How to Choose a Certification Program

Will your next build be a certified green development? Sustainable building practices are an indicator of leadership and commitment to the environment. They are also quickly becoming the standard in the construction industry. Before your building can be green certified, you must select which green certification program you will use.

The decision depends on multiple factors.

Do your investors have a preference?

Are there local programs that are well-respected?

Are there local requirements and or incentives to certify through a specific program?

What is your build type? Is it new or rehab on an existing building? Is it a high-rise?

Does your architect and/or contractor have other projects certified through a specific program?

These are all factors you should consider when determining which green certification program to use. You should also understand your options, and which types of buildings each program was designed for. In the article “How to Choose a Green Certification Program,” Carl Seville of Multifamily Executive explains the differences between some of the major certification programs.

(Existing buildings are classified as either moderate or substantial rehab.)

How to choose a green certification program

LEED for Homes — Offers green certification for new buildings. Only certifies substantial (or “gut”) rehab on low and mid-rise building projects where the “walls and ceilings are exposed for inspection of insulation and air barriers.” Minor variations on certification based on the building type. Buildings up to three stories are classified as low-rise; four- to six-story buildings are classified as mid-rise; buildings over six stories are classified as high-rise. Mid-rise and high-rise certification standards includes criteria that are not requirements for low-rise buildings.

National Green Building Standard — Offers green certification for new buildings. Certifies all types of rehab projects, moderate and substantial. Uses the same certification criteria for buildings of all heights.

Energy Star — Focus on appliances, windows, etc., but has recently expanded to address indoor air quality and moisture management. Minor variations on certification based on the building type. Buildings up to three stories are classified as low-rise; four- and five- story buildings are classified as mid-rise; buildings over five stories are classified as high-rise.

Energy Star Multifamily High Rise — Offers certification for moderate rehab high-rise projects. Buildings more than five stories are classified as high-rise.

The programs listed above are national green certification programs. Use the U.S. Green Building Council’s Green Home Guide and its searchable database to find local certification programs for your area. Read more about how to select a green certification program.

What criteria have you used to select a green certification program on previous builds?