The Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) is a technique adopted by the government to evaluate and measure buildings ' energy and environmental efficiency. It is done to ensure that new advancements taken-up not only comply with the construction guidelines but also with all energy and environmental management initiatives put in place.
The main objective of an SAP Report is to determine how much energy a new construction can consume while offering a given level of convenience and service, considering generic utilization and behavioral assumptions.
This method also standardizes the evaluation process of residential energy performance, so that comparisons can be made nationally for similar purposes.
SAP Calculation Process
SAP report computations are based on the energy balance of new construction, taking into account several factors contributing to energy efficiency, such as:
· Type of building material used in construction
· Thermal insulation of building
· Dwelling air leakage features and ventilation equipment efficiency
· Efficiency and Heating System Regulation
· Solar benefits through house openings
· The fuel used to heat water, ventilate and illuminate surroundings
· Energy used to generate a cooling effect
· Renewable Energy techniques
The analysis does not incorporate individual household parameters such as house size and temperature and heating practices.
By evaluating the volume of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, and SAP Report can also determine the cost of fuel and the environmental impact score.
Importance of SAP Calculations
Since 1995, SAP evaluations have been a legal obligation under Part L of the Building rules for all newly-constructed, residential properties in the UK. For the building proposal to meet regulatory requirements, a home must receive a ' Pass ' on the laid assessment parameters. Without this, the Housing Control board will not register your property, and consequently, it cannot be legitimately advertised for lease or sale.
