Typical appointments
- New non-domestic buildings
- Extensions or alterations where an assessment is required
- Early option comparison for fabric and building services
- Design changes that may affect Part L performance
Energy and compliance
SBEM assessments and Part L support
Non-domestic energy modelling linked to fabric, HVAC, lighting and controls decisions throughout design.
Service overview
Assessment connected to design decisions
SBEM assessment should inform the developing building design rather than operate as a final pass-or-fail check. MEPX coordinates model assumptions with the architectural and building-services information available at each stage for projects in Newcastle and across North East England.
The commission can identify compliance risks, missing inputs and practical improvement options before major design decisions are fixed.
Scope note Applicable assessment, evidence, lodgement and third-party responsibilities are confirmed for each commission.
Project fit
When the service is useful
Information to begin
- Plans, sections, elevations and orientation
- Fabric build-ups, glazing and shading information
- Space uses, occupancy and operating assumptions
- HVAC, lighting, controls and renewable-system proposals
Technical scope
Outputs and design considerations
Typical deliverables
- Inputs and assumptions schedule
- Design-stage SBEM model and results
- Compliance-risk and improvement-options note
- Updated evidence as the design develops, where appointed
Design considerations
- Fabric, glazing and air permeability
- Heating, cooling and ventilation efficiencies
- Lighting power and controls
- Renewable systems and project-specific evidence
Common questions
Before commissioning the work
What is an SBEM assessment?
SBEM is the UK methodology used to calculate the energy performance of many non-domestic buildings. The applicable compliance and certification route depends on the project and jurisdiction.
When should SBEM work begin?
Early design-stage assessment is most useful because fabric, glazing, HVAC, lighting and controls can still be coordinated before they are fixed.
What information is required?
Typical inputs include architectural drawings, construction build-ups, glazing data, activity assumptions and proposed mechanical, electrical and renewable systems.
Can the assessment be updated during design?
Yes. The model and assumptions can be updated as design information develops, subject to the agreed commission and information programme.
Does MEPX provide SBEM assessments in Newcastle and North East England?
Yes. MEPX supports suitable non-domestic projects in Newcastle, County Durham, Northumberland, Sunderland, Teesside and the wider North East, with UK-wide commissions considered where appropriate.
Project discussion
Confirm the assessment route early
Share the building type, location, design stage and available information. MEPX can identify the likely assessment scope and information needed to proceed.