SBEM: Conversions
When a commercial building is altered, it is possible that it has undergone a ‘material change of use’. This term is applied if:
- The building is converted into a hotel or a boarding house
- The building is converted into an institution
- The building is converted into a public building
- The building now contains a room for residential purposes
- The building is converted into a shop
If a material change of use has taken place, then we can provide SBEM calculations and Energy Performance Certificates to satisfy the requirements of Building Control.
To pass the SBEM calculation, and comply with Approved Document L2, the cumulative CO2 emission rate for the buildings that are converted must be no greater than would have been the case had each building been built to the minimum standards of Approved Document L2.
SBEM stands for ‘Simplified Building Energy Model’, the Government’s method for calculating the energy performance of non-domestic buildings. SBEM forms part of the Government’s plan to limit carbon emissions and tackle fuel poverty.
Our SBEM assessors can provide you with support throughout the process, ensuring that you have everything required to achieve pass.
What we do
It is common for projects that we assess to achieve a pass first time. If your project does not achieve a pass, we can provide solutions to ensure that your designs meet compliance. These could include changes to the thermal insulation of the building fabric or changes to the parameters of the mechanical and electrical specification.
Once changes have been agreed we shall issue design-stage SBEM reports that can be provided to Building Control.
When construction work is complete we will update the SBEM calculations, taking account of any alterations to the design, and shall issue a copy of the Energy Performance Certificate.
MEES
As part of our assessment we shall provide advice on cost effective solutions to ensure each building achieves an EPC rating that complies with the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards. The Government introduced MEES in April 2020, and since then landlords have been prohibited from renting out any of their properties with EPC ratings of F or G, unless they have a valid exemption in place.
What the SBEM assessor needs
- Floor plans, elevation drawings, section drawings and a site plan.
- Construction specification.
- Mechanical and electrical specification.
- Details of any proposed renewable technology.
Why choose Achieve Green?
Quick, competitive and accurate SBEM calculations.
Comprehensive advice and support to ensure you arrive at the most cost-effective and practical solution to achieve compliance.
One single fee, which will cover:
- Advice service necessary for each dwelling to achieve a pass.
- SBEM calculations for design-stage and as-built submissions.
- U-value calculations.
- Energy Performance Certificates.
COMPETITIVE
Fast and accurate assessments at a competitive price.
EXPERIENCED
Comprehensive advice and support to ensure you arrive at the most economic and feasible solution to achieve compliance.
QUALIFIED
You can take comfort that the certificates we provide will be accepted as evidence for Building Regulations sign-off.
VALUE
Best quality advice, at a price that offers real value for money.
Testimonials
We are an RIBA Chartered Architectural Practice based on the South Coast, and have used the services of the Achieve Green team in Tunbridge Wells on countless projects over many years, mainly for the preparation of SAP calculations but also energy statements and air pressure testing across a broad range of projects. They have offered us invaluable practical advice on more complex projects to ensure compliance with the ever evolving statutory standards and we have always found them to provide a prompt, efficient, friendly and cost effective service and would not hesitate to recommend them.
Lightbox Architecture Limited
We have found the Achieve Green team to be highly experienced, specialised and competent. Advice is constructive and their approach to projects is strategic, ensuring the most effective solutions are taken forward. The team has a comprehensive understanding of planning requirements and appreciates how these translate into technical and on-site delivery. We highly recommend the team and look forward to working with them on forthcoming projects.
Kitewood Estates Ltd
As a business we have been involved with Achieve Green for a number of years. Their proactive involvement in our projects from design through to completion has enabled us to continually improve the energy efficiency of all our homes. The prompt and efficient service has meant they have become an integral part of our design team.
Panfile Ltd
I have been working with Jonathan and his Achieve Green team in Tunbridge Wells since 2011 on a range of projects from Schools, new build housing to straightforward extensions. They are very knowledgeable and efficient and have provided invaluable input to projects over the years ensuring that as a designer I can put forward the most cost effective solutions to complying with Part L.I always recommend Jonathan if ever anybody is in need of SAP and compliance testing services.
Bradbury Design Ltd