What recent changes have been made to LEED?
LEED v3 (2009) established many changes, including the introduction of regional priority credits. Before, there was no differentiation between where a building was constructed and the environmental issues in that location.
The LEED certification levels and processes have stayed the same, but the number of points needed to achieve each level has changed to a 100-point system. The levels are Certified, 40-49 points; Silver, 50-59 points; Gold, 60-79 points; and Platinum, 80 and above. There are 110 available points if you add the four regional credits and six innovative design credits.
The professional accreditation process also changed. Before, there was only one test under which people were accredited as LEED APs, and no experience was required. Now, three tracks have been created — LEED Green Associate, LEED AP and LEED Fellow — which allow people with significant experience to distinguish themselves.
What is included in the certification process?
The entire certification process is channeled through the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI), so you need to work with someone experienced in the certification process to avoid unnecessary time and money spent on learning how the process works. There are five steps to certify a project: registering the project, preparing the application, submitting the application and documentation, having the application reviewed by GBCI and having the project certified.
An appeal process is available for points (also known as credits) denied by GBCI. Careful selection of the credits sought is vital to certification to avoid later appealing denied credits. Have knowledgeable people help you understand the requirements for each rating system’s prerequisites and credits and use all resources available. Your team should include designers, architects and legal counsel to help you make design and construction decisions early in the process to maximize financial resources and to advise you on the legal issues.
What does the future of LEED look like?
By 2010, industry analysts estimate that approximately 10 percent of commercial construction costs will be allocated to LEED and green projects. We are also seeing discussions by local governments to require LEED for private projects. LEED will take center stage as the discussion on the energy crisis, global warming and the search for alternative fuel sources continues.
Cristina E. Spicer, LEED AP, is an associate in the real estate group at Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C. Reach her at (314) 335-6827 or [email protected].
