A New Build SBEM Calculation is required for most newly constructed commercial and non-domestic buildings to demonstrate compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations.

SBEM assesses the predicted energy performance of the proposed building by creating a detailed energy model covering the building fabric, glazing, heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, hot water and renewable-energy systems.

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For new buildings, calculations are normally undertaken at two key stages: Design Stage, before construction begins, and As-Built Stage, following completion. This allows the proposed specification to be checked before works commence and the completed building to be verified for Building Control.

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Compliance is determined by comparing the proposed building against a notional building of the same size, shape and use. Key outputs include the Building Emission Rate (BER) against the Target Emission Rate (TER) and the Building Primary Energy Rate (BPER) against the Target Primary Energy Rate (TPER).

The building must also satisfy the other applicable Part L requirements, including minimum standards for the building fabric and fixed building services.

When a commercial building undergoes a Change of Use, Building Regulations may require an SBEM calculation to demonstrate compliance with Part L.

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Whether you are converting a warehouse into offices, retail premises into a restaurant, or an industrial unit into a gym, the change in occupancy can significantly alter the building's energy requirements.

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British EPC can model the existing building together with the proposed alterations, including building fabric, heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting and hot water systems, to establish whether the proposed development complies with the applicable requirements.

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Where improvements are required, we can identify practical changes to the specification before works are completed, helping to reduce the risk of Building Control compliance issues, redesign or additional costs later in the project.

An Extension SBEM Calculation may be required where an existing commercial building is being extended to demonstrate compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations.

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Particular consideration is required where the proposed extension is greater than 100 m² and exceeds 25% of the total useful floor area of the existing building, as this can trigger requirements for consequential energy-efficiency improvements to the existing building.

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British EPC can assess both the proposed extension and, where applicable, the existing building to determine the relevant Part L requirements and identify any improvements required for Building Control compliance.

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The assessment can consider building fabric, glazing, heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, hot water and renewable technologies, allowing potential compliance issues to be identified before construction begins.