SAP (Standard Assessment Procedures) is a metric used to measure the estimated energy efficiency and carbon footprint of a building. SAP is the only government-approved system for assessing the energy rating of a newly built residential home, based on standardised assumptions for occupancy as well as occupant behaviour.
SAP calculations are a pre-requisite for a building’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to be issued.
In order to comply with current Building Regulations, a SAP calculation and a predicted EPC must be submitted before construction can begin on a new build. This rule also applies to some extensions and conversions. Without an EPC, a building can’t be occupied or sold.
A simpler, Reduced Data SAP (RdSAP) is used to assess energy performance of existing dwellings; this system is due to be updated in the near future.
Commercial properties are assessed via the Simplified Building Energy Model (SBEM).
