Frequently asked questions
If you have a project-specific question, contact our team and we will advise on scope, programme, and next steps.
FAQs
Practical answers before you instruct
Clear guidance on timescales, coverage, compliance requirements, and service scope.
Do you cover the whole UK? General
Yes. We are based in Scotland and deliver projects across the UK, depending on the service and project requirements.
How quickly can you complete a job? General
Turnaround depends on service type and project scope, but many standard assessments can be completed within a few working days. Urgent instructions can often be prioritised.
What types of clients do you work with? General
We support landlords, letting agents, developers, architects, commercial property owners, public sector organisations, and housing providers.
How do I get a quote? General
Call or email us with your property or project details and we will return a clear, no-obligation quotation.
Do you work on both residential and commercial properties? General
Yes. We deliver both residential and non-domestic instructions across our full compliance and building performance service range.
Can you support one-off jobs as well as ongoing portfolios? General
Yes. We work on single properties, individual developments, and ongoing multi-site instructions.
When do I need an EPC? EPC
You will usually need an EPC when selling, letting, or constructing a property.
How long is an EPC valid for? EPC
An EPC is generally valid for 10 years, unless major changes are made that require a new assessment.
Can you help improve an EPC rating? EPC
Yes. We explain the factors affecting your current score and identify practical improvements where appropriate.
Do you provide EPCs for both domestic and commercial properties? EPC
Yes. We provide both domestic EPCs and commercial EPCs.
What is the difference between SAP and SBEM? SAP / SBEM
SAP is used for residential buildings. SBEM is used for non-domestic buildings.
Do I need SAP calculations for a new build? SAP / SBEM
In most residential new-build cases, yes. SAP calculations are typically required to demonstrate Building Regulations compliance.
Can you work directly with architects, developers, and design teams? SAP / SBEM
Yes. We regularly coordinate directly with project teams from early design through to completion.
Can SBEM calculations be used alongside EPC work? SAP / SBEM
Yes. Depending on project requirements, SBEM outputs can support wider compliance and related certification.
Is a fire risk assessment a legal requirement? Fire Risk
For many non-domestic premises and certain residential buildings, yes. The legal duty depends on building type and occupancy.
What does a fire risk assessment include? Fire Risk
It includes identification of fire hazards, risk evaluation, and practical recommendations to improve life safety and compliance.
Do you provide clear actions in your reports? Fire Risk
Yes. Reports are written to be practical and easy to implement, not just technical summaries.
What is a Section 63 assessment? Section 63
It is an energy compliance requirement affecting certain non-domestic buildings in Scotland.
Do you help with the Action Plan as well? Section 63
Yes. We explain the Action Plan requirements and guide clients through the practical next steps.
What is a TM59 assessment? TM59 / DSM
TM59 is an overheating assessment method used for residential developments.
When is a TM59 assessment required? TM59 / DSM
It is often required for residential schemes where overheating risk must be demonstrated for planning, design, or compliance.
What is Dynamic Simulation Modelling? TM59 / DSM
Dynamic Simulation Modelling is a detailed method of assessing building performance over time, including energy use, comfort, and overheating behaviour.
When would DSM be needed instead of a simpler method? TM59 / DSM
DSM is typically used for more complex buildings or where a deeper technical performance analysis is required.
Do landlords need a Legionella risk assessment? Legionella
Landlords have a duty to assess and manage Legionella risk in their rental properties.
How often should Legionella risk be reviewed? Legionella
It should be reviewed periodically and whenever there is a change to occupancy, the water system, or the property condition.
Can EPC and Legionella services be arranged together? Legionella
Yes. Where suitable, we can coordinate both services together for efficiency and simpler compliance management.