LEED-AP-BD+C LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) Questions and Answers

 According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction1, the Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Indoor Air Quality Assessment, Option 1. Flush-Out requires the project to perform a building flush-out by supplying a total air volume of 14,000 cubic feet of outdoor air per square foot of gross floor area while maintaining an internal temperature of at least 60°F and no higher than 80°F and relative humidity no higher than 60%. The gross floor area of the building is 1,000 ft2 and the ceiling height is 10 ft, so the required volume of supply air for the entire building flush-out is:

14,000 ft3/sf x 1,000 sf = 14,000,000 ft3

References:

LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4

According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, diverted construction waste is defined as "materials that are diverted from disposal in landfills or incineration facilities and are instead reused, recycled, composted, or salvaged"1. Asphalt with aggregate is an example of a material that can be recycled and reused for paving or other applications. Excavated soil and land-clearing debris are excluded from the calculation of the total construction and demolition waste for the MR Credit Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction1. Alternative daily cover is a material that is used to cover the surface of an active landfill at the end of each day to control odors, pests, and litter. It is not considered as diversion because it does not reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills2. References: MR Credit Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction3142

For Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Advanced Energy Metering, the minimum amount of time that the metering system should store data is 36 months. This is to ensure that the data can be used for long-term analysis and verification of energy performance1. The credit also requires that the metering system be capable of transmitting data to a remote location and reporting energy use at least hourly1. References: Advanced energy metering

For major renovation and new construction projects, the required energy and water-related system analyses should be the same except for plug and process load needs. Plug and process loads are the electrical loads that are not related to lighting, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, such as computers, appliances, equipment, and machinery. Plug and process load needs may vary depending on the type and function of the building, and they can have a significant impact on the energy performance and demand of the building. Therefore, the project team should analyze the plug and process load needs for each project and design strategies to reduce or optimize them. The other factors, such as site conditions, massing and orientation, and building envelope performance, are common to both major renovation and new construction projects, and they should be analyzed in the same way for both types of projects.

References:

•LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Integrative Process Credit: Integrative Process, page 811

•Integrative Process Worksheet2

Minimum Energy Performance

A project’s massing and site orientation can have a direct impact on the minimum energy performance prerequisite, which requires projects to demonstrate a percentage of energy cost savings compared to a baseline building. Massing and orientation affect the amount of solar heat gain, daylight availability, natural ventilation potential, and wind exposure of the building, which in turn influence the heating, cooling, lighting, and ventilation loads and strategies. By optimizing the massing and orientation of the building, projects can reduce their energy consumption and improve their thermal and visual comfort.

References:

Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 – Pages 279-2801

Building Massing & Orientation | Sustainability Workshop2

This option requires the project to calculate the contributing value of the fixture by multiplying the cost of the fixture by the percentage of recycled content by weight1. Since the shades are 10% of the overall weight of the fixture and are 50% post-consumer recycled content, the contributing value of the fixture is:

$1,500 x 10% x 50% = $75

References: = LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Recycled content | U.S. Green Building Council.

Reducing the envelope load involves minimizing the heat that enters or escapes through a building’s envelope (walls, windows, roof, etc.). Summer solar shading is an effective strategy to block direct sunlight during warmer months, decreasing the cooling load on the HVAC system. This method helps reduce solar heat gain, which lowers energy usage for cooling. Other options like maximizing daylighting (B) increase natural light but may also increase heat gain, and decreasing the opaque wall area (C) can actually increase energy loss. Economizers (D) are HVAC strategies and don’t directly reduce the envelope load.

Materials and Resources Credit, Building Product Disclosure and Optimization - Sourcing of Raw Materials, Option 2. Leadership Extraction Practices

Natural rubber flooring is a bio-based material that can contribute to the achievement of Option 2 of the Sourcing of Raw Materials credit, which requires using products that meet at least one of the responsible extraction criteria for at least 25%, by cost, of the total value of permanently installed building products in the project1. By meeting the Sustainable Agriculture Standard (SAN), the natural rubber flooring demonstrates that it has been produced in a way that conserves biodiversity, protects natural resources, and enhances social and economic well-being2. Therefore, the cost of the substituted flooring ($80,000) can be counted towards the credit threshold.

References:

Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 – Pages 263-2641

Sustainable Agriculture Standard | Rainforest Alliance3

This option requires the project to include all parking spaces that are outside the project boundary but are used by the project occupants, visitors, or customers in the calculations for the reduced parking footprint credit1. This option ensures that the project accounts for the total parking demand and supply associated with the project, regardless of the location of the parking spaces2.

References: = [LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide], NC-v4 LTc7: Reduced parking footprint | LEEDuser.

According to the LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, the Sustainable Sites Credit, Open Space requires the project to provide outdoor space greater than or equal to 30% of the total site area (including building footprint). At least 25% of that outdoor space must be vegetated, have overhead vegetated canopy, or be a water body. Option A does not qualify as outdoor space, Option B is not vegetated or a water body, and Option C only applies to projects with a FAR of less than 1.0. Option D meets the requirements for both outdoor space and vegetation, and also contributes to the protection or restoration of habitat1. References: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Sustainable Sites Credit, Open Space, Requirements1

The answer is C. A high evapotranspiration rate will result in a higher demand for potable water use in irrigation. Evapotranspiration is the process by which water is transferred from the land to the atmosphere by evaporation from the soil and other surfaces and by transpiration from plants. The higher the evapotranspiration rate, the more water is lost from the soil and plants, and the more irrigation is needed to replenish the moisture. The other options will not increase the demand for potable water use in irrigation. A sparsely planted area will have less vegetation and less transpiration, reducing the water demand. A drip irrigation system will deliver water directly to the plant roots, minimizing evaporation and runoff, and saving water. A rainwater harvesting system will collect and store rainwater for irrigation, reducing the reliance on potable water sources. For more information on outdoor water use reduction and irrigation efficiency, you can refer to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction1 or the WaterSense Water Budget Tool2.

The Location and Transportation Credit, Bicycle Facilities, requires the project team to provide a vicinity map that shows the bicycle network, the route and the distance along the network to eligible destination(s) for all LEED Building Design and Construction projects. The vicinity map is a supporting material that demonstrates that the project site is within a 200-yard (180-meter) walking distance of a bicycle network that connects to at least one of the following: diverse uses, public transportation, recreation facilities, or schools1. The vicinity map must also show the scale and the north arrow, and indicate the project site and the eligible destination(s)2. The photographs of bicycle network signage and directional signposts, the photographs of the installed bicycle storage and shower facilities, and the manufacturer specifications for the chosen bicycle storage facilities are not required for the bicycle network, but for the bicycle storage and shower facilities.

References:

•LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Location and Transportation Credit: Bicycle Facilities, page 1281

•LEED v4.1 Bicycle Storage Requirements

Achievement of the Location and Transportation Credit, Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses may be affected by the move of the main entrance to the opposite side of the building. This is because the credit requires that the project be located within a minimum density area and within walking distance of diverse uses1. The walking distance is measured from a main functional entry of the project building to the diverse use entry1. If the main functional entry is moved, the distance to the diverse uses may change and affect the credit achievement. The other credits are not affected by the move of the main entrance, as they are based on the location of the project site, not the building entry. The Location and Transportation Credit, High-Priority Site rewards projects that are located on sites that are previously developed, infill, or adjacent to existing development2. The Location and Transportation Credit, Sensitive Land Protection rewards projects that are located on sites that do not contain sensitive land features such as prime farmland, wetlands, or habitats3. The Location and Transportation Credit, LEED for Neighborhood Development Location rewards projects that are located within the boundary of a LEED for Neighborhood Development certified plan4.

References:

•Surrounding density and diverse uses, p. 1

•High-priority site, p. 1

•Sensitive land protection, p. 1

•LEED for neighborhood development location, p. 1

This strategy would qualify as an innovation credit because it is not addressed in the LEED green building rating system, and it achieves significant, measurable environmental performance by educating the students and the community about the benefits of green building. The project team would need to identify the intent, requirements, submittals, and design approach of this strategy in the Basis of Design document1. This strategy is also listed as an example of innovation in the LEED Innovation Catalog2.

References: = NC-v4.1 INc1: Innovation | LEEDuser, LEED credit library | U.S. Green Building Council

Contractor

The contractor is the project team member who should be integrated early into the design phase to assist with earning the Materials and Resources Prerequisite, Construction and Demolition Waste Management Planning. The contractor is responsible for implementing the waste management plan, which includes estimating the types and quantities of waste materials, identifying the diversion strategies, selecting the waste haulers and recyclers, tracking and documenting the waste diversion performance, and training the subcontractors and workers. The contractor can provide valuable input on how to reduce, reuse, and recycle the construction and demolition waste, as well as identify potential challenges and opportunities for achieving the prerequisite requirements.

References:

Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 – Pages 263-2641

LEED Certification and Sustainable Construction Waste Management1

LEED commissioning (Cx) requirements focus on ensuring energy and water-consuming systems operate as intended. The basic systems that require commissioning under LEED include Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, and Renewable Energy (A). These systems are crucial for a building's energy efficiency and operational performance. Structural and non-energy-consuming systems, such as structural or audiovisual elements, are typically outside the commissioning scope. Proper commissioning of these systems helps ensure sustainable building operations aligned with the owner’s project requirements.

Interior paint must always be included in Materials and Resources credits. This is because interior paint is considered as a permanently installed product, which is defined by the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction as "a product that is installed in a project permanently or semi-permanently, such that removal would require demolition or substantial renovation."1 Permanently installed products must be included in the calculations for the following Materials and Resources credits: Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction, Building Product Disclosure and Optimization - Environmental Product Declarations, Building Product Disclosure and Optimization - Sourcing of Raw Materials, and Building Product Disclosure and Optimization - Material Ingredients.1 The other options are not always included in Materials and Resources credits. Faucets (option A) and fire suppression systems (option D) are considered as mechanical, electrical, and plumbing components, which are excluded from the scope of Materials and Resources credits unless they are specifically addressed by the credit requirements.1 Furniture (option B) is considered as a non-permanently installed product, which is optional to include in Materials and Resources credits, except for the Building Product Disclosure and Optimization - Material Ingredients credit, where furniture must be included if it is within the project scope.1 References: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, p. 5791; LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, p. 5801; LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, p. 5811; LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, p. 5821; LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, p. 5831

Quality views are defined in LEED as those which consist of multiple elements of nature, weather, or movement that allow for a connection beyond the interior space. Views that allow a clear line of sight to the exterior via vision glazing, with a view factor of 3 or greater, qualify for this credit. Fixed glazing in common spaces can also contribute to this credit.

References: This information is a synthesis based on the criteria for 'Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Quality Views' from the LEED BD+C Reference Guide available on the USGBC website. For a detailed explanation, please refer to the specific credit requirements in the LEED BD+C Reference Guide.

According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, no smoking signage must be placed within 10 feet (3 meters) of every building entrance, except for alarmed emergency exits. This applies to both the main entrance and the service entrances, regardless of their location or frequency of use. The signage is intended to communicate the no-smoking policy to occupants and visitors and prevent environmental tobacco smoke from entering the building. References: EQ Prerequisite Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction123

To achieve the maximum number of Energy and Atmosphere points, the project team must include an energy modeler and a commissioning agent. The energy modeler is responsible for performing the whole-building energy simulation that demonstrates the energy performance improvement over the baseline building, which is required for Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 2 and Credit 11. The commissioning agent is responsible for verifying that the building’s energy systems are installed, calibrated, and perform according to the owner’s project requirements, basis of design, and construction documents, which is required for Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 1 and Credit 31. The commissioning agent also ensures that the renewable energy systems are properly integrated and functioning2. The contractor and the construction manager are not directly involved in the energy modeling or commissioning process, although they must follow the design specifications and coordinate with the commissioning agent. The facilities manager is not required for achieving the Energy and Atmosphere points, although they may benefit from the training and documentation provided by the commissioning agent. References:

LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 361

Understanding Integrative Design in LEED v4, p. 92

The Sustainable Sites Credit, Site Assessment requires the project to conduct and document a site inventory and analysis that evaluates the existing conditions and features of the site, such as topography, hydrology, human use, climate, vegetation, soils, and human health effects1. The purpose of the site assessment is to inform the design and development of the site in a way that protects, restores, and enhances the environmental quality and performance of the site1. The site assessment should include the following elements:

Topography: The shape and elevation of the land surface, including slopes, drainage patterns, and erosion potential.

Hydrology: The movement, distribution, and quality of water on the site, including surface water, groundwater, precipitation, and runoff.

Human use: The current and planned use of the site and its surroundings, including zoning, land use, transportation, utilities, and cultural resources.

Climate: The long-term weather patterns and conditions of the site, including temperature, humidity, wind, solar radiation, and precipitation.

Vegetation: The types, distribution, and condition of plants on the site, including native, invasive, and endangered species, and their ecological functions and values.

Soils: The physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil on the site, including texture, structure, organic matter, pH, fertility, and contamination.

Human health effects: The potential impacts of the site conditions and features on the health and well-being of the occupants and the surrounding community, such as noise, air quality, water quality, and exposure to hazardous substances.

References:

LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4

Sustainable Sites Credit, Site Assessment

Site Assessment - SITES

Site Assessment and Analysis - Whole Building Design Guide

Using plug-in devices can affect the energy performance of the building, which is one of the criteria for achieving Indoor Environmental Quality Credit. Thermal Comfort. The LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction states that "the project team must demonstrate that the proposed design meets the minimum energy performance requirements of ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010, Appendix G, with errata"1. Plug-in devices are considered as part of the process loads in the energy model, and they can increase the energy consumption and demand of the building. Therefore, the project team must account for the plug-in devices in the energy model and ensure that the proposed design meets or exceeds the baseline performance rating.

References:

LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite: Minimum Energy Performance, page 2591

LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Indoor Environmental Quality Credit: Thermal Comfort, page 7041

This rating system is suitable for projects where the developer controls the design and construction of the entire core and shell base building, but has no control over the design and construction of the tenant fit-out. Since the building will have a data center and retail stores in the future, but these are not the primary function of the entire building, LEED BD+C: Core & Shell is more appropriate than LEED BD+C: Data Centers or LEED BD+C: Retail.

References: = LEED rating system selection guidance, LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide

A charrette is a collaborative design process that involves multiple stakeholders, such as the owner, the design team, the community, and the users. By including the public in a charrette for a new school before the pre-design phase, potential partnerships with the community can be revealed. For example, the school might share facilities or resources with a nearby library, park, or community center. This can enhance the social and environmental benefits of the project, as well as reduce costs and increase efficiency. References: LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Introduction, page 171; LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Integrative Process, page 291

An economic advantage of the infill site is that it reduces the need for new utility infrastructure. This is because the infill site is located within an existing urban area that already has access to water, sewer, electricity, and other utilities1. The developer can save on the costs of extending or installing new utility lines and services to the rural greenfield site, which may not have adequate or reliable utility infrastructure2. The other options are not economic advantages, but rather environmental benefits of the infill site. Protecting greenfields and farmland, preserving habitat and natural resources, and reducing potential damage to an existing stream are all positive outcomes of avoiding development on the rural greenfield site, but they do not directly translate into monetary savings for the developer3.

References:

•High-priority site, p. 1

•The Economics of Infill Development, p. 2

•LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 69

For the Water Efficiency (WE) Prerequisite: Indoor Water Use Reduction, the kitchen sink is included in fixture calculations as it directly consumes water. The dishwasher must meet ENERGY STAR® standards or equivalent performance requirements to ensure water efficiency, though it is not included in the fixture calculations. The coffee machine, as a minor appliance with minimal water use, is not included in this prerequisite (B). This approach aligns with LEED’s focus on larger water-consuming fixtures while ensuring energy and water-efficient appliances where relevant.

The intent of the Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Outdoor Water Use Reduction is to reduce outdoor water consumption by either eliminating the need for irrigation or reducing the irrigation demand by at least 30% from the baseline. This prerequisite requires project teams to evaluate the project’s outdoor water budget and irrigation water demand using the EPA WaterSense Water Budget Tool or a local equivalent. This will help project teams to estimate and optimize water use in landscape designs by selecting appropriate plant species and irrigation system efficiency.

References: = LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Outdoor Water Use Reduction Credits in LEED v4, Part Two: LEED v4 BD+C Outdoor Water Reduction and Related Credits

When calculating the reverberation time of a room, the operating sound level of the nearest HVAC equipment is the least relevant piece of information. The reverberation time is the time it takes for the sound to decay by 60 decibels after the source stops emitting sound. The reverberation time depends on the volume and the surface area of the room, as well as the sound absorption coefficients of the materials that cover the surfaces. The height and width of the room are needed to calculate the volume and the surface area. The noise reduction coefficient of the ceiling surface and the sound absorption coefficient of the floor surface are needed to calculate the total sound absorption of the room. The operating sound level of the nearest HVAC equipment is not relevant for calculating the reverberation time, but it may affect the background noise level and the speech intelligibility in the room.

References:

•LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Indoor Environmental Quality Credit: Acoustic Performance, page 7101

•Sounds of Silence: Acoustic Performance in LEED v4.12

A current facilities requirements and operations and maintenance plan must contain any changes in schedules or setpoints for different seasons, days of the week, and times of day. This is to ensure that the building systems are operating efficiently and according to the design intent. The other options are too limited or too specific and do not cover all the possible variations in schedules or setpoints.References: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Energy and Atmosphere Category, EAp Fundamental Commissioning and Verification, page 569.

Average number of occupants standing or seated

To identify the regularly occupied spaces on a project, the LEED consultant should consider the average number of occupants standing or seated in each space, as this is the criterion used by the LEED Reference Guide for Green Building Design and Construction, 20091. Regularly occupied spaces are defined as areas where workers are seated or standing as they work (or perform regular tasks) inside a building2. The typical duration of occupancy in each space per day is not necessarily relevant, as some spaces may be used intermittently but still qualify as regularly occupied2. The rate of outdoor air provided per person and the fire ratings of installed wall and ceiling assemblies are not related to the definition of regularly occupied spaces, but rather to other credits such as Indoor Environmental Quality or Fire and Life Safety.

The rating system that is being used if all of the credits below have been submitted towards certification is Building Design and Construction: Hospitality. This is because the Location and Transportation Credit, Reduced Parking Footprint and the Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Acoustic Performance are only available for the Hospitality rating system among the four options. The other two credits are common for all the rating systems. References: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, p. 301; LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, p. 401; LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, p. 411; LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, p. 421

SRI generally decreases with age

The Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) is a measure of the ability of a surface to reflect solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. It is calculated using the values of solar reflectance and thermal emittance of the surface. The higher the SRI, the lower the heat island effect. However, SRI generally decreases with age due to factors such as weathering, dirt accumulation, and biological growth. Therefore, the Sustainable Sites Credit, Heat Island Reduction takes into account both new and three-year aged SRI values for roofing material to ensure that the material maintains a high level of reflectance over time.

References:

SpecTopics: Heat Island Reduction Credit and LEED V4/V4.1 - Carlisle SynTec1

Solar Reflectance Index Measurements - Surface Optics Corp.2

According to the LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, the 40/60 rule provides guidance for making a decision when several rating systems appear to be appropriate for a project. To use this rule, first assign a rating system to each square foot or square meter of the building, and then choose the most appropriate rating system based on the resulting percentages. The entire gross floor area of a LEED project must be certified under a single rating system and is subject to all prerequisites and attempted credits in that rating system, regardless of mixed construction or space usage type. If a rating system is appropriate for less than 40% of the gross floor area of a LEED project building or space, then that rating system should not be used. If a rating system is appropriate for more than 60% of the gross floor area of a LEED project building or space, then that rating system should be used. If an appropriate rating system falls between 40% and 60% of the gross floor area, project teams must independently assess their situation and decide which rating system is most applicable1. References: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, LEED Rating System Selection Guidance1

A vegetated shading structure is an example of a nonroof measure for Sustainable Sites Credit, Heat Island Reduction. The heat island effect is the phenomenon of urban areas having higher air temperatures than surrounding rural areas due to the absorption and emission of heat by human-made surfaces, such as buildings, roads, and pavements. The heat island effect can have negative impacts on the environment, human health, and energy consumption. One of the strategies to reduce the heat island effect is to use nonroof measures that provide shade, reflectivity, or evapotranspiration for at least 50% of the site hardscape, such as parking lots, walkways, plazas, and courtyards1. A vegetated shading structure is a type of nonroof measure that consists of a trellis or pergola that supports climbing plants or vines that provide shade and cooling for the underlying surface. A vegetated shading structure can also enhance the aesthetic and ecological value of the site2.

The other options are not examples of nonroof measures for Sustainable Sites Credit, Heat Island Reduction. A playground with artificial turf is not a nonroof measure, but a roof measure, as it is considered as part of the building envelope. Artificial turf is also not a compliant roof measure, as it does not meet the minimum solar reflectance index (SRI) or vegetated roof requirements1. A shade structure with a three-year aged SRI value of 0.2 is not a compliant nonroof measure, as it does not meet the minimum SRI value of 29 for nonroof surfaces1. A paving material with a three-year aged SRI value of 0.2 is also not a compliant nonroof measure, as it does not meet the minimum SRI value of 29 for nonroof surfaces1.

References:

•LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Sustainable Sites Credit: Heat Island Reduction, page 1281

•Heat Island Reduction | U.S. Green Building Council2

According to the LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Federal Renewal Community sites are designated by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as areas that are eligible for tax incentives to encourage businesses to locate and hire residents within the community. These sites are considered High Priority Sites for project development, as they support the revitalization of economically distressed areas. The other federal agencies listed do not designate Federal Renewal Community sites. References: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Location and Transportation Credit, High Priority Site, Requirements1; U.S. Internal Revenue Service, Renewal Communities2

The Whole Building Simulation option is used to meet the Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Minimum Energy Performance for a hospital project. This option involves creating a detailed computer model of the building to simulate its energy performance and identify opportunities for improvement.References: LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) V4 resources 1

The basis of energy consumption in determining the percentage of green power or carbon offsets is the quantity of energy used by the project, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh) or British thermal units (Btu). Green power is electricity generated from renewable sources, such as solar, wind, hydro, biomass, or geothermal. Carbon offsets are reductions or removals of greenhouse gas emissions from a project or activity that compensates for the emissions from another source. According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction1, the Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Green Power and Carbon Offsets, requires the project to engage in a contract for qualified resources that meet the following requirements:

The contract term is at least five years.

The green power or carbon offsets are based on the quantity of energy consumed by the building.

The green power is Green-e Energy certified or the equivalent.

The carbon offsets are Green-e Climate certified, Verified Carbon Standard certified, Gold Standard certified, or the equivalent.

References:

LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4

Green Power and Carbon Offsets | U.S. Green Building Council

Green Power and Carbon Offsets - LEEDuser

Green Power and Carbon Offsets - LEED v4 for BD+C: New Construction …

The Construction General Permit (CGP) for the Sustainable Sites Prerequisite, Construction Activity Pollution Prevention, must contain an installation plan for perimeter control. This is part of the Erosion and Sedimentation Control (ESC) Plan, which is designed to prevent loss of soil during construction by stormwater runoff and/or wind erosion, prevent sedimentation of storm sewer or receiving streams, and prevent polluting the air with dust and particulate matter1.

References:

Sustainable Sites Prerequisites | GlobalSpec

For the building to receive one point for Location and Transportation Credit, Green Vehicles, the rate for green vehicles must be 80% less than the regular parking rate. Therefore, if the discounted parking rate is $450 per month, the rate for green vehicles must be $90 per month (20% of $450).References: LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) V4 resources 1

LEED project boundaries that include multiple similar buildings which are all eligible for certification can be registered as a group project. A group project allows multiple buildings (or interior spaces within multiple buildings) on a shared site to be certified as a single LEED project. These projects must meet the criteria outlined in the LEED Campus Guidance for Projects on a Shared Site, such as having the same construction contract, ownership, management, space type, rating system, and compliance paths. A group project will receive one certification and rating for the entire group.References: Group Projects (previously Multiple Building Projects), CAGBC News, September 1, 2020.

According to the LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Option 2 of the Location and Transportation Credit, Green Vehicles requires the project to inventory the school fleet to develop and create a plan for all buses to meet the emission requirements. The plan must include a timeline for implementation and a budget. The emission requirements are based on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards for heavy-duty vehicles1. References: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Location and Transportation Credit, Green Vehicles, Option 2: Green Buses or School-Owned Vehicles1

The best answer is C. native vegetation. This is because:

•Native vegetation is adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, and therefore requires less water than non-native plants1.

•Native vegetation also supports local biodiversity, reduces erosion, and enhances the aesthetic value of the landscape2.

•Potable water is not a good option for water-efficient landscape design, as it is a scarce and valuable resource that should be conserved for human consumption and hygiene3.

•Sprinkler systems are not a good option for water-efficient landscape design, as they can waste a lot of water through evaporation, runoff, and overspray4. Drip irrigation or micro-sprinklers are more efficient methods of watering plants.

•Permeable pavement is not a good option for water-efficient landscape design, as it is not a plant-based element, but a hardscape feature that allows water to infiltrate into the ground. Permeable pavement can reduce stormwater runoff and pollution, but it does not directly contribute to water conservation in the landscape.

References: 1: Water Efficient Landscaping Ideas: 5 Water Wise Tips 2: [Native Plants for Water Conservation] 3: [Water Conservation | US EPA] 4: [Sprinkler Irrigation - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics] : [Drip Irrigation - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics] : [Permeable Pavement - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics] : [Permeable Pavement Benefits and Costs]

The Water Efficiency Credit, Indoor Water Use Reduction aims to reduce indoor water consumption by installing water-efficient fixtures and fittings, such as faucets, showerheads, toilets, and urinals1. A commercial dishwasher that is ENERGY STAR® labeled or performance equivalent would help reduce the water use for dishwashing, which is one of the process water uses included in the credit calculation2. A standard garbage disposal would not reduce water use, but rather increase it. An electronic submeter at the domestic water supply pipe to the building would help measure and monitor water use, but not directly reduce it. An open-loop HVAC system that discharges potable cooling water to a nearby lake would waste a lot of water and potentially harm the environment.

References:

Indoor Water Use Reduction

“Maximizing Water Efficiency in Commercial Buildings: Understanding LEED BD+C Water Efficiency Credits”

The correct answer is A, site conditions. According to the LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, the Integrative Process Prerequisite, Integrative Project Planning and Design, requires the project team to perform a preliminary “simple box” energy modeling and analysis before the completion of schematic design. The purpose of this analysis is to evaluate the energy performance goals of the project and to identify and compare the energy-related design strategies. The analysis should include the following aspects1:

Site conditions, such as climate, solar orientation, shading, and natural ventilation potential

Massing and orientation, such as building shape, size, and orientation, and how they affect the heating and cooling loads, daylight availability, and passive design strategies

Basic envelope attributes, such as insulation levels, window-to-wall ratio, glazing properties, infiltration rates, and thermal bridging

Lighting levels, such as the target illumination levels, daylighting potential, and lighting power density

Plug and process loads, such as the equipment and appliances that consume electricity, and their schedules and controls

Programmatic and operational parameters, such as the occupancy, operating hours, and zoning of the building

Thermal comfort ranges, such as the acceptable temperature and humidity levels for the occupants

HVAC system selection, such as the type, efficiency, and control of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system

The other choices are not aspects that should be analyzed when pursuing an integrative design process focusing on energy-related systems, because:

Potable water availability is related to the water efficiency and water quality goals of the project, not the energy performance goals2.

Acoustic performance of the project is related to the indoor environmental quality and occupant comfort goals of the project, not the energy performance goals3.

Applicability of green vehicles to the project is related to the location and transportation and greenhouse gas emissions goals of the project, not the energy performance goals4.

References: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Integrative Process Prerequisite, Integrative Project Planning and Design, Option 1. Energy-Related Systems1; LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Indoor Water Use Reduction, Requirements2; LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Indoor Environmental Quality Prerequisite, Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance, Requirements3; LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Location and Transportation Credit, Green Vehicles, Requirements4

To comply with Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Thermal Comfort, the standard that needs to be followed is ASHRAE 55-2010, Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy, with errata or a local equivalent1. This standard specifies the combinations of indoor thermal environmental factors and personal factors that will produce thermal environmental conditions acceptable to a majority of the occupants within the space2. The standard also provides methods for measuring and evaluating thermal comfort, as well as guidance for design, operation, and maintenance of thermal comfort systems2. References: Thermal comfort; ASHRAE 55-2010

According to the LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, the Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Fundamental Commissioning and Verification, requires the project to hire a Commissioning Authority (CxA) to oversee the commissioning process for the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and renewable energy systems and assemblies. The CxA must have documented commissioning authority experience in at least two building projects, and must not be an employee of the design or construction firms, although they may be contracted through them. The CxA must report the results, findings, and recommendations directly to the owner1.

One of the required responsibilities for the CxA to achieve the prerequisite is to verify installation and performance of the commissioned systems. This includes conducting site observations and spot-checking of equipment installation, performing functional performance testing of the systems, verifying system performance by reviewing testing and balancing reports, and preparing a summary commissioning report of the activities and results1.

The other choices are not required responsibilities for the CxA to achieve the prerequisite, but they are additional responsibilities for the CxA to achieve the Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Enhanced Commissioning, which goes beyond the prerequisite by including more systems, more verification activities, and more documentation. These additional responsibilities are2:

Verify that training requirements are completed. This includes reviewing training plans, agendas, and materials, and verifying that the training delivery and documentation are completed and consistent with the owner’s project requirements (OPR).

Develop systems manual for the commissioned systems. This includes compiling and reviewing the systems manual that provides the necessary information for operating and maintaining the commissioned systems.

Review contractor submittals for the commissioned systems. This includes reviewing the design intent and basis of design documentation, and providing feedback on the contractor submittals related to the commissioned systems, such as shop drawings, product data, and samples.

References: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Fundamental Commissioning and Verification, Requirements1; LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Enhanced Commissioning, Requirements2

A multiple-zone system is a system that has one or more air handlers supplying conditioned air to more than one zone. A zone is a space or group of spaces within a building with heating and cooling requirements that are sufficiently similar so that desired conditions (e.g., temperature) can be maintained throughout using a single controlling device. The ventilation rate procedure calculations must be based on the multiple-zone system configuration because the HVAC system in the question serves different zones with different ventilation requirements. References: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, p. 6881; ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2010, Section 6.2.52

According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the project must provide outdoor space that is at least 30% of the total site area (including the building footprint), of which at least 25% must be vegetated. In this case, the project must provide 0.3 x 240,000 ft2 = 72,000 ft2 (6 689 m2) of outdoor space, of which 0.25 x 72,000 ft2 = 18,000 ft2 (1 672 m2) must be vegetated. Therefore, option C is the correct answer. References: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, p. 5411

The Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Renewable Energy Production rewards projects that use renewable energy systems to offset building energy costs1. According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction2, the credit has two options: Option 1. On-Site Renewable Energy and Option 2. Off-Site Renewable Energy. Option 1 requires the project to use renewable energy systems that are located on the project site and that produce electricity or thermal energy for the project. The amount of renewable energy production is calculated based on the percentage of the annual energy cost that is offset by the renewable energy systems. Option 2 requires the project to use renewable energy systems that are located off the project site and that are owned by the project or have a long-term contract with the project. The amount of renewable energy production is calculated based on the percentage of the annual energy use that is offset by the renewable energy systems.

Therefore, among the given options, only Option D is relevant to the credit requirements, as it implies that the solar photovoltaic system is located on the project site and that the produced electricity is consumed by the project. The other options, such as carbon offsets, daylighting strategies, and passive solar strategies, are not directly related to the credit requirements, although they may have other benefits for the project.

References:

Renewable Energy Production | U.S. Green Building Council

LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4

Solar Photovoltaic Technology Basics | Department of Energy

Photovoltaic system - Wikipedia

This option allows the project team to evaluate the impact of different window-to-wall ratios on the energy performance of the building, and to optimize the design accordingly. A simple box energy model is a preliminary analysis tool that can be used to compare different design alternatives and inform decision making in the early stages of the project12.

References: = [LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide], LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction: Energy and Atmosphere, The impacts of window to wall ratio and window orientation on building energy consumption and CO2 emissions under climate change. Message has links.

This factor is included in the lamp lumen uplight calculation, because it represents the amount of light that is emitted downward by the fixture, which does not contribute to light pollution1. The lamp lumen uplight calculation is used to determine the percentage of total luminaire lumens emitted above horizontal, which must not exceed the maximum allowed values for each lighting zone2.

References: = [LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide], SSc6 step by step instructions - BuildingGreen.

According to the LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, the Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Outdoor Water Use Reduction, Option 2. Reduced Irrigation, requires that a project’s landscape water requirement be reduced by at least 30% from the calculated baseline for the project site’s peak watering month. The baseline is determined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) WaterSense Water Budget Tool, or a local equivalent for projects outside the U.S. The reduction must be achieved through plant species selection and irrigation system efficiency1. References: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Outdoor Water Use Reduction, Option 2. Reduced Irrigation, Requirements1

Revise the documentation and resubmit the form

If a project receives a review comment and technical advice on a prerequisite, it means that the documentation submitted was incomplete, inaccurate, or unclear, and that the project team needs to address the issues raised by the reviewer and provide additional information or clarification. The project team should revise the documentation and resubmit the form as part of the final review to demonstrate compliance with the prerequisite requirements. Abandoning meeting this prerequisite is not an option, as prerequisites are mandatory for LEED certification. Submitting an appeal to Green Business Certification Inc. is only applicable if the project team disagrees with the reviewer’s decision or interpretation, and has additional evidence or arguments to support their claim. Asking the General Contractor to be more aggressive with recycling goals is not relevant to this prerequisite, as it does not address the documentation issue.

References: As per the LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) V4 resources, the Materials and Resources Prerequisite for Construction and Demolition Waste Management Planning requires the project team to develop and implement a construction and demolition waste management plan that identifies at least five materials targeted for diversion from disposal in landfills and incinerators. The project team must also estimate a diversion rate for each material and describe how they will achieve it. The project team must submit this plan as part of the preliminary design review, along with a letter from the owner or project manager confirming that they will implement it during construction. If the reviewer finds any issues with the plan or the letter, they will provide a review comment and technical advice on how to improve it. The project team must then revise the documentation and resubmit it as part of the final design review, along with a narrative describing how they addressed the reviewer’s feedback. For more detailed information, you can refer to the web-based reference guide in the credit library at USGBC’s official website.

Decreasing lighting power is a strategy that can be used to reduce the internal load of a building. Internal load is the amount of heat generated within a building by its occupants, equipment, and lighting1. Reducing lighting power can lower the internal heat gain and thus decrease the cooling demand and energy consumption of the building2. Other strategies to reduce internal load include using energy-efficient appliances, natural ventilation, daylighting, occupancy sensors, and shading devices3. References:

8.1: Internal Loads - Engineering LibreTexts

Chapter 3: Design Loads for Residential Buildings - HUD User

Internal Heat Gain - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics

The current facilities requirements (CFR) and operations and maintenance plan (OMP) are two documents that are required for the Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Fundamental Commissioning and Verification. The CFR is a document that describes the owner’s project requirements, such as the design intent, performance goals, and operational needs of the building. The OMP is a document that provides information and guidance on how to operate and maintain the commissioned systems and equipment. According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the CFR and OMP must include the minimum outside air requirements, which are the minimum rates of outdoor air ventilation that are needed to provide acceptable indoor air quality and thermal comfort for the occupants1. The issue logs, functional performance tests, and installation verification (construction) checklists are not required to be included in the CFR and OMP, but they are part of the commissioning process and documentation.

References:

•LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite: Fundamental Commissioning and Verification, page 2611

•Fundamental commissioning and verification | U.S. Green Building Council2

A pedestrian-oriented paving or turf area with physical site elements that accommodate outdoor social activities is necessary to satisfy the requirement for the outdoor space to be physically accessible when calculating the Sustainable Sites Credit, Open Space. This is because the outdoor space must be designed to encourage regular use by occupants and visitors1. A garden space dedicated to industrial food production for use by local communities may not be accessible to the building occupants and visitors2. A garden space with only one vegetation type and species during the summer for visual interest does not meet the requirement of having two or more types of vegetation or overhead vegetated canopy1. A dark paving area with site elements to encourage parking near wetlands or naturally designed ponds is not considered as pedestrian-oriented hardscape and may have negative impacts on the natural environment3.

References:

•Open Space, p. 1

•NC-v4 SSc3: Open space, p. 2

•LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 72

For Location and Transportation (LT) Credit: High Priority Site, Option 1: Historic District, the project team must confirm that at least 75% of land areas within 1/2 mile (0.80 km) are previously developed (B). This demonstrates that the project site is part of an infill area, supporting LEED’s goal to revitalize and use previously developed urban spaces while protecting undeveloped land. Options like Federal Renewal Community status (C) or brownfield designation (D) apply to different site categories.

This option requires the project team to focus on reducing the water consumption of the school project, because it is located in a basin that depends on the seasonal snowmelt for its water supply1. Installing efficient plumbing fixtures, such as low-flow faucets, toilets, and showerheads, can help save water and reduce the demand on the local water resources2. This option can also help the project achieve the LEED credits for outdoor and indoor water use reduction3.

References: = LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Water-Efficient Plumbing Fixtures, Water Efficiency | U.S. Green Building Council.

According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the project team must conduct a waste stream audit to identify the top five recyclable waste streams generated by the building and its occupants. The audit must cover a representative time period of a minimum of 24 hours, and must account for variations in the type and quantity of waste generated by different building uses and operations. The project team must then provide dedicated areas for the collection and storage of these materials for recycling. The project team must also provide dedicated areas for the collection and storage of batteries, mercury-containing lamps, and electronic waste, or demonstrate that a local program is in place to properly dispose of these materials.

References:

LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Materials and Resources Prerequisite: Storage and Collection of Recyclables, page 5441

LEED v4 Credit Tutorials: Materials & Resources (BD+C/ID+C), Prerequisite: Storage and Collection of Recyclables2

The intent of the Sustainable Sites Prerequisite. Construction Activity Pollution Prevention is to reduce pollution from construction activities by controlling soil erosion, waterway sedimentation and airborne dust generation. The LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction states that "construction activities can have significant negative impacts on the environment, both at the project site and beyond. Erosion and sedimentation can degrade water quality, damage aquatic habitats, and increase flooding risks. Airborne dust can affect air quality, human health, and visibility. Construction vehicles and equipment can generate noise, traffic, and greenhouse gas emissions"1. The project team must implement an erosion and sedimentation control (ESC) plan that conforms to the 2012 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Construction General Permit or local equivalent, whichever is more stringent. The ESC plan must cover all construction activity on the project site, including clearing, grading, excavating, and demolition.

References:

LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Sustainable Sites Prerequisite: Construction Activity Pollution Prevention, page 1151

Construction activity pollution prevention | U.S. Green Building Council

This is the requirement for the Indoor Environmental Quality prerequisite Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control, which applies to all LEED BD+C rating systems. The intent is to prevent or minimize exposure of building occupants, indoor surfaces, and ventilation air distribution systems to environmental tobacco smoke. The no-smoking signage must explicitly state the 25 ft. (8 m) limit and communicate the no-smoking policy to occupants.

References: = [LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide], Indoor Environment Prerequisite: No Smoking within 25 Feet of Building, Non-smoking policy + signage. Message has links.

The Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Interior Lighting, requires the project team to provide individual occupant lighting control for at least 90% of the individual occupant spaces, or at least 50% of the shared multi-occupant spaces. The lighting control must enable occupants to adjust the lighting to suit their individual tasks and preferences, and must have at least three lighting levels, excluding off1. Therefore, a three level (on, 25%, off) lighting control meets the requirements of this credit, while a two level (on, off) lighting control does not. A three level (on, 50%, off) or a three level (on, 75%, off) lighting control may also meet the requirements, depending on the lighting power density and the daylight availability in the space2.

References:

•LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Indoor Environmental Quality Credit: Interior Lighting, page 7071

•Interior lighting | U.S. Green Building Council3

This option requires the project to classify water from toilets as blackwater, not graywater, because it contains human waste and pathogens that pose a health risk1. Graywater is defined as wastewater that contains fewer contaminants than blackwater, such as water from showers, sinks, and washing machines2. Graywater can be reused for non-potable purposes, such as irrigation and toilet flushing, after appropriate treatment3.

References: = LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Greywater Systems, Recycled content.

An intensive vegetated roof is a roof that has a thick layer of soil and plants that provide shade, evapotranspiration, and stormwater management. It can reduce the heat island effect by lowering the surface and air temperature of the roof and the surrounding area. Artificial turf grass does not reduce the heat island effect because it is not a living plant and does not provide cooling benefits. A steep sloped roof with initial SRI of 35 does not meet the minimum requirement of 39 for Option 1 or 32 for Option 2 of the Heat Island Reduction credit. A low sloped roof with initial SRI of 64 exceeds the minimum requirement of 82 for Option 1 or 64 for Option 2, but it is not the best option among the choices because it only reflects solar radiation and does not provide other benefits such as shading, evapotranspiration, and stormwater management. References:

Heat Island Reduction credit in LEED BD+C: New Construction v4.1 - LEED v4.11

SpecTopics: Heat Island Reduction Credit and LEED® V4/V4.12

LEED Principle: Urban Heat Island Mitigation and Roofing3

Adding a concrete walkway will increase the site’s impervious cover, which is the percentage of the site area that does not allow water to infiltrate into the ground1. Impervious cover can affect the site’s stormwater management, heat island effect, and habitat quality. The project team should consider using permeable paving materials, vegetated roofs, or rain gardens to reduce the impervious cover and mitigate its impacts2. The other options are not directly impacted by adding a concrete walkway. Project density calculations are based on the floor area ratio and the number of occupants, not the site features3. Erosion and sediment control plan during construction is required for any site disturbance, regardless of the type of material used4. Air quality as a result of off gassing that occurs as concrete cures is not a significant issue for outdoor applications, and can be minimized by using low-emitting concrete products5.

The scope of analysis in Materials and Resources Credit, Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction, Option 4. Whole-Building Life-Cycle Assessment is a cradle-to-grave assessment. This means that the life cycle assessment (LCA) covers all stages of the building’s life cycle, from the extraction of raw materials (cradle) to the disposal or reuse of the building components at the end of their service life (grave)1. The LCA must include the following life cycle stages: product stage, construction process stage, use stage, and end-of-life stage2. The LCA must also account for the environmental impacts of the building’s structure and enclosure, as well as any other building elements that are permanently attached to and share service systems with the building2. References:

Whole building life cycle assessment through LEED v4

Building life-cycle impact reduction | U.S. Green Building Council

The Sustainable Sites Credit, Light Pollution Reduction aims to minimize the adverse effects of artificial lighting on the night sky, human health, and wildlife1. However, the credit does not apply to lighting that is required for safety, security, or emergency purposes2. According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, lighting for theatrical performances is considered an emergency purpose and is exempt from the credit requirements3. Therefore, the LEED AP should inform the owner that the LED fixture is exempt from Sustainable Sites Credit, Light Pollution Reduction and does not need to be modified or compared to an alternative. Enclosing the performance areas would not reduce light pollution, but rather increase energy consumption and affect the outdoor experience. Calculating the return on investment over the 20-year life of the project is irrelevant to the credit and would not help achieve it.

References:

Light Pollution Reduction

Light Pollution Reduction: Sustainable Site Credit for LEED Existing Building O+M

[LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4], page 581

For the Materials and Resources Credit, Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction, Option 2. Renovation of Abandoned or Blighted Buildings, up to 25% of the building surface area may be excluded from the credit calculation due to deterioration or damage1.

References:

LEED Certification- Requirements for Material & Resource Credit: Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction - Firstgreen Consulting Pvt Ltd

Exemplary performance credits are one of the options to earn innovation points under the LEED v4.1 rating system. They are typically awarded for achieving double the credit requirements or the next incremental percentage threshold of an existing LEED v4.1 prerequisite or credit that allows exemplary performance. For example, to earn an exemplary performance point for the Energy and Atmosphere credit Optimize Energy Performance, the project must demonstrate a percentage improvement in the proposed building performance rating compared to the baseline building performance rating per ASHRAE 90.1-2010 by at least 12 percentage points for new construction, or by at least 16 percentage points for major renovations.

References: = NC-v4.1 INc1: Innovation | LEEDuser, Guide to Exemplary Performance Credits in LEED-NC v4 | LEEDuser

According to the LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, the document that allows a LEED AP to register a project and sign the Certification Agreement is the Owner Confirmation of Agent Authority. This form is used to validate the Certification Agreement when it is signed by someone other than the owner, such as a LEED AP. It provides proof that the owner accepts the conditions in the Certification Agreement and authorizes the LEED AP to act as the owner’s agent for the purpose of LEED project certification1. The other choices are not relevant documents for this purpose. References: LEED Certification Agreement and other legal matters1

An energy meter must be installed for hot water at the main service point for the project to meet the requirements for Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Building-Level Energy Metering. According to the LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, this prerequisite requires that “all energy sources used by the building must be metered or submetered” 1. The hot water from the central utility plant is an energy source used by the building, even if it is not directly paid by the office. Therefore, it must be metered at the point where it enters the building. The other options are incorrect because natural gas is not an energy source used by the building in this case, and the flat fee or the ownership of the energy source do not exempt the project from the metering requirement.References: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Energy and Atmosphere Category, EAp Building-Level Energy Metering, page 569.

To meet the Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) Prerequisite: Minimum Acoustic Performance for classrooms, sound pressure level measurements should be taken under conditions that reflect typical classroom use without occupants, ensuring accuracy in assessing HVAC background noise levels. Furnished, no occupants, HVAC operating at typical level (C) is the correct testing setup, as it accounts for sound absorption by furniture but excludes ambient noise from people. This setup provides a more accurate measure of the background noise levels produced by HVAC systems, ensuring compliance with acoustic performance requirements for optimal learning environments.

To evaluate the Location and Transportation (LT) Credit: Reduced Parking Footprint, the project team should be aware of the minimum number of parking spaces required by the zoning code (D). This credit aims to reduce the environmental impact of parking by minimizing the number of spaces provided, encouraging alternative transportation methods. Knowledge of local parking minimums helps the team ensure compliance with LEED while avoiding excess parking, which can contribute to urban sprawl and the heat island effect. Design guidelines and building code standards are not directly relevant to this credit.

According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the Thermal Comfort credit requires providing individual comfort controls for at least 50% of individual occupant spaces, and group controls for 100% of shared multioccupant spaces1. Individual comfort controls allow occupants to adjust one or more of the following: air temperature, air speed, radiant temperature, or humidity. Group controls are shared by two or more occupants within a thermal zone. The credit aims to promote occupants’ productivity, comfort, and well-being by providing quality thermal comfort. References: EQ Credit Thermal Comfort, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction123

Private lavatory faucets are eligible for a WaterSense label, provided they meet EPA’s specifications for water efficiency and performance, and are backed by independent, third-party certification. Tankless toilets, waterless urinals, and public lavatory faucets are not eligible for a WaterSense label because they are not included in the product categories that WaterSense covers. WaterSense currently labels products in the following categories: tank-type toilets, water-using urinals, private lavatory faucets, showerheads, irrigation controllers, spray sprinkler bodies, and pre-rinse spray valves. References:

WaterSense Products | US EPA1

The WaterSense Label | US EPA2

Water Sense Labeling | LEEDuser3

Labeled Faucet Questions | WaterSense | US EPA4

What is the WaterSense Label and How Does it Apply?5

According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction1, the Location and Transportation Credit, Bicycle Facilities, requires the project to provide short-term and long-term bicycle storage and a functional entry or bicycle storage within 200 yards of a bicycle network. The bicycle network is defined as any one of the following:

Off-street bicycle paths or on-street bicycle lanes that are physically marked and separated from motor traffic

Streets designed for a target speed of 25 mph (40 km/h) or less, with traffic calming features such as curb extensions, speed humps, raised crossings, narrowed traffic lanes, median islands, tight corner radii, roundabouts, or landscaping

Streets with a legal speed limit of 25 mph (40 km/h) or less that connect to a larger bicycle network

Therefore, among the given options, only slow speed roadways can define a bicycle network, as they can provide a safer and more comfortable environment for cyclists. One-way streets, bike share, and traffic lights are not sufficient to define a bicycle network, as they do not necessarily indicate the presence of bicycle paths, lanes, or low-speed streets.

References:

LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4

Bicycle facilities | U.S. Green Building Council

CI-v4.1 LTc4: Bicycle facilities | LEEDuser

Understanding bikeability: a methodology to assess urban networks

Bicycle Network | Making bike riding easier for everyone

The renewable energy option is economically feasible if the present value of the utility cost savings over the lifetime of the system is greater than or equal to the present value of the higher initial cost of the system. This means that the system will pay for itself and generate net savings in the long run. The utility cost savings depend on the amount of energy produced by the solar thermal panel, the price of natural gas, and the inflation rate. The higher initial cost depends on the size, type, and installation of the solar thermal panel.

References:

Solar Thermal: Complete Guide to the Pros, Cons and Costs

Renewable Energy vs Natural Gas – How The Costs Stack Up

Is Solar Cheaper Than Natural Gas? - PowerSouth Energy Cooperative

LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4