Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) calculations are produced using a computer model.  They do not require the assessor to visit the site of the building.  As a result it is important that accurate and reliable information is submitted to the assessor.

The exact information required will vary from project to project and your assessor will discuss this with you.  However, the following items are typically required:

• The full postal address of the building.  This must include the correct postcode as confirmed by Royal Mail.
• A site plan including the orientation of the dwelling(s).
• Scaled plans of each storey of the building (normally at 1:100).
• Elevation drawings for each elevation.
• Sectional drawings of the dwelling.
• Details of the principal heating and hot water system.  This needs to include the make and model of boiler, details of heating emitters (e.g. radiators), hot water cylinder size (if applicable) and the system controls.
• Details of any secondary heating system present.
• Details of any cooling system present.
• Details of ventilation systems and/or extractor fans.
• Details of the internal and external lighting.
• Details of the construction of all the different floors to the property.  This needs to include the type and thicknesses of insulation and any other building products used.
• Details of the construction of all the different external walls to the property.  This needs to include the type and thicknesses of insulation and other building products used.
• Details of the construction of all the different roofs to the property.  This needs to include the type and thicknesses of insulation and other building products used.
• Details of all the doors and windows.  This needs to include the sizes, type of frame, type of glazing, thickness of glazing and any low emissivity applications (coatings) used.  A full window schedule including U-values for each unit (not just the glass) is the best way to achieve this.  Window schedules are usually readily available from window suppliers.
• Details of any renewable technologies (renewables) installed in the building.  These could include ground source heat pumps, air source heat pumps, solar water heating, photovoltaics (PV), wind turbines and/or hydrokinetic technologies.
• Details of any heat recovery systems installed.

If you are in the process of designing your building, the assessment will help you decide the minimum standards for each system to ensure that your finished building meets the required energy performance standards.