SBEM Calculations & Commercial Part L Compliance

The calculations are needed for all, new non-domestic buildings, that are standalone and over 50m2. SBEM can also be used to demonstrate compliance with Part L when a commercial building is extended, extensively refurbished, or has a change of use.

We use advanced 3D modelling software to undertake the calculations. We construct a 3D computer model from the drawings supplied and then populate all the rooms with various data, including the following:

• Building fabric

• Lighting

• Heating

• Cooling

• Ventilation

• Hot water

• Renewable energy

The calculation methodology then analyses the building as a whole to produce a document known as a BRUKL (Building Regulations UK Part L), which shows the predicted building emissions and energy rates. These are compared to targets, which the building has to meet.

There are minimum standards required for all of the above listed aspects (except renewable energy, which is optional, but sometimes necessary) but passing Part L is the sum of all parts and minimum standards must be surpassed to ensure compliance.

We have experienced, non-domestic energy assessors qualified to carry out SBEM calculations, or DSM calculations, on buildings of all complexities (level 4 and level 5).

We carry out all assessments in house, nothing is sub-contracted, and with over 15 years’ experience working in the sector, we are well placed to advise on your proposed design and help suggest the best options to achieve compliance.

We highly recommend you contact us at design stage, to ensure that the proposals you have are going to meet Part L of the Building Regulations. However, if you have already reached the ‘as built’ stage, we can still do the calculations for you and give guidance wherever possible.

Simplified Building Energy Model.

Similar to SAP calculations for new build residential properties, SBEM calculations are for non-domestic buildings and are required at planning stage. The ‘As Designed’ SBEM calculation is submitted to show that the building meets the Target Emission Rate for energy efficiency. The ‘As Built’ SBEM calculation is then submitted at the end of the build when all works have been completed and building control can sign the project off. To have SBEM explained further read on.

It is important to undertake the SBEM calculations early on in the build cycle to ensure it will pass Part L of the Building Regulations without having to add costly retrospective measures later on.

The calculations that go into an EPC for a new building should be the same as those for the SBEM calculations. The EPC is the formalised certificate that allows the building to be sold or let. To avoid confusion, and duplicating costs, the EPC should be produced by the same assessor who undertook the initial calculations.

No, an SBEM calculation can be purely a desk based exercise.

Full scaled plans, sections and elevations of the final or intended layout, together with specifications for heating, cooling, ventilation, hot water and lighting. Details of the building fabric, in the form of U-value calculations for all the thermal elements together with information and certificates on air tightness and thermal bridging. If any renewable systems are to be installed then detailed specifications of these will also be required and certification at completion stage.

Valid SBEM calculations should only be undertaken and submitted to building control by a qualified Level 4 or 5 Energy Assessor. It’s important to also ensure that the same assessor can complete and lodge the EPC at the end of the project so that the building can be sold or let. To have the process of SBEM explained to you or your design team get in touch.

The cost is really determined by the size and complexity of the building.

For more information, please get in touch with Up Energy.