top of page
Frequently Asked Questions
For any questions you may have about sustainable construction, or for more detail about Viro and our services, please take a look at our frequently asked questions below. You can search our knowledge base by typing in a keyword, or browse through the categories and questions to find what you're looking for. If you have any further questions or want to speak to a member of our team about your project, please get in touch via our contact page.
Environmental & Sustainable Construction
Sustainability in construction is all about minimising and reducing the impact of buildings on the environment, while maximising environmental, economic and social benefits. Approximately 40% of greenhouse gases are attributed to the built environment, and if left unchecked, this could double by 2050. At Viro, we advise on design and implementation solutions, to ensure optimal building efficiency for long-term environmental and sustainability gain, benefitting both the building and the planet. We have a unique blend of expertise and services to help you reduce energy use. Get in touch here (https://www.viroconsult.com/contact)to find out more.
Sustainable construction consultants play a crucial role in assisting businesses and organisations to become more energy-efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. Here are the key ways we achieve this at Viro:
• Comprehensive Capability & Analysis: Our unique blend of construction, engineering and environmental assessment experience allows us to offer an extensive range of professional services. See our Services (https://www.viroconsult.com/sustainability-consultancy-services)page for more information.
• Lowering Environmental Impact: Viro will advise and consult on ways you can reduce carbon emissions and the overall environmental impact of your building. We also ensure compliance with environmental regulations and standards.
• Regional & International Services: Viro have a team of sustainability consultants working across the UK, with offices in Cardiff and London. We also have an international presence, particularly in Oman and key gateway cities in the Middle East, such as Dubai and Abu Dubai.
• Identifying Inefficiencies: Viro advise on design solutions to achieve carbon reduction and optimal efficiency, ensuring efficient building performance and operational gains. By addressing both immediate inefficiencies and long-term design improvements, we help you achieve sustained energy savings and environmental benefits, including reducing ongoing energy costs.
• Customised Solutions: Our solutions are designed to meet your specific business needs and goals, taking into account factors such as budget, operational requirements, and sustainability objectives.
• Training Programmes: Viro provide CDP (Continuing Professional Development) training for teams, employees or stakeholders to raise awareness about the benefits of energy conservation and sustainability. Get in touch to find out more here.(https://www.viroconsult.com/contact)
Viro is an environmental and sustainable construction consultancy, with a team of consultants working across the UK and internationally. We have dedicated international support in Oman, and other key areas in the Middle East such as Dubai and Abu Dubai.
SAP & SBEM Calculations
A SBEM (Simplified Building Energy Model) is the commercial equivalent of SAP calculations (noted below). Ultimately, SBEM is a government-led method for calculating the energy performance of non-dwellings, such as warehouses, offices, hospitals, leisure centres, schools, offices, retail units, and more.
SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) is a compliance requirement for ALL new-build residential homes and domestic buildings. Building control requires a SAP calculation to sign off your domestic building in line with current legislation. Essentially, SAP calculations are used to calculate and determine the overall energy performance of your building. The calculations are then used to produce the final EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating, which is valid for 10 years. It's important to note that you can't market, rent or sell a home without an EPC.
At Viro, we provide SAP calculations and EPC ratings for dwellings, as well as SBEM assessments for non-domestic properties. Additionally and crucially, we offer advice and assistance to architects in shaping, improving, and maximising the energy efficiency of buildings. Our consultancy and guidance helps minimise energy use and carbon emissions, while also reducing running costs.
Yes, you will need both a SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) calculation and an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating to calculate and determine the energy performance of a domestic dwelling, home or apartment. Firstly, the SAP calculation procedure is used to determine the energy performance of the dwelling which is then used to produce a final EPC rating (A being best and G being worst). Once your EPC rating is produced, it is valid for 10 years.
For commercial or non-domestic properties or buildings, please refer to SBEM calculations, the commercial equivalent of SAP.
If you convert and extend a property (when new glazing exceeds 25% of the extension), you should arrange a new SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) calculation for Building Control sign-off. While an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating is not required for Building Control, you do need a valid EPC when marketing, renting, or selling a property. SAP calculations are used to produce your updated EPC rating (A being best and G being worst). Once done, the EPC is valid for 10 years.
A SBEM (Simplified Building Energy Model) calculation is a government-led method to determine the energy efficiency and performance of non-dwellings, such as commercial or non-domestic properties. Examples of buildings where SBEM could be used include warehouses, offices, hospitals, leisure centres, schools, and retail units. SBEM calculations are carried out by accredited assessors and the calculation is used to generate a EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) A-G rating for the commercial or non-domestic property, where A rated buildings are the most efficient and G the least.
SBEM is sometimes referred to as a BRUNKL (Buildings Regulation UK Part L) report and this indicates whether a non-domestic or commercial building meets the energy efficiency and performance requirements defined in Part L (Approved Document Part L: The Conservation of Fuel and Power). This regulation aims to reduce carbon emissions, cut energy costs, and improve indoor air quality by focusing on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Note that SBEM is the commercial equivalent of the SAP calculation procedure, which is used to produce EPC ratings for domestic homes and apartments.
A SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) survey is used to calculate and determine the energy performance of a domestic dwelling, home or apartment. It is the only government-approved compliance method for assessing the energy performance and rating of a new dwelling. SAP calculations are also used to validate the energy performance of building extensions, renovations, and other modifications. Once the survey is completed, Building Control or Building Regulations use the data to sign off the property. SAP calculations are also used to produce a final EPC rating, with A being the most efficient and G being the least. To meet broader compliance requirements, an EPC rating is needed when marketing, renting, or selling a home.
Energy Performance Certification
An Energy Efficiency Certificate (EPC) provides detailed information about a property’s energy consumption and typical energy costs, along with suggestions for improving energy efficiency and saving money. EPCs measure and rate a property’s energy efficiency on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). These certificates are mandatory when a property is built, sold, or rented out, and they remain valid for 10 years. A valid certificate must be shown to prospective buyers or renters before selling or renting out a property. Failure to comply can result in a fine.
EPC ratings range from A to G, with A representing the highest energy efficiency and G the lowest. A higher rating indicates greater energy efficiency for your property. While the average rating in the UK is D, aiming for a C or higher is ideal. Newer homes typically achieve better ratings due to updated building codes and regulations.
EPC surveys typically include an assessment of the whole building, including windows, loft insulation levels, lighting, and heating system. It usually takes at least 45 minutes to carry out a survey for a commercial, non-domestic or residential building. The data collected enables us to calculate your property's expected energy costs and carbon emissions. Our experienced and accredited assessors go a bit further than the typical survey, to provide a detailed assessment with more advanced and tailored recommendations for energy efficiency improvements, beyond those listed in a standard EPC certificate. Our consultants will also happily guide you through the survey process, explaining the results and any unfamiliar terms in more detail.
Improving your EPC rating can involve several steps aimed at increasing your property's energy efficiency. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Upgrade Insulation: Install or improve insulation in your loft, walls, and floors to reduce heat loss.
2. Replace Old Windows and Doors: Upgrade to double or triple glazing to minimise heat loss and improve energy efficiency.
3. Install an Efficient Boiler: Replace an old boiler with a modern, energy-efficient model.
4. Use Renewable Energy Sources: Install solar panels, heat pumps, or other renewable energy systems.
5. Upgrade Heating Controls: Install smart thermostats and heating controls to optimize energy usage.
6. Improve Lighting: Replace incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED lighting.
In addition, whilst the following are not considered in an EPC survey, you should also think about:
• Install Energy-Efficient Appliances: Use appliances with high energy efficiency ratings.
• Seal Drafts: Use draft excluders and seal gaps around windows and doors to prevent heat loss.
• Conduct Regular Maintenance: Ensure your heating and cooling systems are regularly serviced to maintain their efficiency.
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) provides a property with an energy efficiency rating ranging from A (best) to G (worst) and remains valid for 10 years. During this period, the certificate can be used multiple times. After 10 years, the EPC expires, and a new certificate must be obtained if the property is to be marketed for sale or rent.
The duration of an EPC survey can vary depending on several factors, including the size, type, complexity, and location of the property. However, on average, a survey for a typical commercial, non-domestic or residential property usually takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour. During the survey, the assessor will take measurements and collect data on the property’s energy-related features. After the inspection, the assessor will analyse all the collected data to calculate the property’s energy efficiency rating. This process generates the EPC, which includes the energy efficiency rating, typical energy costs, and recommendations for improving energy efficiency. At Viro, we aim to provide the survey results as quickly as possible, often within the same day or within one or two working days.
The cost of an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) can vary depending on the size, type of property, and location. For a more accurate estimate, contact providers in your area. Our consultancy service involves a detailed assessment and tailored recommendations for energy efficiency improvements that go beyond those listed in a standard EPC certificate. Once certified, your certificate is valid for 10 years.
bottom of page