What are LEED Certified Residential Homes?

Source: U.S. Green Building Council

LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. A third-party system has proved that LEED-certified homes use less energy and materials while also being healthier for the families who live in them. What do you mean? These constructions are designed to provide clean indoor air as well as an abundance of natural light. First and foremost, LEED-certified homes are well-built. They are designed to withstand extreme weather. They also use non-toxic construction materials that boost interior fresh air while reducing toxicity and pollution exposure. These houses also include water and energy-saving measures. LEED-certified homes use 20 to 30% less energy on average, saving you money on electricity bills. With the correct design, these homes may be built at the same cost as non-green homes, and many governments provide significant tax advantages. If you want to go LEED, be sure you choose a contractor that is familiar with the criteria. Obtaining certification is a tough process that may be daunting for first-time buyers.

LEED helps create living spaces where individuals can thrive. LEED-certified homes are designed to deliver clean air and natural light indoors and safe building materials to protect the comfort and health of our customers. They help us reduce our energy and water consumption, reduce our monthly utility expenditures, and offer other financial advantages. Homeowners affect their community positively by using the LEED principles.

LEED homes are also being designed, constructed, and managed in terrible settings and are constructed with proactive design plans for the likely repercussions of disastrous weather conditions.

• Health: LEED-certified dwellings are designed to maximize the air within while reducing exposure and improvement of airborne contaminants.
• Savings: LEED-certified dwellings utilize less energy and water, and the cost of utilities is therefore less. Certified homes utilize on average 20 to 30% less energy than non-green homes; some households save up to 60%.
• Value: LEED homes with proper planning may be constructed at the same price as non-green structures. LEED-certified households may qualify for insurance, tax credits, and other advantages for the decreased homeowner. Moreover, certified greenhouses are selling at various non-green properties faster and for more money than comparable.

Accountability makes a difference in the development of better homes. LEED certification ensures project teams deliver on design plans and goals through a properly managed, independent, third-party verification method, therefore confirming the integrity of green building commitments. Third-party validation assures that each project conserves energy, water, and other resources, reducing the overall environmental effect. There will be no detours.

LEED residential projects certification can be applied to all types of residential projects:

• Multifamily
• Multifamily Core and Shell
• Single Family Homes

Pricing for registration & certification:

• Single family projects from $150 for registration and from $225 for the certification.
• Multifamily projects from $900 for registration and from $$0.035 per sq ft for the certification.

To learn more about the USGBC’s Green Home Guide on making your home healthier and more sustainable. visit: greenhomeguide.com