Frequently Asked Questions

SAP Calculation FAQ

• How is a SAP Calculation carried out?

Our SAP Calculations are all carried out 'off plan', which means that no site visit is required.  We will ask for pdf versions of the plans, elevations and also section drawings (if you have sloping ceilings within the property) in order to carry out the work for you.  We will also ask questions regarding the construction and heating etc within the property.

• I don't have any plans of the property, will you still be able to carry out the SAP Calculation for me?

No, sorry... we do require plans of the building in order to carry out our SAP Calculation service.  We recommend that you ask your architect for plans of the building, which you can then send on to us.

• What is the turnaround time for a SAP Calculation?

Once we have all of the required information and plans from yourself, our turnaround time is approximately 5-10 working days.

• If the calculation is failing the building regulations standards, will you give advice on how to pass?

Yes, advice on how to meet with regulations is included within our fee.

• My property was an office before, and has been changed into a flat, do I need a SAP?

Yes, the conversion from non-domestic to domestic has created a new dwelling, so you will require a SAP calculation.  Where an EPC is required for a new dwelling under Building Regulations it must be a SAP EPC (As Built EPC). Any new dwelling, including dwellings created by change of use, must be assessed using SAP.

• What if one large house has been split in to two houses?

​These will both require SAP Calculations.

• I've been living in the property for a couple of years - does it still count as new?

​For this purpose a new dwelling is, in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, one completed on or after the relevant date. The relevant date is 6 April 2008 in E&W.  This means that if you building was built/converted after this date and you haven't already got a SAP Calculation, you will require one.  We are not permitted to carry out standard EPCs on these building unless a SAP is already in place.

• I have been asked for an EPC as well as a SAP calculation.  How can I get an EPC?

For new-build dwellings and conversions, the final 'As Built' EPC is produced using the SAP Calculations, once the building is complete.  Before we are able to lodge the EPC, we will ask for the Air Permeability Test, a signed developers confirmation and also signed ACDs (if applicable).

• How much does a SAP Calculation cost?

Each job is individually quoted.  If you would like a quotation, please contact us using our online form.

Water Efficiency Calculation FAQ

• How is a Water Efficiency Calculation carried out?

The calculation is a desk-based exercise so that no site visit is required for this.  We will request information from you regarding the make/model of water fixtures and fittings such as the taps and shower etc.

• If the calculation is failing the building regulations standards, will you give advice on how to pass?

Yes, advice on how to meet with regulations is included within our fee.

• How long does it take to carry out the Water Efficiency Calculation?

Once we receive all the necessary information for you, the calculations take approximately 5 working days (although this can be done quicker if necessary).

• Will I receive a certificate/document once the calculations are complete?

Yes, we will issue you with a document that can be submitted to Building Control, to show that the building meets with Part G of the building regulations.

• How do I get a quote for a Water Efficiency Calculation?

Please complete the form on our website page (Water Efficiency Calculation) and we will respond to you by email with a quote.

Air Permeability Test FAQ

• How is an Air Permeability Test carried out?

The Air Permeability Test requires a site visit, which will be arranged by appointment.

• At what point in the construction, should the Air Permeability Test be carried out?

The test should be carried out once the new-build dwelling is complete and when the building is fully sealed. 

• Will I receive a certificate/document once the calculations are complete?

Yes, you will be issued with a document that can be submitted to your SAP assessor, to show the result of the Air Permeability Test.  The result will form part of the SAP Calculation at the As Built stage (when the construction is complete).  The SAP assessor can only produce the final As Built EPC once the Air Permeability Test result has been received.

• How do I get a quote for an Air Permeability Test?

Please complete the form on our website page (Air Permeability Test) and we will respond to you by email with a quote.

Sound Test FAQ

• How is a Sound Test carried out?

The Sound Test requires a site visit, which will be arranged by appointment.

• Which types of properties require a Sound Test?

Sound Tests are required for some new-build dwellings and conversions that have party walls or party floors.  Your Building Control Officer will let you know if you require a Sound Test.

• ​How do I get a quote for a Sound Test?

Please complete the form on our website page (Sound Test) and we will respond to you by email with a quote.

Ventilation Test FAQ

• How is a Ventilation Test carried out?

The Ventilation Test requires a site visit, which will be arranged by appointment.

• Do I need to have a Ventilation Test?

All new build dwellings require a Part F ventilation test however building control do not always ask for it.

• How do I get a quote for an Ventilation Test?

Please complete the form on our website page (Ventilation Test) and we will respond to you by email with a quote.