Taking on a D&B contract? Here are 5 easy steps to ensure your energy performance targets are met

Shelley Pepperdine
May 1
3 min read

Ensuring energy compliance in design and build contracts can be frought with difficulties and too often is a cause headaches when it comes to project completion, but it doesn't have to be that way.

Follow these 5 easy steps and you can make sure all energy performance targets are met on time and on budget, whether you're looking for Part L compliance, a minimum EPC rating or hoping to achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating.

Step 1: Appoint an Energy Assessor Early

Engaging an energy assessor at the beginning of your project can streamline your path to energy compliance.

During construction, energy performance is often only thought about when the project is nearing completion and the EPC and As Built Part L documents are required. The work involved in creating the As Built energy model is the same whether it is started at the beginning of construction or the end. You are not saving any money by delaying making an appointment, in fact often the opposite is true.

Step 2: Optimise the RIBA Stage 4 Design

The RIBA Stage 4 is a critical phase for achieving a solid energy rating.

Rather than just accepting previous work, you should assess and refine this stage. Do not rely on the work of previous consultants, particularly if they have only taken the design to Stage 3 as the energy modelling will have been based largely on assumed data. Even if detailed design has been carried out, the quality of information included in design stage reports varies enormously and the only way to the design is on track is to check it as yourself, using a fully accredited, experienced energy assessor.

Step 3: Check energy ratings throughout construction

It might seem tedious, but consistently checking the energy rating during construction is crucial for avoiding nastly surprises on completion.

Make sure all changes are captured and the implications for energy performance understood. Swapping out a centralised DHW system in favour of point of use units may not seem like a big deal but it can make or break a project when it comes to passing the As Built calculations.

By identifying problems proactively, you can mitigate significant compliance setbacks, preserving both time and budget.

Step 4: Allocate Sufficient Time for the EPC

At some point we won’t have to worry about this as AI will do it all for us and there will be no need for energy assessors. But we’re not there yet.

Energy assessments are still being carried out by humans, with human limitations. Expecting an EPC for a 10,000m2 commercial building to be turned around in 24 hours is unrealistic so allow plenty of time for the final assessment to be carried out.

Consider treating the EPC as a key milestone. Ensure all stakeholders are prepared for a comprehensive review, ultimately leading to a successful energy performance rating and a compliant building.

Step 5: Minimize Risk by Securing a Dedicated Specialist

Lastly, hiring a dedicated energy compliance specialist can greatly diminish risks.

You wouldn’t ask a plumber to help out with the plastering, would you? Assigning responsibility for energy performance to a member of the project team is a false economy and doesn’t make best use of their skills. Get an experienced professional to take this on for you and eliminate the risk of costly delays.

Having someone focused solely on energy matters allows for timely identification and resolution of any potential issues, reduces stress as deadlines approach and paves a clear path to building compliance.

Wide angle view of a modern construction site showcasing energy-efficient building materials — A modern construction site actively employing sustainable practices.

Final Thoughts

Achieving energy targets in design and build contracts is entirely possible with systematic planning and execution. By following these five steps—appointing an energy assessor early, optimizing your design effectively, monitoring energy ratings throughout construction, allowing ample time for the EPC process, and hiring a dedicated specialist—you can greatly increase your chances of compliance.

These strategies not only help align your project with current standards but also reflect your commitment to responsible practices in the construction industry. As regulations continue to evolve, remaining proactive will help you stay ahead while positively impacting environmental sustainability.

Eye-level view of a construction worker reviewing architectural plans on-site — A construction worker examining architectural designs focused on energy compliance.

Sustainability By Design Ltd