Frequently Asked Questions
Please click on the links below to take you to your relevant FAQ topic.
SAP 2009 Software FAQs
NB – The following section applies to the England & Wales Regs Region only and does not apply to Design SAP calculations carried out in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
What is Elmhurst’s Design SAP 2009 Software?
What are the main changes to SAP 2009 Calculations?
How do the new Building Regulations affect Accredited Construction Details (ACDs)?
How will this affect EPC lodgements?
What is Elmhurst's Design SAP 2009 Software?
Elmhurst‘s Design SAP 2009 Software has been designed to produce building energy calculations and is used to demonstrate compliance with the New Part L1 of the Building Regulations in England & Wales, and Section 6 of the Scottish Buildings Standards in Scotland. These latest changes to the Regulations came into effect on the 1st October 2010.
Design SAP 2009 received approval on 30th September 2010 was released to customers
What are the main changes to SAP 2009 Calculations?
The main changes include:
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Party Walls – these are to be included as heat loss elements due to the heat transmittance that can occur via the cavity. The notional building (used to calculate the TER) will assume a solid party wall with a default U-Value of 0.0Wm2K. If the cavity between dwellings is clear and unsealed, a default U-Value of 0.5W/m2K will be applied which will force the developer to improve the specification of this element. NB - the perimeter of the property should be measured using the same method as the previous version of SAP and should not include the party wall
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Party floors, internal floors, party roofs and party ceilings – these are to be included within the data entered into the calculation due to the heat transmittance that can occur through junctions in the building element
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The five compliance steps remain – DER ≤ TER, limits on design flexibility, limiting solar gains in summer, quality of construction and commissioning, and providing information
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Accredited Construction Details (ACDs) will be updated (see below)
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Two main heating systems can now be entered
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Default secondary heating – SAP will no longer account for any form of secondary heating unless a system has been specified
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Low Energy Light Fittings (LELs) – a minimum of 75% LEL fixings will now be required for compliance in SAP 2009
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SEDBUK, now known as the Product Characteristic Data File (PCDF), has increased its range of heating systems
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Thermal mass - now measured in kj/m2K and not W/m2K. SAP Table 1e will fully outline the default TMP options. Alternatively, it is possible to enter a precise calculation or manually enter the TMP value
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Sample testing regimes - the application of Air Permeability tests, and indeed the Air Permeability testing method as a whole, has been updated, resulting in the need for more testing
How do the new Building Regulations affect Accredited Construction Details (ACDs)?
The new 2009 Y-Values requirements must be followed, where possible. However, the guidance regarding the ACDs in Part L1a 2010 (P18, paragraph 5.9-514) will not be enforced until April 2011. The guidance regarding the addition of 25% or 0.02, whichever is greater, will not be applicable until April 2011 when it is expected that the independent verification scheme will be in place. To enter the ACDs, there are three options – the first is to enter the manufacturer’s calculated value, the second is to enter the default ACD figures available from schemes such as EST or, thirdly, the thermal bridging could be calculated and the score entered into the relevant input box.
How will this affect EPC lodgements?
EPC lodgements using SAP 2009 have been delayed until 27th March 2011 in order to allow Landmark to fully update their systems to ensure full functionality. In order to comply with the revised legislation, it will be necessary for assessors to utilise both SAP 2005 and SAP 2009 versions of the Elmhurst Design SAP software in order to cover four possible scenarios. The table below illustrates when each software version should be used:
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Project Commencement (Calculation) |
Construction Completed (EPC) |
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Pre 1st Oct 2010 – SAP 2005 |
-> Pre 27th March 2011 – SAP 2005 |
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Pre 1st Oct 2010 – SAP 2005 |
-> Post 27th March 2011 – SAP 2009 |
|
Post 1st Oct 2010 – SAP 2009 |
-> Pre 27th March 2011 – SAP 2005 |
|
Post 1st Oct 2010 – SAP 2009 |
-> Post 27th March 2011 – SAP 2009 |
We would point out that the SAP2005 Design software will remain fully functional whilst required and we will continue to support both SAP2005 and SAP2009 versions.
To view information on the training for On Construction Domestic Energy Assessors (OCDEAs), Design SAP 2005 & Building Regulations Awareness courses please click here.
New Build Dwelling FAQs
What is this relevance of the National Occupational Standards (NOS)?
I have previously trained via another provider e.g. NHER, Northgate etc. What do I need to do?
Does Elmhurst provide any Business Opportunities at the end of the course?
Can I fail the Elmhurst Design SAP2005 course?
I have been a user of the Elmhurst Design Software for some time, but I didn’t attend any SAP2005 Update course; I would like to produce EPCs, how do I go about it?
This is OK; you need to attend the new Design SAP2005 Course, provide 5 EPCs for assessment, and then join the Elmhurst Accreditation Scheme. You must also remember you need an up to date copy of the Design SAP Software. If you have completed these steps, you will then be able to produce EPCs.
I am not a member of a professional body and realise that I need to show a level of knowledge and understanding against the new National Occupational Standards (NOS) for soft skills – why do I need to do this?
Although you are very likely to have all the skills necessary on soft skills such as health and safety, client relationships etc. in your present or previous positions; all persons who obtain a licence through the APEL route must prove and demonstrate that they do meet the required standards. We at Elmhurst have produced a comprehensive distance learning module which is easy to understand and covers all the required knowledge and understanding, by undertaking the assessment questions in this module, you will clearly show to Government that you are of the correct standard required.
What is this relevance of the National Occupational Standards (NOS)?
The Government use independent bodies called Sector Skills Councils, and in the case of the construction industry, one called Asset Skills, to write the NOS for energy rating buildings. The NOS define the level of skills, knowledge and understanding required to be able to competently undertake a particular job. This then forms the standard by which individuals will be judged in regards to competence by the Accreditation Scheme or when completing a formal qualification.
Elmhurst have been granted the ability to use the Approved Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) to ensure existing skilled persons can become licensed to produce EPCs without having to undertake a formal qualification. Basically Elmhurst will map your existing skills against the framework (NOS) and allow you to fill in the missing blanks to complete a full set of necessary skills.
The Government want to have a qualification for New Build On-Construction Energy Assessment. It is understood this qualifications will become available for new entrants in the near future; which will be the appropriate route for persons new to this industry. We will endeavour to keep our customers informed when such an option is available.
How many new build EPCs do Government think will be needed in the first year? And how many persons do they expect they require to enable their production?
This figure is clearly based on current market conditions and the number of new build dwellings likely to be built in 2008-09. CLG expect the figure to be around 150,000 new dwellings per annum, this is due to rise to approx 220,000 per annum over the next 5 years.
So for example if we assume a licensed accredited SAP assessor produces say 10 SAPs per week, a full time assessor would produce 400 and 500 SAPs per year, meaning that the entire market would require between 300 and 550 full time SAP assessors.
I have previously trained via another provider e.g. NHER, Northgate etc. What do I need to do?
This shows you have experience and knowledge in the provision of SAP rating calculations, these experiences can be quite varied; to ensure consistency and quality, and more importantly to understand the Elmhurst SAP Software and standards, you can apply, but you will have to undertake the current training course; which will embrace your skill set and expand to complete the knowledge and understanding required for this APEL route.
Although I am experienced person in this industry I have never undertaken any formal training on SAP, is this scheme for me?
A. The Elmhurst APEL route is available to all persons with skills which can be mapped against the relevant NOS; the aim of which is to fill in the missing sections from the NOS e.g. detailed and comprehensive training on EPCs, SAP2005, U-values, domestic heating systems, renewable technology etc. The three day training course, materials and assessment will provide you with all the necessary skills. Please note this is not a route for new entrants without construction industry experience, and they should wait for new formal qualification route to be available or undertake getting practical SAP experience by working with or for another accredited assessor.
Does Elmhurst offer any business opportunities at the end of the course?
A. Elmhurst are experts in training and providing software solutions to persons and organisations, to let them provide SAP calculations and EPCs to their own customers. Although we will not be directly offering work or contacts for SAP and EPC work, we will certainly help to direct our members to opportunities where they exist via our website and newsletters. We strongly expect persons to do there own marketing and understand their business opportunities.
If I am already qualified as a Domestic Energy Assessor, why can I not produce an RdSAP rating on a new build property?
Legislation is very different for new build properties as opposed to sales of existing properties. The Government are linking the production of a Building Regulation/standards calculation as the trigger point to produce the EPC. This is advantageous to a developer who has to employ one person to produce and guide them through the Building Regs/standards procedure and also upon completion legally produce the required EPC. Most importantly the on construction SAP calculation and EPC is produced off plan and is not done on-site, and hence has a very different skill set required by the assessors for example detailed understanding of the necessary regulations vs. surveying skills that are required to assess an existing property.
Furthermore the new build construction industry and the provision of Building Regulations/standards and EPC production is a very different market to the offering of EPCs as part of the Home Information Packs on sales of existing homes. Different DEA courses are available for this separate market sector.
I think I understand the new system, but could you please advise me of a typical new build project from design stage to the production of an EPC, preferable in layman’s language!
The requirement for EPCs on construction has slightly changed what traditionally happens within the industry for building regulation purposes, and the APEL route enables experienced SAP assessors already in the market place to join our Accreditation Scheme and continue to provide their customers with their Building Regulations/Standards provisions and then also the EPCs.
To make it clearer the general process is as follows:
Step 1: Developer designs a new build dwelling
Step 2: The SAP assessor will advise and check with the developer at this design stage that the dwelling complies with the minimum standards in the relevant Building Regs/standards, by using the Elmhurst Design SAP2005 software.
Step 3: Once the dwelling complies, then SAP assessor will provide the Design Stage Compliance Checklist from the software to the relevant Building Control Body (BCB) and provide a Predicted Energy Assessment (PEA) to the developer/client – which is an estimate of what the final EPC will say, assuming the dwelling is built as designed.
Step 4: Construction phase of dwelling
Step 5: Once completed, the same SAP assessor can recalculate the SAP rating, to ensure that it reflects the dwelling as actually built and includes certain additional information only available once construction has been completed e.g. pressure test results, name and make of boiler etc.
Step 6: The licensed SAP assessor who is also a member of the Elmhurst Accreditation Scheme can at the click of a button upload the dataset to the members area of the Elmhurst website, and this will lodge the report in the Governments central registry and instantaneously sending back, direct to the SAP assessor the EPC.
Step 7: The final as-built Compliance Checklist and EPC are submitted to the relevant BCB for approval enabling the Completion Certificate to be provided
The new part to the process is clearly Step 6, which is why we are encouraging all SAP assessors to join the scheme, as we believe clients will want a one stop shop for building regulation/standards calculations and provision of the EPC.
Can I fail the Elmhurst Design SAP2005 course?
Yes is ultimately the answer, if you can’t complete the necessary assessments of competence to the required Government Standards then it is possible to fail. Please read the section on the application form for further clarification of the rules and procedures in such circumstances.
What is a U-Value?
A U value expresses the ability of a material to allow heat to transfer across it. The technical equation is Watts /metre2 x degrees Kelvin)
A low U value means the material has high resistance to the transfer of heat. The U value of all building materials is known and the composition of materials side by side in a structural element results in a U value for that element i.e. walls, roof, floors, windows, etc
Elmhurst Energy Accreditation FAQs
What do I need to do to become an Elmhurst Accredited Energy Assessor?
How do I get my details to appear on the Landmark Register?
As an Elmhurst Accredited Energy Assessor - will you be providing me with work?
What are panel providers and how do they work?
Is it possible to be Accredited on more than one Accreditation scheme?
Is it possible to trial the Elmhurst RDSAP software before I purchase?
I have recently changed my contact details, how do I communicate this to Elmhurst Energy?
Is there an Energy Assessor Accreditation logo? If so, where can I find it?
What do I need to do to become an Elmhurst Accredited Energy Assessor?
If you want to become an Accredited Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA):
- Complete in full the relevant application form (please click here for all forms)
- With your application form please also send in a copy of your DEA qualification certificate issued by either ABBE, City & Guilds or NFOPP (NAEA)
- Send us your original Disclosure Certificate with your application. (All disclosure certificates submitted for initial Accreditation must be within 3 months old)
- Enclose a passport size photograph with your applictaion form (This is needed to create your Accredited ID card)
- A copy of your Passport or Photo Driving Licence is also required (For verifictation of your details/photograph)
- Payment must be supplied with the application form. Cheques or supplying card details are both acceptable methods of payment.
If you want to become an Accredited APEL (Approved Prior Experiential Learning) New Constructed Dwellings (NCD) Assessor:
- Complete in full the relevant application form (please click here for all forms)
- Please supply us with evidence of Professional Indemnity Insurance to a minimum of £250,000.
- With your application form we also require evidence of your professional membership/qualification where applicable.
- Payment must be supplied with the application form. Cheques or supplying card details are both acceptable methods of payment.
If you want to become an Accredited Commercial (CEA) level 3 or 4 or DECs Energy Assessor:
- Complete in full the relevant application form (please click here for all forms)
- Please send us evidence of your formal qualification appropriate for the scheme(s) you are applying for - these would be issued by NFOPP (NAEA), ABBE or City & Guilds
- Please supply us with evidence of Professional Indemnity Insurance
- Payment must be supplied with the application form. Cheques or supplying card details are both acceptable methods of payment.
If you want to become an Accredited APEL (Approved Prior Experiential Learning) Display Energy Certificate (DECs) Assessor:
- Complete in full the relevant application form (please click here for all forms)
- Please send us evidence of professional membership / qualification where applicable
- Please supply us with evidence of Professional indemnity insurance
- Payment must be supplied with the application form. Cheques or supplying card details are both acceptable methods of payment.
If you want to become an Accredited APEL (Approved Prior Experiential Learning) Commercial Energy Assessor (CEA):
- Complete in full the relevant application form (please click here for all forms)
- Please send us evidence of professional membership / qualification where applicable
- Please supply us with evidence of Professional indemnity insurance
- Payment must be supplied with the application form. Cheques or supplying card details are both acceptable methods of payment.
How do I get my details to appear on the Landmark Register?
All Energy Assessors Accredited with Elmhurst are automatically uploaded to the Landmark Register at the end of the working day. Please note, it takes up to 24 hours for details entered into the Landmark Register to update.
As an Elmhurst Accredited Energy Assessor - will you be providing me with work?
Elmhurst Energy Systems is an expert in providing the software and training solutions to individuals -enabling them to provide Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and Display Energy Certificates (DECs) for their own customers.
Elmhurst Energy do not participate in communicating direct contacts or positions that would lead to EPC production. However, we will certainly help to direct our Accredited Energy Assessors to opportunities where they exist, via our website and regular newsletters. Elmhurst Energy highly recommend that Accredited Energy Assessors undertake their own marketing activity and understand their own business opportunities.
If you send your application to Elmhurst Energy fully complete, signed and with all the relevant information i.e. payment, Disclosure Certificate, evidence of Professional Indemnity Insurance etc... then the process to become Accredited will take seven to ten working days.
What are panel providers and how do they work?
Panel Providers are companies who employ Accredited Energy Assessors, either on an employed or self employed basis, to produce Energy Performance Certificates. Please click here to view our ‘Energy Assessors Business Opportunities’ page, details of Panel Providers can be found here.
Is it possible to be Accredited on more than one Accreditation scheme?
Yes, it is possible for an individual to have more than one Energy Assessor Accreditation. The cost for an additional Accreditation will be charged at the relevant renewal rate.
Is it possible to trial the Elmhurst RDSAP software before I purchase?
Elmhurst Energy offer DEMO software within the members area of this site. Please contact our Accreditation or Software Support department to obtain an access code and password.
I have recently changed my contact details, how do I communicate this to Elmhurst Energy?
If at any point you change your contact details during your Accreditation with Elmhurst Energy you must notify us as soon as possible.Please contact our accreditation team on 01455 883 253 to inform us of your change of details. Elmhurst Energy will also notify the Lanmark Register of your change of details.
Is there an Energy Assessor Accreditation logo? If so, where can I find it?
All Energy Assessors Accredited with Elmhurst are entitled to display the Energy Assessor Accreditation logo on communications to their customers i.e. letter headed paper, website etc... The Energy Assessor Accreditation logo is located in the ‘documents download’ section within the members area. The Accredited logo is available in two formats - a format suitable for web use and a higher resolution format that should be used for all printed communications. Please take note of the Elmhurst Energy brand guidelines when using the logos, the guidelines are there to ensure the correct use of the Accredited logo and are in place to protect the high quality representation of the Elmhurst brand.
Is the previous version of the Elmhurst Accreditation logo invalid now that there is a new version available?
No, Elmhurst Energy have recently launch a new brand image and this includes a change in appearance of the Accreditation logo. The previous green and blue version is entirely valid and will remain valid. However, we would recommend that you do start to implement the new Accreditation logo where possible on your communications to your customers to keep you up to date with the new Elmhurst brand image. The new logo is available in the members area in a format suitable for web and also printed communications.
I am thinking of attending a training course offered by another training provider, although I’m not sure if they are approved by Elmhurst?
Unlike some other accreditation schemes, Elmhurst offers a flexible approach to CPD. We do not insist that you come on our own CPD events and we do not charge training companies to get approval from us. So as long as the course is relevant to your CPD plan and is from a mainstream training provider it is likely to meet the Elmhurst CPD monitoring requirement. When we monitor CPD there will be a presumption that Energy Assessors are sourcing relevant material, but we do insist that you document your activities in a CPD plan and that you keep evidence of attendance at events or notes of private structured study.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) FAQs
I have read a book about heating systems, can I claim this as CPD?
My CPD plan contains some non-technical topics, is this acceptable?
What are the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements for an Accredited Energy Assessor?
The amount of CPD required will depend on how many different strands the assessor is accredited on. 10 Hours of CPD per accreditation year is required for the first strand that the surveyor is accredited on, if they are accredited on any other strand an additional 5 hours of CPD per strand will be required. NDEA Level 3, 4 and DECs will count as one strand for example: if you are accredited as a DEA and an NDEA you will need to provide us with 15 hours of CPD.
I have read a book about heating systems, can I claim this as CPD?
Simply reading a book is not structured private reading and therefore cannot be claimed as CPD. However, if you have written a synopsis listing the topics covered and what was personally learned from the study and state how many hours you are claiming. You will need to be realistic about the hours of CPD you can claim.
My CPD plan contains some non-technical topics, is this acceptable?
The CPD study can also include personal and professional development, so if you plan to develop your management skills or presentation skills, in addition to keeping in touch with energy matters this is fine as long as at least 50% of your study is on energy related matter, the other 50% could be for non-energy subjects, such as other aspects of building construction or wider business related topics (time management, marketing, health and safety etc).
