The UK Government has officially confirmed plans to:
• Update the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) from 10.2 to 10.3 following consultation with Quidos and the other accreditation schemes, the purpose of this update is to align SAP more closely with the Home Energy Model (HEM). (The engine that will power Future Homes Standard)
• Allow the use of both SAP and the (FHS) Future Homes Standard for compliance for a limited time to allow a phased transition for new build homes.
This means that both the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) and the new Home Energy Model (HEM) will be recognised as valid methodologies for demonstrating compliance with the Future Homes Standard (FHS). This dual approach will form part of a phased transition, allowing the house-building sector time to adapt as the new regulatory framework takes shape. This update provides much-needed clarity ahead of the Future Homes Standard coming into effect and offers flexibility during the early stages of implementation.
Background: SAP and the Home Energy Model
The Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) is the long-standing method used to assess the energy performance of dwellings in the UK. It serves two primary functions:
- Verifying compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations
- Producing Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) for new homes
Originally developed in 1993 and updated periodically, SAP underpins energy efficiency policy and certification for new residential construction. The most recent version in use is SAP 10.2, with SAP 10.3 set to be introduced to align with the Future Homes Standard requirements.
The new Home Energy Model (HEM) is a next-generation assessment methodology developed to enhance the accuracy and robustness of energy modelling in line with the UK’s net zero commitments. It incorporates greater detail and modernised assumptions and is intended to eventually replace SAP for new builds.
What’s Changing?
When the Future Homes Standard regulations are formally laid before Parliament:
- An updated version of SAP (SAP 10.3) will be made available
- The first version of the Home Energy Model (HEM) will also be released
- Both systems will be usable during an interim period, to support a smooth transition for the industry
This dual-system approach ensures continuity for developers, assessors, and software providers, while also enabling early adoption of the more advanced Home Energy Model where appropriate.
Looking Ahead
The introduction of the Home Energy Model represents a major evolution in how the UK assesses the energy efficiency of new homes. By maintaining SAP during a transitional phase, the government aims to support industry readiness while ensuring the delivery of more energy-efficient dwellings in line with long-term sustainability goals.
At Quidos, we see this as a positive and practical step forward. Offering two methodologies during the transition period provides the flexibility the industry needs, while still pushing ahead with the UK’s net-zero goals.
Further guidance, software tools, and regulatory details are expected to follow when the Future Homes Standard regulations are formally published.
For technical details on SAP, RdSAP, and the Home Energy Model, please refer to the official guidance from the UK Government.
