SAP Calculations for Scotland

Whereas building work in England and Wales is controlled through Building Regulations, projects in Scotland must instead conform to Building Standards. The requirements of Building Standards depend upon the type of build:

New Builds in Scotland

New builds in Scotland require a SAP calculation, which is very similar to those required in England and Wales.

As part of a SAP assessment, you will be asked to demonstrate that your new build does not exceed a unique target for carbon emissions. Many designs do not comply with the minimum Building Standards requirements, and regulations can vary depending on when and where you started your build.

We can help you overcome these hurdles easily and quickly.

Extensions in Scotland

Projects such as conservatories and extensions require Heat Loss Calculations to demonstrate acceptable thermal performance. The minimum performance can vary depending on the rest of the property, and a SAP Assessment for the whole dwelling may also be used to show compliance.

We can work with you and your Building Control Officer and advise on the most suitable route to a pass.

Conversions in Scotland

Conversions in Scotland require Heat Loss Calculations to demonstrate acceptable thermal performance under Building Standards. This applies to both existing elements which may need upgrading, and minimum performance for any new construction or services.

We can guide you through the options and help you to specify thermal upgrades and services which will make the most positive impact on the your build.

We work with clients to firstly establish the requirements of Building Standards in their region and offer feedback on their designs to achieve compliance. We carry out the SAP Assessment from architects drawings and from the building and heating products that you specify, meaning that there’s no need for site visits.

We will always help you to overcome any non compliant elements at design stage, providing solutions and feedback for achieving a pass so that you can commence the build safely.

Further reading:

• SAP in Scotland
• Gold Silver and Bronze in Scotland
• Section 6 Action Plans in Scotland
• SAP Differences across UK

Scottish projects follow the same general SAP process as English ones – for a full overview, see our guide to SAP calculations. Most Scottish residential schemes also need an Energy Statement for the planning application. Return to the Part L SAP Calculations hub.

How does Section 6 differ from Part L in England?

Section 6 of the Scottish Building Standards covers energy in a similar way to Part L in England and Wales, but uses different compliance metrics. Scotland requires a Carbon Dioxide Emissions Rate (CDER) rather than Target Emissions Rate, and applies its own fabric standards and notional building specifications.

What is a Carbon Dioxide Emissions Rate (CDER)?

The Carbon Dioxide Emissions Rate (CDER) is the primary carbon compliance metric for new buildings in Scotland under Section 6. It must be equal to or lower than the Target Carbon Dioxide Emissions Rate (TDER) for the building to comply with Scottish Building Standards.

Who verifies Section 6 compliance in Scotland?

In Scotland, building standards are administered by local authority Verifiers rather than building control officers as in England. The SAP calculation and associated documentation are submitted to the relevant Verifier for checking and approval.

Do conversions in Scotland also require SAP calculations?

Yes. Conversions creating new dwellings in Scotland are subject to Section 6 of the Scottish Building Standards and require SAP calculations in the same way as new builds. The assessor must be accredited and familiar with Scottish requirements.

Can the same SAP assessor work across Scotland and England?

Accredited SAP assessors can work across the whole of the UK, but they need to be familiar with the differences between Part L (England/Wales) and Section 6 (Scotland). Build Energy produces SAP calculations for projects across all regions and is experienced in meeting the specific requirements of Scottish Verifiers.