Energy Rating

An energy rating is now required for all new build residential and commercial buildings as the only method of demonstrating compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations.  Act Surveyors can provide the energy rating services you require together with professional advice concerning what is required to suit your construction needs.

For new dwellings the energy rating is referred to as SAP rating and this is required at the design stage and then at the completion stage.  The design stage SAP will indicate to us as the approved inspector that the designs will or will not comply at commencement and the completion SAP will indicate if the as built dwelling complies.  These SAP ratings must be produced by accredited companies/persons. SAP ratings are not required for extensions to dwellings unless this is necessary to demonstrate compliance if the design has excessive glazing for example. 

For all new buildings other than dwellings the energy rating is referred to as the SBEM calculation.  The SBEM calculation is required at the design stage and at completion and must be submitted to us as the approved inspector at these stages.  The SBEM calculation does not need to be produced by accredited companies/persons but it is advisable that competent companies/persons produce the calculations to avoid errors being made that could lead to non-compliance.  SBEM calculations are required for extensions in certain circumstances where approved document L2A is applicable and this should be considered at the feasibility stage of design.

In addition to the above energy rating requirements many buildings will also need an EPC (energy performance certificate) or solar shading assessment.  The EPC is an energy label for a building that demonstrates the buildings energy efficiency in the same format as previously seen only for electrical goods.  The solar shading assessment is required to demonstrate compliance with criterion 3 of approved document L to the Building Regulations for new commercial buildings.  These can be provided as an additional or enhanced service to the SAP or SBEM energy rating.

Legislation other than the Building Regulations such as planning regulations may also require an assessment of the buildings sustainable or environmental credentials.  These assessments include the code for sustainable homes and BREEAM, with another standard being the ECO Homes standard. 

If you require advice with regard to energy ratings or sustainable building matters please contact your nearest regional office for further information.