When is LEED certification required and how is it assessed?

A LEED certification is an optional rating that certain high performing buildings can request in order to demonstrate their efforts to create healthy, liveable and sustainable spaces. LEED is not a requirement for any council however adds a cost benefit to projects with the rating demonstrating the building’s commitment to sustainable and renewable living.

There are many benefits of having a LEED rating such as being much more competitive, with sustainability leading to market differentiation and financial performance. Having happier employees and occupants in the building, and subsequently attracting desirable tenants wanting to live in and with the benefits of a green building, also having a financial benefit with lease-up rates ranging from average, to 20% above average for green buildings. Other financial benefits include lower operational costs, saving energy and resources making a more cost effective building during construction and operation with more inviting spaces encouraging activity and promoting productivity. LEED assessment is controlled by the USGBC, through which assessors can be accredited to undertake LEED ratings. LEED is assessed by rating how the building complies with certain sustainability goals that the USGBC has outlined as stated above.

LEED FAQ:

What is LEED?
LEED Requirements and costs