is likely to be more attractive to buyers and tenants as it indicates lower running costs and a smaller carbon footprint.
Thirdly, SAP EPC certificates for renewable technologies can help property owners to comply with environmental regulations.
The UK government has set targets to reduce carbon emissions, and the SAP EPC certificate is a way for property owners to demonstrate that they are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint.
How to Obtain a SAP EPC Certificate
To obtain a SAP EPC certificate, the property owner must contact an accredited On Contruction Domestic Energy Assessor.
In most cases the assessment is done from the building plans and other information provided by the customer.
In cases where inportant information is not available on the plans, then a site visit will have to be arranged.
If you have a requirement for Sap calculations we can give you a free quote for your project. Either call us on 0800 046 7345, or fill in our contact form.
How much is a SAP calculation?
The cost of a SAP calculation varies depending on the size of the property and the location.
The average cost for a SAP EPC certificate is between £150 and £380 depending on the complexity of the project.
Frequently Asked Questions about SAP EPC Certificates
What is the purpose of a SAP EPC certificate?
The purpose of a SAP EPC certificate is to provide information about the energy efficiency and carbon emissions of a property.
Is it a legal requirement to have a SAP EPC certificate?
Yes, it is a legal requirement to have a SAP EPC certificate for a newly built property or for a dwelling change of use.
How is the SAP EPC certificate calculated?
The SAP EPC certificate is calculated based on the energy consumption of the building for space heating, water heating, ventilation, and lighting.
The calculation also takes into account the type and efficiency of the heating system, the insulation of the walls, roof, and floor, and the airtightness of the building.
The calculation is based on a scale from A to G, where A represents the most energy-efficient buildings and G the least efficient.
How long is a SAP EPC certificate valid for?
A SAP EPC certificate is valid for ten years.
What happens if I do not have a SAP EPC certificate?
Failure to comply with the SAP EPC certificate requirements can result in a fine of up to £5,000 issued by the relevant local authority.
Conclusion
SAP EPC certificates are an important tool for property owners, tenants, and building control officers.
They provide information about the energy efficiency and carbon emissions of a property, which can help to reduce energy costs and bills and increase the value of the property.
SAP EPC certificates are also a way for property owners to comply with environmental regulations and demonstrate that they are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint.
It is important to obtain a SAP EPC certificate from an accredited energy assessor to ensure that it is accurate and valid.
With the increasing focus on energy efficiency and carbon emissions, SAP EPC certificates are becoming more important in the UK property market.
If you need any assistance on your project, get in touch with us at, [email protected], or call us on 0800 046 7345.
Rickie Dickson is an experienced and qualified domestic and non domestic energy assessor. He helps homeowners and businesses in all matters relating to energy efficiency, from meeting building regulations compliance to improving a property’s energy rating score.
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