Top 10 questions assessors ask about RdSAP 10
As the launch of RdSAP 10 on Sunday 15th June draws nearer, we’ve collated a list of our most asked questions by assessors, helping you to get the key information you need to be up to speed when the new methodology launches.
1. Why is the methodology being updated?
Before we jump in to our most frequently asked questions, it’s worth looking at why the methodology is being updated. RdSAP 10 represents one of the most significant updates to the Reduced Data Standard Assessment Procedure in recent years. This revision is designed to deliver greater accuracy in energy assessments, ensuring they reflect current building practices and the integration of modern technologies. It also aligns with the UK Government’s ongoing commitment to achieving Net Zero carbon emissions and tackling fuel poverty.
Elmhurst has collaborated closely with the BRE throughout the development of RdSAP 10 to ensure the updated methodology is practical, reliable, and easy to use.
2. What are the major changes in RdSAP 10?
There are lots of changes coming for RdSAP 10 but some of the major ones are included below:
- Insulation data is collected in a greater range of increments for walls, roofs and floors
- Window and glazing inputs are more detailed, as well as collecting additional measurements for windows
- Two new Room in the Roof types with more detailed inputs
- Increased ventilation options to choose from
- Inclusion of further renewable technologies such as battery storage
- Air pressure tests can now be included with the correct documentation
For a full list of the changes, you can review our RdSAP 10 Technical Bulletins for members which can be found on the Member Resources page, here >
3. Why are airtightness tests now included?
With the increasing uptake of airtightness tests across the UK hosing stock, RdSAP 10 now allows air pressure test results to be included in RdSAP 10 assessments, where correct documentation is available, instead of using default values. This allows for a more precise reflection of a property’s energy performance and a more accurate EPC result.
4. Do the changes mean I need to collect additional data at a property?
Yes – this means additional data does need to be collected for RdSAP 10 assessments, such as measuring all windows and taking additional room measurements for room in the roof, to name a few. This is to increase the overall accuracy of assessments and ensure that EPCs are a better representation of a property’s energy performance.
5. Should I be collecting additional data now?
Yes – we strongly recommend that you start to collect any additional data inputs now, to avoid potentially having to revisit a property in the future if your assessment needs to be relodged. Elmhurst members have access to a range of resources to help with this, including RdSAP 10 site survey forms to collect additional data prior to the launch of RdSAP 10 and walkthrough videos explaining the additional data that needs to be collected.
These resources can be found on the Member Resources page here >
6. How will these changes impact my role as a DEA?
With the introduction of additional data collection requirements, assessors will likely be spending more time on-site to complete assessments. As a result, assessors may experience increased costs associated with carrying out an EPC. This is a good time to review and potentially adjust your pricing structure to reflect the extra time and effort involved in delivering a more detailed and accurate assessment.
Elmhurst continue to advocate for the thorough and important job that assessors do and support the assessment community in reflecting this value in their prices.
7. How can I make sure I am prepared for all the changes?
Elmhurst members have access to a whole range of free resources included within their membership to help them get up to speed with the changes for RdSAP 10. These include:
- RdSAP 10 Technical Bulletins
- RdSAP Data Collection Site Survey Forms
- Videos to take you through additional data collection for RdSAP 10
- Software Walkthrough Videos
- RdSAP 10 Conventions
If you feel like you need a more comprehensive update on the changes, you can consider booking our RdSAP 10 Update training course with remote and on demand training options. Find out more here >
8. Are Elmhurst developing any new software to help support assessors once RdSAP 10 launches?
Elmhurst will be releasing a comprehensive update to the existing RdSAP Online and RdSAP Go software to incorporate the changes for RdSAP 10. To help assessors understand the upcoming changes, we recommend watching our software walkthrough videos which can be found on the Member Resources page, here >
In addition, we are exploring innovative solutions designed to make collecting data easier for assessors, particularly for our RdSAP Go software.
9. What do I need to do on the launch day of RdSAP 10 to make sure I am ready to undertake RdSAP 10 assessments?
Further details regarding what members need to do on the day of the RdSAP 10 launch (15th June), including guidance on software updates and timings, will be shared with members shortly.
Please keep an eye on our Notification Centre in Access Elmhurst for updates.
10. What should I be telling my customers?
We recommend that assessors begin informing their customers about the upcoming changes to energy assessments so they are prepared for how the process may differ. RdSAP 10 presents a valuable opportunity to highlight the improved accuracy of assessments due to additional data collection. You can reassure your customers that they will receive a more precise evaluation of their property’s energy efficiency, along with more relevant and effective recommendations for improvement.
The update to the RdSAP methodology may also require more time to be spent on-site. This presents a good opportunity to review and adjust your pricing structure to reflect the additional work involved. If you do plan to increase your fees, be transparent with your clients, clearly explain the reasons for the change and emphasise the added value they will receive. Clear communication fosters trust and helps customers understand the benefits of the new methodology updates.