Introduction to LEED Certifications

If you've decided to join the growing green community, the option of a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certification will pop up during the building process. Although it is human nature to automatically reject the additional headache of any type of certification, a LEED Certification is actually profitable, beneficial, and an easy process to follow.

Whether you’re a first-time builder or a seasoned pro who is considering crossing over into greener territory, chances are you need three basic questions answered: “What is a LEED Certification?”, “Why do I need one?” and most importantly, “How can I get one?”

What is a LEED Certfication?

A LEED Certification is simply an advertisement to the public that your building project is officially ‘green’- meaning, it was designed and built specifically with the goal of improving performance in energy savings, water efficiency, CO2 emissions reduction, improved environmental quality, and stewardship of resources and sensitivity to their impacts.

The certification is comprised of a set of standards evaluating the environmental sustainability of the design, construction and operation of buildings. This evaluation relies on the LEED green building rating system, which has the purpose of promoting design and construction practices that increase profitability while reducing the negative environmental impacts of buildings.

Since its creation in 1998, LEED has grown to encompass more than 14,000 projects in the United States and 30 other countries.

Why do I Want One?

As concerns about the environment grow, any steps taken toward a greener earth is a phenomenal achievement. A shiny new LEED Certified plaque posted on your home or building will not only show that you are playing an important role in bettering the planet, but it will also increase press interest in your project, as the certification offers compelling proof to the public that you've achieved your environmental goals and your building is performing at the highest quality of ‘green‘ standards.

Finally, don’t forget tax breaks! Achieving LEED certification allows you take advantage of a growing number of state and local government incentives.

How Can I Get One?

LEED points are awarded on a 100-point scale, and credits are weighted to reflect their potential environmental impacts. Additionally, 10 bonus credits are available, four of which address regionally specific environmental issues. A project must satisfy all prerequisites and earn a minimum number of points to be certified.

LEED certification is obtained after submitting an application documenting compliance with the requirements of the rating system as well as paying registration and certification fees. Certification is granted solely by the Green Building Certification Institute responsible for the third party verification of project compliance with LEED requirements. To officially register, click here.