RdSAP 10 Update 2024

RdSAP 10, the latest update to the UK’s home energy assessment tool, is almost here. This blog post explores the key changes and enhancements brought about by the update and what it means for homeowners, potential buyers and energy assessors.

In this blog you’ll learn:

• What RdSAP is and how it impacts EPC ratings
• The key changes introduced in the RdSAP 10 update
• Why these changes are important
• The role RdSAP plays in home energy efficiency

RdSAP 10

In the pursuit of a more sustainable future, energy efficiency in our homes is paramount. To measure and improve the energy performance of residential properties, the UK employs the Reduced Data Standard Assessment Procedure (RdSAP). As technology evolves and sustainability goals become more ambitious, periodic updates are essential. One such significant update coming is RdSAP 10, the next version of this crucial assessment tool.

The Evolution of RdSAP

RdSAP, is the backbone of the UK’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) scheme for existing dwellings. It assesses the energy efficiency of residential properties. This provides homeowners and prospective buyers with valuable insights into a property’s energy performance and suggestions for improvements.

RdSAP 10: An Overview

RdSAP is not static; it evolves to align with technological advancements, changing environmental priorities, and evolving standards. It represents a significant leap forward, introducing several important changes and updates:

1. Assessors will be required to measure all windows – This represents a move away from the assumption of typical glazing areas for the age of property. As a result, the assessment will be more reflective of the property being assessed and thereby more accurate.
2. Additional options for roof rooms – Assessors will be required to take additional measurements to capture different construction types of any common wall and gable walls.
3. New age band – Introduction of new age band for properties built from 2023 onwards to show improvement in u-values.
4. New region added – The Isle of Man has been added as a region alongside England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Previously, it has never been possible to undertake RdSAP assessments in the Isle of Man.
5. PV diverters and battery storage – Assessors will be able to account for PV diverters and battery storage when they are present in the property.
6. Heat Pumps to be recommended more – The government’s low carbon solution of choice, Heat Pumps, will be appearing more often as a recommended improvement measure, under certain conditions, e.g. the property has to be fairly well insulated.

RdSAP 10: Additional considerations

1. New Energy Factors: RdSAP 10 incorporates updated energy factors, ensuring that assessments are based on the latest data. These factors are essential for calculating a property’s energy performance, which directly affects its EPC rating.
2. Consistency with Building Regulations: The update aligns more closely with current UK Building Regulations, making it easier to assess a property’s compliance with these regulations.
3. Air Testing: As discussed in previous blog posts, air testing has become a focal point in energy efficiency assessments. Government Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has reversed its decision to exclude air pressure test results from RdSAP 10. This news is greatly welcomed, as many advocated to override the default value for air pressure.

Our thoughts

The RdSAP 10 update is another step in the right direction regarding the UK’s commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability. By incorporating the latest data, recognising the importance of additional data, and prioritising factors like air tightness, RdSAP 10 raises the bar for residential energy assessments.

For homeowners and prospective buyers, RdSAP 10 offers more reliable and comprehensive insights into the energy performance of a property. It empowers individuals to make informed decisions about energy efficiency improvements and investments, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.

As the world continues to grapple with environmental challenges, updates like RdSAP 10 play a crucial role in promoting energy efficiency and helping us transition to a more sustainable way of living.