In the picturesque town of Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, the completion of a new building marks a significant milestone. One essential component of this final phase is the “as built” stage of SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) calculations. This critical step ensures that the building’s energy performance aligns with UK building regulations and energy efficiency standards. I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Sarah Bennett, a local building consultant, who shared her insights and experiences with SAP calculations at the “as built” stage.
Successful low-energy building design hinges on careful planning. Focus360 Energy can help.
Sarah Bennett has been a cornerstone in the Aylesbury building community for over a decade. With a background in environmental engineering, she has overseen numerous residential and commercial projects. Her expertise in navigating the intricate world of SAP calculations has helped many buildings achieve compliance and optimal energy performance. During our conversation, Sarah offered a detailed walkthrough of the “as built” stage and its importance.
“As built” SAP calculations occur after a building’s completion and involve a series of assessments to ensure the structure complies with its initial design specifications. Sarah explained, “Once the building is finished, we conduct a thorough review to verify that all elements, from insulation to heating systems, are installed correctly and perform as expected.”
One of the pivotal components of this stage is the Air Pressure Test certificate. This test measures the building’s airtightness, which directly impacts its energy efficiency. Sarah noted, “The Air Pressure Test is crucial because it quantifies the amount of air leakage in the building envelope. Lower air leakage means better energy performance, which translates to lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint.”
Sarah went on to describe the process involved in obtaining the Air Pressure Test certificate. “A certified tester conducts the test by sealing the building and using specialised equipment to measure air leakage. The results are then documented in the certificate, which is a key requirement for the ‘as built’ SAP calculations.”
With the Air Pressure Test certificate in hand, the next step is conducting the SAP calculations. This involves inputting data from the completed building into specialised software to generate a detailed energy performance report. Sarah emphasised the importance of accuracy at this stage, saying, “Any discrepancies between the design stage SAP calculations and the actual ‘as built’ conditions need to be addressed. Accurate data ensures the building meets the required standards and avoids potential compliance issues.”
One of the challenges Sarah highlighted was the need for close collaboration between various stakeholders, including builders, architects, and SAP assessors. “Effective communication is vital,” she said. “Everyone involved in the project must be on the same page to ensure the building meets its energy performance targets.”
Sarah also shared a few tips for builders and developers to streamline the “as built” SAP calculation process. “Firstly, engage with a qualified SAP assessor early in the project. Their expertise can guide you through the design stage, ensuring that energy efficiency measures are incorporated from the outset. Secondly, maintain thorough documentation of all materials and systems used in the building. This information is invaluable when conducting the final assessments.”
Reflecting on her experiences in Aylesbury, Sarah expressed a sense of pride in the community’s commitment to sustainable building practices. “Aylesbury has a strong tradition of embracing energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. It’s rewarding to see so many projects not only meeting but exceeding the required standards.”
The benefits of achieving compliance at the “as built” stage extend beyond regulatory requirements. Sarah pointed out that buildings with high energy performance often enjoy increased market value and tenant satisfaction. “Energy-efficient buildings are more attractive to buyers and renters,” she explained. “They offer long-term savings on energy bills and contribute to a healthier living environment.”
As our conversation drew to a close, Sarah reiterated the importance of the “as built” SAP calculations in ensuring a building’s long-term performance. “This stage is not just a box-ticking exercise. It’s about delivering on the promise of a sustainable, energy-efficient future. By getting it right, we can create buildings that stand the test of time and serve the needs of our communities.”
In Aylesbury, and indeed across the UK, the “as built” stage of SAP calculations is a crucial step in the journey towards more sustainable and energy-efficient buildings. Thanks to the dedication and expertise of professionals like Sarah Bennett, the path to compliance and optimal performance is clearer and more achievable than ever.
-Marcia Snyder
Be the first to comment