This program is now superceded by Sapper version 6, but should be used for transitional projects starting or approved before Part L1 came into effect. Please consult the Local Authority for transitional arrangements.

The Standard Assessment Procedure(SAP) is the Government's standard procedure for assessing home energy ratings. The energy rating is intended to give householders, architects, builders etc. a measure of the overall efficiency of a home in a way that is simple and easy to understand. The SAP rating depends on a number of factors including:

• thermal insulation of the building fabric
• efficiency and control of the heating system
• ventilation characteristics of the dwelling
• solar gain characteristics of the dwelling
• the price of fuels used for space and water heating

It is an excellent design tool for any architect who wants to make sure that the design is energy efficient and that it complies with Part L of the Building Regulations. Building Control Officers like the ease of recording the data and checking the U-values. Other Local Authorities officers may use this program for carrying out energy audits of their housing stock.

Whether you use the Target U-value method, the Energy Rating method or the Elemental method to show compliance, you will need to calculate the SAP rating. In Northern Ireland, it is necessary to use the SAP in order to show compliance by the Target U-Value or Elemental methods.

The SEDBUK (Seasonal Efficiency of Domestic Boilers in UK) database, compiled in conjunction with boiler manufacturers, is available on the internet. For use by SAP assessors and other boiler specifiers, the database can be viewed at www.sedbuk.com or by clicking here

The database has detailed information on about 2000 gas and oil fired boilers and SAPPER version 5.2 allows the user to browse the data file off-line and select an appropriate boiler.

A big advantage in using the SEDBUK database is that by using manufacturer's authenticated SEDBUK efficiencies, the higher efficiencies will give a better SAP rating.

SAPPER 5.2x IS THE IDEAL SAP CALCULATION SOFTWARE.

• Approved by BRE
• Easy to input data.
• Reads the SEDBUK boiler database. SEDBUK efficiencies can give higher SAP ratings.
• Prints the calculation in approved format.
• Easy to edit inputs.
• Dynamic calculation updates.
• Shows Carbon Dioxide emissions.
• Includes a U-value calculator for walls, floors, roofs and windows, which includes database of commonly used materials.
• Checks compliance with Energy Rating method, Target U-value method and Elemental method.
• SAPPER will also calculate the percentage of windows doors and rooflights and check this against the allowable percentage from Table 3. This is particularly useful in some extensions where large areas of glass are required.
• Acceptable for Building Regulations purposes.
• Comprehensive run-time 'help' now available (with diagrams).