What Is SBEM Used For?

L2A SBEM New-Build Calculations

Design Stage

We:

• Scrutinise and pass the property’s construction details before construction starts;
• Use specialist SBEM software to generate a TER rate and show BER compliance; then
• Create an assessment of predicted energy use.

As Built Report

• On completion of the project, details of the construction are assessed afresh and final calculations are added, e.g., the designated type of boiler model.
• The EPC derives from this report.

The Calculation of L2B SBEM (extensions and conversions)

Notional Report

We:

• • Carry out an assessment of the construction of the whole property, in addition to the proposed extension or conversion.
  • Create a benchmarked data report.
  • Use specialist SBEM software to generate a TER rate and to prove that the building is compliant with BER regulations.

Proposed Report

We:

• Use benchmark data for existing components. Actual performance data are used for new or upgraded components.
• Use specialist SBEM software to generate a TER rate and to prove that the building is compliant with BER regulations.
• Pass the property only when its performance values are lower than benchmarked standards.
• Also check that overall BER measurements are lower in the proposed report than in the notional report.
• We will replace the existing EPC with a new EPC, where SBEM calculations demonstrate that all building performance values are lower in the proposed report than in the notional report.

Scheduling SBEM Calculations

Two SBEM assessments are required: one at the beginning of the building project, and another at the end. We can produce an SBEM calculation at Design and As-Built Stages.

Design Stage SBEM Calculations

Design Stage SBEM Calculations must be produced before building work starts, so you should submit an SBEM report and Building Control/ Warrant Application to a Building Control Body or Verifier (Scotland) without delay or building work cannot start.

As-Built Stage SBEM Calculation

On completion, As-Built SBEM Calculations are needed to ensure that the finished building remains compliant.

What exactly does an SBEM Calculation offer?

Commercial SBEM calculations indicate the carbon footprint of the surveyed building as required under Building Regulations Part L. These calculations demonstrate energy costs and carbon emissions resulting from the proposed design.

Changes are often made as the project progresses, in consultation with architects, developers, or customers, to make sure that the building is always in full compliance with current regulations. We recommend that you engage an official accredited consultant before committing to your final design.

How much time should I allow?

Of course, it depends on the size and duration of your project. But as a rule of thumb, Briary Energy sets itself a target for report completion within 5 to 10 working days following application.

The consequences of failure

Simple. It is illegal to sell or rent any commercial property that does not have a compliant EPC. Your building must pass its SBEM. You can see how important it is to carry out SBEM calculations before starting to build — if the building does not reach building regulation standards, we can offer advice to improve the situation. Clearly, remedial work becomes more and more difficult, not to mention more expensive, as the project progresses.

Briary Energy offers wide-ranging support and guidance from start to finish of the whole SBEM process. Some of our competitors simply carry out calculations. Briary Energy offers our customers consultancy services to ensure you have all the data and information needed for an SBEM pass.

Dynamic Simulation Modelling

DSM software is designed to calculate data for new build commercial properties. It is also highly accurate and takes account of other external factors capable of impacting on energy consumption.

DSM software comes into play with large scale complex constructions such as airports, shopping centres, or sky-scrapers. But the software can prove very useful for those customers who want a more detailed analysis for their intended non-domestic project.

In commercial buildings we use Dynamic Simulation Modelling (DSM) to provide a much more detailed and accurate assessment using a 3D model of your building. This model enables us to analyse:

• Thermal Performance / Construction
• Renewables and Technologies
• Energy usage
• CO2 Emissions
• Overheating
• Daylight / Sunlight Assessment
• Ventilation / Airflow
• Occupant Comfort
• BREEAM / LEED Performance

Briary Energy typically use DSM for large developments such as hotels and office blocks.

Why Briary?

• We use the latest technology to model and test your building.
• We offer a fast and effective service.
• Our experienced SBEM assessor team will ensure a pass without compromising or changing your design.
• We have the ability to package up SAP and SBEM assessment tools with DSM to ensure a robust and compliant report.

For a free quote for any of our services, from Standard Assessment Procedures (SAPs) for dwellings to Simplified Building Energy Model (SBEM) calculations and Dynamic Simulation Modelling, call the team at Briary Energy on 020 3397 1373. You can find more information on our services throughout our website at https://www.briaryenergy.co.uk/.