With the ever increasing importance of newly released legislations aimed at the reduction of carbon emissions in buildings, Stroma Accreditation has been appointed by Communities Local Government (CLG), to provide Accreditation and training for those wishing to become licensed assessors for the Code for Sustainable Homes, Residential, Commercial and Public Energy Assessment.
Energy Assessments and building/ sustainability compliance are a key part of the European Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), which is one of the most advanced and comprehensive pieces of legislation targeted at improving energy efficiency within buildings. EPBD helpline on 0845 365 2468 or help@epbduk.info.
Over the next few pages you will find all you need to know on how to meet these requirements and how Stroma can provide you with complete approved solutions.
Often there is confusion over the type of assessments required and the synonyms that they are often associated with. Please find below a quick view list explaining the commonly used terms. This list should also help distinguish areas of interest and explain the part that energy performance certificates play. (Links available for further details and explanations)
Residential
Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH or CODE)
All new dwellings will require a mandatory rating against the Code for Sustainable Homes from 1st May 2008. The Code introduces minimum standards for energy and environmental factors affecting the sustainability of a home. Ratings assess the dwelling on a scale of zero to six stars. For example, a building with a Nil-rating is in line with the current building regulations, whereas a building with a Level 6 rating is carbon free.
Newly Constructed Dwellings (SAP)
All newly constructed dwellings from 6th April 2008 require an energy performance certificate (EPC). The revised Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) 2005, was devised by the government in order to assess the energy performance of a dwelling.
Existing Dwellings (DEA Domestic Energy Assessor)
Existing residential properties require EPCs for inclusion within HIPs (Home Information Packs). EPCs are generated by inputting information gathered at the property into an accredited RdSAP (Reduced Data Standard Assessment Procedure) program. The data must be collected in person at the property in question by the DEA to ensure that the information gathered is accurate and recorded to the required assessment standards.
Commercial
Non Dwelling (SBEM/ DSM)
The floor area dictates the date for implementation of commercial property assessment. From 6th April 2008, EPCs are required for the construction, sale, or rent of buildings with a floor area over 10,000 m2. From 4th July 2008, EPCs will be needed for the sale or rent of buildings with a floor area over 2,500 m2. Finally, from 1st October 2008, EPCs will be required on the construction, sale, or rent of all remaining buildings. Depending on the buildings complexity, SBEM and DSM software is used to assess commercial properties.
Public
Public Buildings (DEC)
Display Energy Certificates (DECs) show the actual energy usage of a building based on the data recorded by gas,
electricity and water meters. The DEC should be clearly displayed at all times in a prominent place clearly visible to the public. An Advisory Report that lists cost effective measures to improve the energy rating of the building always accompanies a DEC.
Stroma Accreditation has approved solutions for all of the above requirements and can tailor routes to accreditation to meet your requirements. For example, we deliver full diploma courses or a fast track route to accreditation via experiential learning suitable for experienced practitioners.
All assessors must be registered with an approved Accreditation Body (such as Stroma Accreditation) and competent at delivering the energy assessment. We are responsible for ensuring the quality of Stroma registered Energy Assessors and of the EPCs produced.
Discover the best way to deliver these via the complete solutions Stroma Accreditation have available. Switch on with Stroma Today and call 0845 621 11 11 or email info@stroma.com for more information.