In the UK construction and property sector, compliance with energy efficiency regulations has never been more important. Whether you are constructing a brand-new home or developing a commercial building, you must meet specific government standards before a property can be legally sold, rented, or signed off by Building Control. Two of the most essential assessments you will come across are SAP calculations for new builds and the Non-Domestic EPC.
At Coventry Property Certification, we specialise in helping developers, builders, architects, and property owners navigate these compliance requirements quickly and accurately. This blog explains what SAP calculations are, why they are required, the importance of non-domestic EPCs, and how our professional assessors can streamline the process for your project.
What Are SAP Calculations for New Build?
SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) calculations measure the energy performance and carbon emissions of a newly built property. For every new dwelling in the UK—whether a house, apartment, or conversion—SAP calculations are mandatory.
Why SAP Calculations Are Required
Building Regulations Part L demand that all new homes meet minimum energy performance standards. SAP calculations ensure that:
The building is energy-efficient
Carbon emission targets are achieved
Adequate insulation and air-tightness levels are designed
Suitable heating, cooling, ventilation, and lighting systems are selected
Without SAP calculations for new build projects, you cannot obtain an On Construction EPC, and your development cannot be signed off.
When Do You Need SAP Calculations?
You will need SAP calculations:
At the design stage – to ensure the building meets compliance before construction begins
At the as-built stage – when final specifications and test results (e.g., air-tightness) are available
Coventry Property Certification provides both design-stage and as-built SAP assessments, ensuring your project stays compliant from start to finish.
How SAP Calculations Work
SAP assessors use architectural drawings, specifications, and thermal details to model the property’s energy performance. Key factors assessed include:
Wall, roof, and floor insulation values
Window and door energy ratings
Heating system efficiency
Cooling and ventilation systems
Renewable technologies like solar PV or heat pumps
Air permeability results
Based on these inputs, SAP calculations generate:
Dwelling Emission Rate (DER)
Target Emission Rate (TER)
Fabric Energy Efficiency (FEE)
Your property must pass all these standards for compliance.
If results fall short, Coventry Property Certification offers cost-effective solutions and recommendations, such as improved insulation levels, alternative heating systems, or renewable energy options.
What Is a Non-Domestic EPC?
A Non-Domestic EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) is required for all commercial properties in the UK when being newly constructed, sold, or rented. This includes:
Offices
Retail units
Warehouses
Restaurants
Industrial buildings
Public buildings
Hotels
The certificate rates the building from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and includes recommendations for improving energy performance.
Why a Non-Domestic EPC Is Important
A non-domestic EPC helps:
Property owners understand energy usage
Businesses reduce operational costs
Building managers plan upgrades
Buyers and tenants make informed decisions
Ensure compliance with UK energy regulations
Failing to obtain a valid EPC can lead to significant penalties, so it is essential for commercial landlords and developers to stay compliant.
How Coventry Property Certification Supports Your Compliance
Coventry Property Certification offers a complete suite of energy assessment services, including SAP calculations for new builds and non-domestic EPCs, making us a one-stop solution for property developers and commercial building owners.
Why Choose Us?
✅ Fast Turnaround Times
We deliver quick, accurate reports to avoid any construction or sale delays.
✅ Fully Qualified Assessors
Our team consists of experienced, certified energy professionals.
✅ Cost-Effective Services
We provide affordable assessment packages for developers, architects, and landlords.
✅ Compliance Guaranteed
We guide you through all regulatory requirements to ensure your building meets Part L standards and EPC legislation.
✅ Support from Design to Completion
Whether it’s SAP calculations for new builds or obtaining your non-domestic EPC, we support the entire process.
SAP Calculations for New Builds: Our Process
Submit Your Plans
Provide floor plans, elevations, sections, and specifications.We Complete the Assessment
Our experts run full SAP modelling using industry-certified software.Receive Recommendations (If Needed)
We advise on insulation, heating, renewables, and design adjustments.Final SAP & EPC Issued
Once the building is complete, we issue your On Construction EPC.
Non-Domestic EPCs: Our Simple Workflow
Book an Assessment
A qualified assessor visits your site.Data Collection
We inspect heating, lighting, ventilation, insulation, and building layout.Energy Modelling
We create an accurate EPC using approved software.Certificate Issued
You receive your commercial EPC with recommendations for improvements.
When Should You Contact Us?
You should reach out to Coventry Property Certification if you are:
Building a new home and need SAP calculations
Converting an existing building into a dwelling
Constructing a commercial property
Selling or renting a business property that requires a non-domestic EPC
Seeking expert guidance on energy compliance
We are always ready to provide tailored support for architects, contractors, and property developers.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re developing a residential home or a commercial building, compliance with UK energy regulations is a must. Both SAP calculations for new build projects and non-domestic EPCs ensure that your property is energy-efficient, environmentally responsible, and legally compliant.
At Coventry Property Certification, we make the entire process simple, affordable, and stress-free. From design-stage assessments to final certification, our experienced team is here to support your project at every step.
