Builders

Frequently asked questions

1. Q. What is DER and TER?

A. TER Calculation: The Target C02 Emission Rate (TER) is the minimum energy performance requirements for new dwellings.

DER Calculation: The DER is the proposed CO2 Emission Rate for the new Dwelling.

2. Q. What is a SAP?

A. Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) is expressed on a scale of 1 to 120 and is the method of rating the energy efficiency of dwellings required for new homes and conversions under the Building Regulations.

3. Q. What is a PEA?

A. Currently Predicted Energy Assessment certificates (PEA) are required for the Home information Pack (HIP), for SOME homes, from the first point of marketing:

All new build homes built under Part L of 2006 Building Regs ARE CURRENTLY EXEMPT, whilst those built to pre-2006 Regs require a Predicted Energy Assessment (PEA). Properties under construction (sold off-plan) will need a PEA for the HIP instead of the full EPC, as that is only possible upon physical completion. If a property remains on the market after it has been physically completed, then the PEA must be replaced with a full EPC.

4. Q. What is an EPC?

A. Previously, Building Regs required energy ratings for dwellings on a worst case basis. In future EVERY new home must be assessed when physically completed to produce an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) that must be given to the homeowner, with evidence provided to Building Control.

This is due to the Government's implementation of the EUs Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD). It is being introduced in phases, both for dwellings and other buildings, from 6th April 2008.

Details of the phases and dates of introduction can be found here.

5. Q. What is SBEM?

A. SBEM is the 'Simplified Building Energy Method' - for communal parts of flatted developments where communal heating is provided, and for non-residential buildings.

6. Q. What is NHER?

A. The National Home Energy Rating (NHER), expressed to one decimal place on a scale of 0 to 20, assesses the total energy used by a home on a site-specific basis. Additional information on estimated running costs, carbon dioxide emissions and options for improving specific ratings is also available.

7. Q. What is air leakage testing (ALT)?

A. air leakage testing (ALT) involves installing a powerful fan and sensitive pressure monitoring gear in a dwelling, which is then depressurised. The data is analysed on a computer to determine the leakage rate per square metre of external fabric.