SOCOTEC SAP Services: Building Physics Excellence
SOCOTEC provides Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) building physics solutions that aim to support a modern construction industry concerned by climate change.
There’s an additional level of compliance that is required in order to support the shifting regulatory landscape currently ongoing in the UK, namely the upcoming Future Homes Standard (FHS).
When the FHS consultation launched in 2023, it was expected that the Home Energy Model (HEM) would be the sole compliance tool. However, following feedback from industry the government has opted to allow a new updated SAP 10.3 version to be used as an interim methodology.
It will now feature a new notional dwelling, updated carbon and primary energy factors, and refinements to the current SAP 10 to support compliance with the FHS, thus ensuring more energy efficient homes will be delivered.
In short, this means both SAP 10.3 and HEM can be used during a phased transition - the timelines of which will become clearer once the FHS regulations are laid before Parliament.
But how can companies get ahead and prepare for the FHS? SOCOTEC’s core services focus on regulatory compliance, energy efficiency optimisation, and occupant comfort.
Our accredited SOCOTEC experts deliver specialised building physics assessments essential for regulatory compliance, broken down into main areas:
Overheating Analysis
We use dynamic thermal modelling to evaluate potential overheating risks, according to CIBSE TM59/TM52 standards. From there, we identify vulnerable areas with evidence-based recommendations for temperature management, while solutions generally look at balancing comfort requirements with energy efficiency considerations.
Water Calculations
Our technical water consumption forecasting is aligned with regulatory standards, although the efficiency evaluations we employ in order to meet sustainability requirements. Further to helping support the climate, we can technically analyse rainwater harvesting and the possibility of greywater recycling.
Excess Glazing Assessment
Through technical analysis, the benefits of natural light usage in buildings can be balanced against thermal performance. Similarly, shading strategies can be evaluated, as well as thermal bridging identification – alongside solar gain analysis and G-value optimisation.
These specialised services complement our core energy assessment capabilities. This includes Part L compliance certification, as build-verification testing and thermal performance calculations – all designed to fit within current regulations and prepare for the transition to the FHS.
We are also able to further SAP services, such as Energy Performance Certificates and air permeability testing.
It is critical to support building projects, throughout their entire lifecycle – something our technical expertise and analytical services aim to address, to ensure buildings can both fully utilise their lifespan as well as complying with the latest regulations.
SOCOTEC can support all your SAP requirements: contact our building physics team today for expert guidance and practical solutions for your projects.
Want to learn more about our SAP Services, email us at kerry.moulds@socotec.co.uk or call
07779131647
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