What is LEED certification?
LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. It is an international certification seeking to promote the effective and efficient use of materials, energy and water. The various building standards included in LEED apply to both new and renovated buildings.
LEED certification is increasingly required by future owners and managers of real estate portfolios, as it guarantees the quality of construction. It concerns residential, commercial, industrial and institutional buildings.
How do I get a building certified to LEED?
The Canada Green Building Council or CaGBC certifies every construction project in Canada. The institution uses an evaluation grid and awards points following a series of careful examinations of the buildings.
The points system
Four main levels of LEED certification are awarded based on the ecological performance of each project. Each level is assigned a score expressed in points and is as follows:
- LEED Certified: at least 40 points;
- LEED Silver: at least 50 points;
- LEED Gold: at least 60 points;
- LEED Platinum: at least 80 points.
Criteria for awarding points
Points are awarded through seven main criteria, which are as follows:
- The choice of construction site and the disturbance caused to the local fauna and flora;
- Accessibility to public transport or ecological vehicles (bicycles, charging stations for electric cars, etc.);
- The effectiveness of water management;
- Energy performance;
- The choice of sustainable, low-polluting materials and waste recycling management;
- The quality of life of the occupants including air quality, natural light and temperature in the buildings;
- Innovation, including the use of modern devices in the building.