Created by the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a globally recognized rating system for green buildings. LEED provides a solid framework to help builders and building owners alike create structures that are healthy, energy efficient, and environmentally sustainable.

LEED certification is a coveted symbol for a steadily increasing number of homeowners—and for good reason. However, a common question we hear from homeowners is, "How do you get a LEED certification?" It involves meeting several criteria according to a specific set of guidelines, but here's the good news: Common Sense Inspections, Inc. is available to help you get there! Keep reading to learn more about LEED and how our team can help you get a green home certification.

Why Get a LEED Certification?

Certified green homes are popular because they decrease utility costs (as a result of reduced energy and water consumption), provide clean indoor air, and utilize safe, eco-friendly building materials. In other words, green homes are a win-win for property owners and the planet.

According to the U.S. Green Building Council, "green construction is becoming increasingly profitable and desirable within the international construction market" due to the growing demand for environmentally conscious buildings. This is why having a LEED certification is extremely beneficial. Simply put, it significantly increases your property value (you know, in addition to reducing your environmental impact).

But, again, this begs the question: How can homeowners achieve this sought-after LEED certification?

How It Works

In a nutshell, here's how the LEED for Homes certification process works:

• When planning your construction project, you pursue "credits" according to the LEED rating system that corresponds with your project. In this case, you'll be following the LEED v4 certification under the Homes rating system.
• You earn a certain number of points for each credit and prerequisite you fulfill.
• The U.S. Green Building Council will review your project once it's complete and award you a certification level based on the number of points you earned: Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum.

To help you plan your construction project so you earn the maximum number of credits, the U.S. Green Building Council provides many downloadable resources on its website—"Getting to Know LEED: Homes Design & Construction". Give them a careful read before you begin your project!

How We Can Help

Although Common Sense Inspections, Inc. is not a team of home builders, we are a team of inspection specialists. We can provide you with thorough and accurate testing to ensure your ventilation and indoor air quality are up to LEED's high standards. Proper ventilation and air quality are two key factors in green home certification.

So, whether you're building a new home from scratch or planning a major renovation to increase your resale value, give us a call for help. By starting off with our professional inspection services, you'll be able to pinpoint any existing weaknesses or areas that need improving in order to meet LEED requirements. This will set up your whole project for success!