SAP Calculations for Scotland

In Scotland, SAP compliance uses Section 6 of the Scottish Building Standards rather than Part L. Requirements differ by project type — new build, extension, or conversion — and local authority Verifiers check compliance.

Building Regulations control work in England and Wales, but projects in Scotland must conform to Building Standards instead. Requirements vary according to the type of build, as outlined below.

New Builds in Scotland

New builds in Scotland require a SAP calculation, similar to those required in England and Wales.

The SAP assessment requires you to demonstrate your new build meets the carbon target set by Scottish Building Standards. Many designs fall short of the minimum requirements, and standards can vary by location and project date.

Build Energy identifies non-compliant elements early and provides practical solutions so you can achieve a pass before work starts.

Extensions in Scotland

Projects such as conservatories and extensions require Heat Loss Calculations to demonstrate acceptable thermal performance. The minimum performance depends on the wider property, and a whole-dwelling SAP Assessment can also demonstrate compliance.

We can work with you and your Verifier to advise on the most suitable route to a pass.

Conversions in Scotland

Conversions in Scotland require Heat Loss Calculations to demonstrate acceptable thermal performance under Building Standards. This covers existing elements that may need upgrading as well as minimum standards for any new construction or services.

We can guide you through the options and help you specify thermal upgrades that best meet the compliance requirements.

Working with clients from the outset, we establish the Building Standards requirements and offer feedback on designs to achieve compliance. Using architects’ drawings and specified building products, we carry out the SAP Assessment with no need for site visits.

At design stage, we resolve any shortfalls quickly and provide practical solutions to help you achieve a pass.

Further reading:

• SAP in Scotland
• Gold Silver and Bronze in Scotland
• Section 6 Action Plans in Scotland
• SAP Differences across UK

Scottish projects follow the same general SAP process as English ones – for a full overview, see our guide to SAP calculations. Most Scottish residential schemes also need an Energy Statement for the planning application. Return to the Part L SAP Calculations hub.

How does Section 6 differ from Part L in England?

Section 6 covers energy in a similar way to Part L in England and Wales, but uses different compliance metrics. Scotland requires a Carbon Dioxide Emissions Rate (CDER) rather than a Target Emissions Rate. It also applies its own fabric standards and notional building specifications.

What is a Carbon Dioxide Emissions Rate (CDER)?

The Carbon Dioxide Emissions Rate (CDER) is the primary carbon compliance metric for new buildings in Scotland under Section 6. A building complies when its CDER is equal to or lower than the Target Carbon Dioxide Emissions Rate (TDER).

Who verifies Section 6 compliance in Scotland?

In Scotland, local authority Verifiers administer building standards rather than building control officers as in England. You submit the SAP calculation and associated documentation to the relevant Verifier for checking and approval.

Do conversions in Scotland also require SAP calculations?

Yes. Conversions creating new dwellings in Scotland fall under Section 6 and need SAP calculations, just as new builds do. The assessor must be accredited and familiar with Scottish requirements.

Can the same SAP assessor work across Scotland and England?

UK-registered SAP assessors can work in Scotland but must understand the differences between Part L in England and Wales and Section 6 in Scotland. Build Energy produces SAP calculations across all regions and is experienced in meeting the requirements of Scottish Verifiers.