SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) is a defined procedure for gathering information, which has been set by the Government in accordance with Part L Building Control Regulations – Conservation of Fuel and Power.

SAP calculation is a method to create an energy rating report for new built properties and new extensions which designed to calculate an energy score between 1 to 100+ for the annual energy consumption. The actual rating is based on the built structure of the home, its heating and hot water system, internal lighting and any renewable technologies used in the dwelling.

A SAP rating is the technical calculation that is required in order to produce a Predicted Energy Assessment (PEA) and an On Construction Energy Performance Certificate (OCEPC) both of which are reports that abstract information from the supporting SAP calculation The SAP rating shown on the SAP calculation certificate is the same number as is needed for Building Regulations but it is shown in a similar format to the energy labels that are now often used for many appliances like fridge and washing machines. The Environmental Impact rating is also shown in SAP calculations, which shows how much carbon emissions the home is expected to generate.

Building Regulations Part L 2010 (SAP 2009)

The Approved Documents for Part L are now contained in the Building Regulations 2010, which came into effect on the 1st October 2010. The regulations contain new energy performance requirements for work notified to building control on or after 1st October 2010. The annual carbon emission rate of the dwelling is calculated using SAP 2009.

Building Regulations Part L 2006 (SAP 2005)

For work notified to building control before 1st October 2010, the 2006 Building Regulations Part L Documentation applies. In this instance the annual carbon emission rate of the dwelling is calculated using SAP 2005.