The Importance of SBEM Calculations in Building Compliance

Energy efficiency and regulation compliance are now critical factors in modern building design and management. With increasing regulations and environmental concerns (that seem to be changing yearly!), the tools that assess and verify energy performance are becoming more essential and authoritative. One of the most widely used tools for assessing the Energy performance and carbon emissions in non-domestic (commercial) buildings in the UK is an SBEM calculation. These calculations can either generate a BRUKL certificate (simply stands for Building Regulations Part L), which is usually asked for by Building Controls or Planning Departments as a way to demonstrate compliance with new build energy performance standards in England and Wales or to produce an EPC, usually triggered due to the property being sold or let.

This article explains why SBEM calculations matter, how they differ from SAP Calculations, and how choosing to use sap2sbem can streamline the compliance process for professionals.

Why an SBEM calculation matters

Energy compliance ensures that buildings meet strict standards designed to reduce energy use and carbon emissions, based on Part L of the UK Building Regulations. This not only benefits the environment, but also lowers long-term energy costs for building owners. Usually, an SBEM Calculation is triggered by an application to the local authority to change or improve the buildings fabric, size shape or use in some way.

An SBEM calculation provides a clear, standardised assessment of energy efficiency in commercial or non-domestic buildings, which is crucially accepted by building controls throughout the UK, being based on the BRE's iSBEM platform.

With SBEM calculations, energy assessors and designers can:

• Accurately model the predicted energy use of a building

• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce emissions

• Demonstrate compliance with UK Building Regulations Part L

• Produce the mandatory reports required for planning approval and certification, including EPCs for new-build commercial buildings

  
  

Modern office building exterior showing energy-efficient design

How SAP and SBEM Calculations Differ

At sap2sbem.co.uk, we specialise in both SAP and SBEM calculations. While the two methods are related, in that they demonstrate compliance with Part L of the Building regulations, they both serve different purposes:

• SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) – Used for residential buildings, SAP calculations assess insulation, heating systems, renewable technologies, and other features to produce an ADL1 Compliance Report or an As Built EPC for domestic homes.

• SBEM (Simplified Building Energy Model) – Used for non-domestic buildings such as offices, schools, warehouses, and retail spaces. SBEM provides a simplified model of energy use and carbon emissions to show compliance with Part L (ADL2)

Key Differences Between SAP and SBEM

Feature	SAP (Domestic)	SBEM (Non-Domestic)
Application	Houses, maisonettes & flats. Can be applied to conversion, New Build or extension projects	Offices, shops, schools, warehouses, boarding houses. New build, conversion or extension projects
Calculation methods	Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP 10 or SAP 2012, depending on which Building Regulations the building is assessed to). Based on ADL1	Simplified Building Energy Model (iSBEM) is usually with an interfacing software. Based on ADL2
Main Outputs	BREL Compliance Reports (Building regs. England Part L), new build EPC's, conversion EPCs	BRUKL Certificates, Non Domestic EPC's

By understanding these differences, professionals who are tackling mixed use developments can ensure they apply the correct assessment method for each building type, while maintaining compliance across the whole project.

Benefits of Using sap2sbem for Calculations

Working with sap2sbem brings several advantages for architects, builders, and property owners who have non domestic and domestic projects:

• Time-saving –Simplifies data collection (such as U Value calculations)

• Cost-effective – Eliminates the need for separate consultants

• Accurate results – Proven consistency across both SAP and SBEM models. We have completed many projects where there has been a blend of SAP and SBEM units. We are regularly Audited by Elmhurst Energy Systems and regularly post our results.

• Regulatory compliance – We have good knowledge of Part L, and can help your project meet the Building Regulations.

• Professional reporting – As well as the standard required reports, we also produce clear, reliable documentation which often accompany a building control or planning submission, such as Energy Statements or Climate Change and Sustainability Statements.

Best Practice Tips for SBEM Calculations

Getting SBEM calculations right the first time saves architects and housebuilders both time and money. To make the process smoother and ensure Part L compliance, keep these points in mind:

• Think about SBEM early – Run preliminary energy models during concept design. It’s much easier to tweak wall build-ups or HVAC options at RIBA Stage 2–3 than after planning approval.

• Provide accurate building data – SBEM relies on dimensions, U-values, glazing specs, ventilation details, and lighting designs. The more precise your inputs, the quicker the compliance check.

• Coordinate with M&E and lighting teams – Heating, cooling, ventilation, and lighting efficiency all feed directly into the SBEM calculation. Getting this data agreed early avoids last-minute redesigns and assists with procurement.

• Set a realistic airtightness target – Don’t rely on defaults. Decide your design permeability rate and plan for testing. SBEM models improve accuracy when based on achievable values.

• Work with accredited professionals – Using reliable SBEM software and an experienced assessor ensures accurate results and compliance reports that stand up to scrutiny.

By following these steps, design teams can reduce rework, keep projects on track, and deliver buildings that meet energy efficiency regulations without unnecessary delays.

Simplify Your Compliance with sap2sbem

Whether you’re working on a new commercial development or a mixed-use scheme, SBEM calculations are essential for Part L Non Domestic compliance. At sap2sbem.co.uk, we provide a fast, accurate, and cost-effective service for both SAP and SBEM assessments, helping you stay compliant with UK Building Regulations Part L.

👉 Get in touch today to simplify your energy compliance process and ensure your next project achieves Part L Compliance.

Energy modelling software interface such as iSBEM displaying building energy data