SBEM Calculations for Extensions
SBEM Calculations are a great way to give you more creativity and freedom when designing larger commercial extensions. We understand that these can be complex projects, so we’ll provide you with the knowledge and support to help ensure your extension meets all of the necessary regulations and standards.
Why you need SBEM Calculations for extensions
At Focus 360 Energy, we understand that SBEM Calculations are essential for extensions to commercial properties. This is a requirement set out in Part L2A (England & Wales), Section 6 (Scotland) and Part F1 (Northern Ireland) of the Building Regulations – which state that an EPC must be obtained for new builds. Without one, it’s not allowed to rent or sell a property.
Our team of knowledgeable experts want to help you make sure your building meets all regulations as well as helping you reduce emissions and save money on energy costs. We’d love to provide the necessary SBEM calculations for your extension project so you can get the EPC certificate and keep everything legally compliant!
When you will need a SBEM Calculation for an extension
In certain cases, non-dwellings don’t require an SBEM calculation – however, larger extensions will need one if:
- The area is over 100m2 AND
- The total useful floor area of the extension exceeds 25% of the existing building floor area
- If you’ve answered yes to both questions, then it’s likely that an SBEM assessment is necessary for compliance with the Building Regulations’ Approved Document Part L2A. The assessment will only cover the extension but can take into account heating and hot water systems already in place.
Whole Building Calculation Method
The U-Value Calculations are an important part of any building extension, since they determine that the new thermal elements meet the necessary standards. Unfortunately, this can lead to design limitations due to these restrictions. Thankfully, a Whole Building Calculation Method incorporating SBEM will give you more control and flexibility over your design, while still confirming that it adheres to all regulations.
This calculation process also verifies that the CO2 emissions for the entire building and extension do not surpass those of a hypothetical compliant structure.
The Process
Making sure your SBEM calculations are accurate is critical to the success of any extension project. That’s why we advise taking the time upfront to invest in these calculations – this way, any potential issues can be addressed during the design stage and save you money and headaches in the future. With our expertise, you can rest assured that all your calculations will be calculated correctly!
Our Part L2A SBEM reports come in two parts: a ‘design stage’ report and an ‘as built’ one. Ultimately, these allow us to generate your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
The process involves
- assessing external building fabric and openings to make sure appropriate passive measures are in place to avoid any unnecessary solar gains or air conditioning systems being needed;
- evaluating construction materials for their energy efficiency;
- measuring energy consumption of heating systems, lighting, ventilation systems etc.; and finally
- comparing both reports using our specialised software for TER/BER compliance purposes.
Related Sustainability Services
SBEM Calculations are frequently combined with the following additional services:
Ventilation Testing
Find out moreMechanical Design
Find out moreElectrical Design
Find out morePart O – Overheating Assessments
Find out moreAir Tightness Testing
Find out moreNew Build EPC
Find out moreOur Process
Helpful information you may need to supply?
- Floor plans, elevation drawings, section drawings and a site plan.
- Construction specification.
- Mechanical and electrical specification.
- Details of any proposed renewable technology
Complete our SBEM Calculations checklist and submit it with your quote.
Please note: that with multiple commercial buildings, if the construction details vary between plots, a separate SBEM Calculation checklist must be completed for each type. We would be delighted to provide you with an accurate quote once we receive your floor plans. Don’t forget to upload them with your quote request!
Click the Get a Quote link to access our online portal, or use the form to share brief details about your project and we will respond promptly.
Why choose Focus 360 Energy
Expertise: Our team of accredited assessors possesses in-depth knowledge of SBEM calculations and building regulations.
Efficiency: We prioritise quick turnaround times and streamlined processes to keep your project on track.
Accuracy: We’re committed to delivering precise and reliable results, ensuring your building meets the highest standards.
Support: We offer ongoing support and guidance throughout the entire process, answering your questions and addressing any concerns.
With Focus360 Energy, you can navigate the complexities of SBEM calculations with confidence, knowing that your project is in capable hands.
Frequently Asked Questions
SBEM stands for Simplified Building Energy Model. It’s the UK government’s approved method for assessing the energy performance of non-domestic buildings, like offices, shops, and factories. It predicts energy consumption and carbon emissions, which are then used to generate an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
SBEM calculations are mandatory for most new non-domestic buildings and significant extensions or renovations. They’re essential for demonstrating compliance with Part L2A of the Building Regulations, which sets energy efficiency standards.
Ideally, you should get an SBEM assessment done at the design stage of your project. This allows you to identify and address any potential energy efficiency issues early on, saving you time and money in the long run. However, a final SBEM assessment is also required upon completion to obtain your EPC.
The SBEM rating is influenced by various factors, including the building’s fabric (walls, roof, floors, windows, doors), heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, lighting, renewable energy installations, occupancy patterns, and climate data.
While it’s best to optimise energy efficiency during the design phase, some improvements can be made after construction. However, these can be more costly and disruptive. A professional SBEM assessor can advise on potential retrofitting options.
The cost varies depending on the complexity and size of your project. Focus360 Energy offers competitive pricing and can provide you with a free, no-obligation quote.
An EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) is a legal requirement for most commercial buildings when they are built, sold, or rented out. It provides a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), indicating the building’s energy performance. A good EPC rating can attract tenants and potentially increase the property’s value.
We offer a range of services to support your building’s overall performance, including TM52 overheating assessments, air tightness testing, ventilation assessments, and energy audits.
If your newly constructed building is over 500m2, it’s essential to undertake an air tightness test. The outcome of this test will be used as part of the SBEM Calculations needed for Building Regulations compliance. Rest assured, our team of experts are here to help you make sure everything is in order and up-to-date with the necessary regulations. The Air Test result forms part of the As-Built SBEM calculation. Essentially the lower the air test result, the better the final EPC result will be.
Design Stage SBEM Calculations are imperative to complying with Building Regulations/Standards before construction or development projects can begin. The Target Emission Rate (TER) is set at the design stage to ensure that the CO2 emission rate of the building meets the minimum standards for energy performance – based on a notional building which shares similar shape and orientation as your own. We also establish a Building Emission Rate (BER) based on your building plans, which should not exceed the TER; if it does, we are here to help you adjust the designs in order to be compliant.
Once the construction of your commercial building is complete, submitting an As-Built SBEM Calculation to a Building Control body is essential for building sign off. An EPC can then be generated for sale of leasing requirements. With buildings boasting less than 500m2 in useful floor area, air pressure testing isn’t necessary; due to the 15m3/(h.m2) at 50 Pa as part of the Building Emission Rate (BER) calculation. Comparing the Design Stage TER with the BER reveals if any further action needs to be taken – and that’s where Focus 360 Energy Ltd come in! Our expertise and consultancy experience guarantee your building will comply with all regulations.
