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

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 plantspecies selection and irrigation system efficiency1.References: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Outdoor Water Use Reduction, Option 2.Reduced Irrigation, Requirements1

According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Option 1 of the Site Development - Protect or Restore Habitat credit requires restoring 25% of the site area (including the building footprint) with native or adapted vegetation1.To achieve exemplary performance, the project must double the credit requirements and restore 50% of the site area2. In this case, the site area is 100,000 ft2 (9 290 m2), so the project must restore 50,000 ft2 (4 645 m2) with vegetation. The project already has 35,000 ft2 (3 250 m2) of native vegetated open space, so it needs to add another 15,000 ft2 (1 395 m2) of vegetation. Since the on-grade surface is fully occupied by the building footprint and the asphalt parking, the only option is to incorporate a vegetated roof.Therefore, the design team will have to incorporate a native and/or adapted vegetated roof with a minimum area of 15,000 ft2 (1 395 m2).References: SS Credit Site Development - Protect or Restore Habitat, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction13

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

Install an on-site photovoltaic array

Installing an on-site photovoltaic array is a direct method to produce renewable energy on the project site, which can be used to achieve points under the Energy Atmosphere Credit for Renewable Energy Production. Additionally, it contributes to optimizing energy performance by generating clean electricity on-site and reducing the need for energy from non-renewable sources.

References: As per the LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) V4 resources, the installation of on-site renewable energy systems like photovoltaic arrays is encouraged to reduce environmental impacts and improve a building’s energy performance. This aligns with the goals of both the Renewable Energy Production and Optimize Energy Performance credits under the LEED rating system. For more detailed information, you can refer to the web-based reference guide in the credit library at USGBC’s official website.

This option requires the project to classify wood derived fuel as a recycled material that contributes towards the credit, because it is a waste material that is converted into a useful energy source1. Wood derived fuel can be used for heating, electricity generation, or co-firing with other fuels2. According to the LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, recycled materials are those that have been reprocessed or remanufactured from recovered materials3.

References: = LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Wood Derived Fuels - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics, Wood-Derived Fuels | Energy and the Environment | US EPA.

Temporary wood products cannot be included in the calculations for the Materials and Resources Credit, Building Disclosure and Optimization - Sourcing of Raw Materials, Option 2. Leadership Extraction Practices. This is because the credit only applies to permanently installed building products, not to products purchased for temporary use on the project1. The other options are false. If any temporary wood materials are included in the calculation, they must be excluded from the total value of permanently installed building products1. Non-certified wood materials do not contribute to other credits, unless they meet other criteria such as recycled content or regional materials2. FSC-certified wood materials purchased for more than one project cannot be applied to other projects seeking LEED certification, unless they are reused or salvaged materials3.

References:

•Building product disclosure and optimization - sourcing of raw materials, p. 2

•LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 323

•NC-v4 MRc3: Building product disclosure and optimization - sourcing of raw materials, p. 3

The Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Optimize Energy Performance, is the most suitable for achieving the organization’s dual goals.This credit encourages the use of energy-efficient strategies to reduce the environmental and economic harms associated with excessive energy use, thereby promoting occupants’ health and minimizing energy costs.References: LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) V4 resources1

The most likely group of documents to support both Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Thermal Comfort, and Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Interior Lighting, Option 1. Lighting Control is C, lighting plans, surveys of occupants, sequence of operations.

Lighting plans show the layout and type of lighting fixtures, as well as the lighting controls, such as dimmers, timers, occupancy sensors, or daylight sensors. Surveys of occupants provide feedback on the satisfaction and comfort level of the building users regarding the thermal and lighting conditions. Sequence of operations describes how the mechanical and lighting systems operate and respond to different scenarios, such as occupancy, temperature, or daylight levels.

These documents can demonstrate that the project meets the requirements for both credits, which are:

• For Thermal Comfort, the project must design the HVAC systems and the building envelope to meet the requirements of ASHRAE Standard 55-2010, Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy, or a local equivalent, and provide individual thermal comfort controls for at least 50% of the individual occupant spaces, and group thermal comfort controls for all shared multi-occupant spaces1.
• For Interior Lighting, Option 1.Lighting Control, the project must provide individual lighting controls that enable adjustments to suit individual task needs for at least 90% of the individual occupant spaces, and provide lighting system controls for all shared multi-occupant spaces that allow occupants to adjust the lighting to meet group needs and preferences2.

The other groups of documents are less likely to support both credits, because:

• Architectural floor plans, mechanical plans, and lamp specifications do not show the lighting controls or the occupant feedback.
• Photometric plans, mechanical schedules, and lamp specifications do not show the thermal comfort design or the occupant feedback.
• Surveys of occupants, photometric plans, and mechanical schedules do not show the lighting controls or the thermal comfort design.

References: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Thermal Comfort, Requirements1; LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Interior Lighting, Option 1.Lighting Control, Requirements2

This alternative analysis can help the team check the impact of reducing the amount of concrete used in the building, which can affect several impact categories, such as global warming potential (GWP), acidification, and eutrophication1. Concrete is a material with high embodied energy and carbon emissions, and reducing its use can lower the environmental impact of the building2. Optimizing the slab depth can also improve the thermal performance and daylighting of the building, which can reduce the operational energy use and demand3.

References: = LCA in LEED - Whole-building Life Cycle Assessment, Concrete and Embodied Carbon – Can we reduce carbon emissions and still use concrete?, Optimizing Slab Thickness for Energy Performance.

The commissioning (Cx) agent must have completed the commissioning process activities for a minimum of two similar projects in order to meet the minimum qualifications for Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Fundamental Commissioning and Verification. This is stated in the LEED v4 Building Design + Construction Guide, under the section “Energy and Atmosphere Credits Overview”. The guide also provides examples of similar projects that can be used as references for commissioning.

References: [LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide], Fundamental commissioning and verification - U.S. Green Building Council, EA Energy & Atmosphere Overview - Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Fundamental Commissioning and Verification – Above Green, EAp1: Fundamental Commissioning and Verification – Above Green, LEED credit library | U.S. Green Building Council

These design elements are examples of low-impact development (LID) and green infrastructure (GI) practices that can reduce runoff volume and improve water quality by replicating the natural hydrology and water balance of the site1. Cisterns can collect and store rainwater for reuse or infiltration, porous pavement can allow water to seep into the ground, swales can convey and filter stormwater runoff, and vegetated roofs can reduce runoff and evapotranspiration2.

References: = LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Achieving SSc Rainwater Management in LEED v4.1.

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

LEED Building Design and Construction: Healthcare has additional appliance and process water requirements in Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Indoor Water Use Reduction

LEED Building Design and Construction: New Construction and LEED Building Design and Construction: Healthcare have the same Water Efficiency credits, except for the Cooling Tower Water Use credit, which is only applicable to the former. However, the Indoor Water Use Reduction prerequisite differs between the two rating systems, as the Healthcare version requires additional calculations for appliance and process water use, such as medical equipment, laundry, and kitchen equipment.

References:

• Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 – Pages 256-3171
• LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide - U.S.Green Building Council2

the local equivalent standard is more stringent than ASTM E1527-05

According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, a Phase I ESA is required for all projects, except for those located on previously developed land that has not been used for industrial, commercial, or agricultural purposes. The Phase I ESA must follow the ASTM E1527-05 standard or a local equivalent. However, if the local equivalent is more stringent than the ASTM standard, then the projectmust comply with the local equivalent. Therefore, if the new building project is located in a jurisdiction that has a more rigorous standard for Phase I ESA than ASTM E1527-05, then it must complete a new Phase I ESA, regardless of the previous ESA done for the certified facility.

References:

• Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 – Pages 81-821
• LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide - U.S.Green Building Council2

According to the LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, the Location and Transportation Credit, Bicycle Facilities has two options: Option 1. Bicycle Network and Storage and Option 2. Reduced Parking Footprint. Option 1 requires the project to provide short-term bicycle storage for at least 2.5% of all peak visitors, and long-term bicycle storage for at least 5% of all regular building occupants. Short-term bicycle storage must be within 100 ft (30 m) walking distance of any main entrance, and long-term bicycle storage must be within 300 ft (90 m) walking or bicycling distance of any functional entry. Option 2 requires the project to provide short-term bicycle storage for at least 2.5% of all peak visitors, and long-term bicycle storage for at least 5% of all regular building occupants, and also reduce the total parking capacity by at least 20% from the base ratios.Both options can earn one point under this credit1.

If a commercial building is considered to have 100 peak visitors in a day, the minimum number of short-term bicycle storage spaces that must be provided to earn one point under Option 1 or Option 2 is 2.5% of 100, which is 2.5, rounded up to 3. However, the project must also provide long-term bicycle storage for at least 5% of all regular building occupants, which is not given in the question.Therefore, the correct answer is C, five, which is the minimum number of short-term bicycle storage spaces that must be provided to earn one point under Option 1 or Option 2, regardless of the number of regular building occupants.References: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Location and Transportation Credit, Bicycle Facilities, Requirements1

For Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Advanced Energy Metering, the minimum amount of time that the metering system should store data is36 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

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

One of the requirements for attempting a pilot credit is to complete a feedback survey after submitting the project for review. The LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction states that "the project team must complete a feedback survey for each pilot credit attempted. The survey link is provided in the pilot credit language. The survey must be completed after the project has been submitted for review and before the project receives a final rating"1. The feedback survey is an important tool for USGBC to evaluate the effectiveness and applicability of the pilot credit, and to make improvements or modifications based on the project team’s experience.

References:

•LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Innovation Credit: Pilot, page 7571

•Pilot credits and pilot alternative compliance paths (ACPs)2

The surrounding residential density is calculated by dividing the total number of dwelling units by the total residential land area. In this case, it would be 780 dwelling units divided by 60% of 130 acres, which equals approximately 13 dwelling units per acre (or 32 dwelling units per hectare).

The nonresidential density, or Floor Area Ratio (FAR), is calculated by dividing the total nonresidential building floor area by the total nonresidential land area. In this case, it would be 1,600,000 ft² divided by 40% of 130 acres, which equals a FAR of approximately 0.47.

These calculations are used when attempting to achieve the Location and Transportation Credit, Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses, under the LEED AP BD+C V4 rating system.

References:

• [LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide]

Conducting a site analysis is a method to assess the regional context of a building’s design for sustainability. A site analysis involves collecting and evaluating information about the site’s location, climate, ecology, history, culture, infrastructure, regulations, and stakeholders. This can help identify the opportunities and constraints for the project, as well as the potential impacts and benefits for the environment and the community.A site analysis can inform the design decisions regarding site selection, site development, water management, energy efficiency, material selection,indoor environmental quality, and innovation12.References: LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Integrative Process, page 281;Site Analysis for Construction

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

Tidal-based electrical production is eligible for the Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Renewable Energy Production. This credit rewards projects that use renewable energy systems to offset building energy cost.According to the LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, renewable energy systems are defined as “those that use resources that are naturally replenished within a 100-year or shorter cycle and that are greenhouse gas neutral on an annual basis”1. Tidal-based electrical production meets this definition, as it uses the kinetic energy of the tides to generate electricity without emitting greenhouse gases. The other options are not eligible for this credit, as ground-source heat pumps are not considered renewable energy systems, municipal solid waste combustion is not greenhouse gas neutral, and passive solar and daylighting strategies do not offset building energy cost.References: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Energy and Atmosphere Category, EAc Renewable Energy Production, page 572.

Energy efficiency goals and training requirements are required to be present in the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) when applying the Integrative Process to a Building Design and Construction project.According to the LEED v4 BD+C ReferenceGuide, the OPR is a document that details the ideas, concepts, and criteria that are determined by the owner to be important to the success of the project1.The OPR must include, among other things, the following information related to energy efficiency1:

• The owner’s energy performance goals and expectations
• The owner’s requirements for energy metering and monitoring
• The owner’s requirements for energy modeling and analysis
• The owner’s requirements for commissioning and verification
• The owner’s requirements for training and documentation

The other options are not required to be present in the OPR, as they are either related to other aspects of the project, such as codes and standards, interior finishes, or project team members, or they are not relevant to the Integrative Process, which focuses on early analysis of energy, water, and site systems2.References: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Integrative Process Category, IPc Integrative Process, page 632.

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

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.

A pilot credit identified by the LEED AP that is relevant to the project would be documented in LEED Online as an Innovation Credit.Pilot credits are proposed credits that are used to test and evaluate a strategy before they can be considered for incorporation into the LEED consensus process for approval by USGBC membership1.All other LEED v4 and v4.1 projects may register for pilot credits and pilot ACPs in LEED Online1.

References:Pilot credits and pilot alternative compliance paths (ACPs)

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.

Data centers are buildings that house computer systems and associated components, such as servers, storage devices, and network equipment. They typically operate 24/7 and do not have regular commuting patterns of occupants. Therefore, they can exclude weekend transit service from the transit service level calculations for the Location and Transportation Credit, Access to Quality Transit12. This credit aims to encourage development in locations that are served by high-quality transit, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions, transportation costs, and automobile dependence.

References: = LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, NC-v4.1 LTc5: Access to quality transit | LEEDuser

This credit can be earned if the VOC budget method is applied for VOC content. The VOC budget method allows the use of some products that exceed the VOC content limit, as long as the total VOC content of all products within a category does not exceed the total allowable VOC content for that category1. The adhesive is a product within the wet-applied and aerosol adhesives category, which has a VOC content limit of 70 g/L1. The contractor must calculate the VOC budget for this category and ensure that it does not exceed the limit. The other options are not valid ways to earn this credit. The adhesive must be included in the LEED documentation, as all products used in the project must be accounted for1. The credit requires that 100% of the adhesives used comply with the VOC content limit and emissions requirements, not 75% or 95%1.

References:

•Low-emitting materials, p. 2

The best design approach for the office building is D. Recover waste energy through exhaust air energy recovery systems. This is because:

• Installing glazing with a higher solar heat gain factor would increase the cooling load and energy consumption of the building, especially in an extremely humid climate where heat gain is high1.
• Installing photovoltaic panels on the sides of the building would generate electricity from solar radiation, but it would not reduce the cooling load or energy consumption of the building, unless the electricity is used to power a heat pump or other cooling device2.
• Increasing outdoor air intake quantities during summer months would provide more fresh air to dilute the indoor pollutants and improve the indoor air quality, but it would not reduce the cooling load or energy consumption of the building, unless it is combined with a ventilation system that recovers waste energy from the exhaust air stream34.

An exhaust air energy recovery system (ERV) is a type of mechanical ventilation that uses a heat exchanger to transfer heat between two streams of air: one that enters the building and one that exits. The ERV pre-cools and dehumidifies the incoming ventilation air bysending the rejected heat into the exhaust airstream to cool the condenser coil at a lower temperature. This reduces both the cooling load and energy consumption of the building, as well as improving its indoor humidity levels34. An ERV can also provide some fresh outdoor air to meet ASHRAE Standard 62 ventilation rates5.

Therefore, an ERV is a more efficient and effective design approach than glazing, photovoltaic panels, or increased outdoor air intake quantities for reducing the annual energy cost for operating an office building in an extremely humid climate and shaded by very large adjacent buildings on all four sides.

References: 1: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide - U.S. Green Building Council 2: LEED AP BD+C Exam | U.S. Green Building Council 3: Energy Recovery Systems - Nortek Air Solutions 4: Energy Recovery Ventilators - Greenheck 5: Mechanical Ventilation Types: Exhaust, Supply, Balanced & Energy Recovery

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

This option requires the project team to exclude public right-of-way areas, such as streets, sidewalks, and alleys, from the calculations of the surrounding existing density1. This option ensures that the density is measured based on the buildable land area, which is the area available for development or construction2.

References: = [LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide], Surrounding density and diverse uses.

The outdoor airflow rate is the amount of outdoor air that is supplied to the building by the ventilation system to dilute indoor air pollutants and provide fresh air for the occupants. The outdoor airflow rate depends on the ventilation standard that the project follows, which can be either ASHRAE 62.1-2010 or CEN Standard EN 15251-20071. Both standards specify the minimum outdoor airflow rate per person and per unit area for different occupancy types and zones. Therefore, increasing the number of occupants will require an increase in the outdoor airflow rate to maintain the minimum ventilation level. The other variables, such as supply air velocity, system ventilation efficiency, and supply air temperature set point, do not directly affect the outdoor airflow rate, although they may influence the energy consumption and thermal comfort of the ventilation system.

References:

• LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4
• Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance
• Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality - ASHRAE
• Indoor environmental input parameters for design and assessment of … - CEN

Every location in the U.S. identifies four regional credits that are of particular importance for that region. These credits are selected by the USGBC regional councils and chapters based on the environmental, social, and public health issues that are relevant for their areas. A project can earn up to four bonus points by achieving these regional credits.

References:

•LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, page 6081

•Regional Priority (RP) credits – U.S. Green Building Council2

Massing and orientation are important factors that affect the energy performance of a building. Massing refers to the shape and size of the building, and orientation refers to the direction that the building faces. By rotating the building 90 degrees, the project team can evaluate how the change in orientation affects the energy loads of the building, such as heating, cooling, and lighting. For example, a building that faces south may receive more solar heat gain and daylight than a building that faces north, which may reduce the need for artificial lighting and heating, but increase the need for cooling and shading. The project team can use the results of the analysis to optimize the massing and orientation of the building to achieve the best energy performance.

References:

• LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Integrative Process Credit: Integrative Process, page 811
• Integrative Process Worksheet2

Large commercial buildings are most often dominated by internal loads, which are the heat gains or losses from people, equipment, lighting, and other sources inside the building. Internal loads can affect the heating and cooling loads and the energy consumption of the building. Therefore, reducing internal loads can improve the building’s energy efficiency and performance. References:

• LEED AP BD+C V4 Reference Guide, Chapter 5: Energy and Atmosphere, page 5-51
• ENERGY STAR Building Upgrade Manual, Chapter 6: Lighting, page 6-22
• Michaels Energy, Shell vs. Load Dominated Buildings

The distance between the project site and the manufacturing location is determined by the straight line distance. This is because the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction states that the distance should be measured as the crow flies1. The straight line distance is the shortest distance between two points on a plane, regardless of the mode of transportation or the road conditions. The image that you sent shows the straight line distance between the project site and the manufacturing location as the line segment AB.

References:

• LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Materials and Resources Credit: Building Product Disclosure and Optimization - Sourcing of Raw Materials, page 551

To achieve the Sustainable Sites Credit, Light Pollution Reduction, Option 1. BUG Rating Method, projects must demonstrate that all luminaires meet acceptable fixture ratings for the project’s Model Lighting Ordnance (MLO) lighting zone.The MLO lighting zone is determined by the site-specific characteristics and the definitions provided in the IES/IDA MLO User Guide1.The fixture ratings are based on the backlight-uplight-glare (BUG) system, which measures the amount of light emitted in different directions by a luminaire, as defined in IES TM-15-11, Addendum A2.The maximum allowable ratings for each lighting zone are given in Table 1 of the credit language3.References:IES/IDA MLO User Guide;IES TM-15-11, Addendum A;Light pollution reduction

The average flush rate for a dual flush toilet is calculated by weighting the high and low flush rates according to the frequency of use.According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction1, the frequency of use for male and female occupants is assumed to be as follows:

• Male full flush: 1 time per day
• Female full flush: 1 time per day
• Male low flush: 2 times per day
• Female low flush: 2 times per day

Therefore, the average flush rate for a dual flush toilet with a high flush rate of 1.6 gpf (6 lpf) and a low flush rate of 1.05 gpf (4 lpf) is:

6(1×1.6)+(1×1.6)+(2×1.05)+(2×1.05)​=1.19 gpf(4.5 lpf)

References:

• LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4
• Dual toilet flush rate average | LEEDuser
• Dual Flush vs Single Flush Toilet: The Complete Comparison Guide
• What Is a Dual Flush Toilet? - The Spruce

The Location and Transportation Credit, Green Vehicles aims to reduce transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions by promoting the use of low-emitting, fuel-efficient, and alternative-fuel vehicles1. One of the requirements for this credit is to provide preferred parking for green vehicles for 5% of the total vehicle parking capacity of the project1. Preferred parking is defined as parking that is clearly marked and located in the most convenient spaces available to the driver or nearest to the main entrance of the project2. In addition to providing preferred parking, the project may also offer one or more incentives to encourage the use of green vehicles, such as a discounted parking rate, free parking passes, or rebates for parking fees3. The question asks what incentive may be provided to meet the requirements and highlight the project sustainable vehicle strategy. The correct answer is C. A permanent discounted parking rate of at least 20% for all green vehicles, because this incentive meets the minimum threshold of 20% discount suggested by the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction3, and it also demonstrates the project’s commitment to supporting green vehicles in the long term. The other options are either not sufficient or not relevant for this credit. Option A. Three years of free parking for green vehicles is not sufficient because it is not permanent and may not be attractive enough for drivers to switch to green vehicles. Option B. Preferred parking decals for 5% of occupants utilizing carpool vehicles is not relevant because it does not address green vehicles, but rather carpool vehicles, which are covered by a different credit (Location and Transportation Credit, Reduced Parking Footprint)4. Option D. An annual maintenance voucher for at least 5% of occupants driving green vehicles is not sufficient because it is not directly related to parking and may not be a significant incentive for drivers.

References:

• Green Vehicles
• Green Vehicles - Canada Green Building Council
• [LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4], page 544
• Reduced Parking Footprint

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

A condenser water system with a cooling tower and condenser water pumps is classified as a system composed of discrete pieces of equipment that can be metered together for the purposes of Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Advanced Energy Metering. This is because the condenser water system is a single energy end use that serves a specific function and can be isolated from other systems1. HVAC air system, electrical lighting system, and water flow system are not considered as single energy end uses, but rather as multiple energy end uses that serve different functions and cannot be easily isolated2.

References:

•LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 415

•Advanced Energy Metering, p. 2

According to the LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, lead, mercury, copper and cadmium are examples of persistent bioaccumulative toxins (PBTs) that should be limited in building products. PBTs are substances that remain in the environment for long periods of time, accumulate in living organisms, and pose health risks to humans and wildlife. One of the prerequisites for the Materials and Resources Credit, Building Product Disclosure and Optimization - Material Ingredients, is to reduce the use of products that contain PBTs above certain thresholds1. References: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Materials and Resources Credit, Building Product Disclosure and Optimization - Material Ingredients, Option 3: Product Manufacturer Supply Chain Optimization1

The Materials and Resources Credit, Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction, rewards projects that reuse existing building structures and envelopes, or salvage materials from off-site or on-site sources. According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the project team must calculate the percentage of building being reused by dividing the area of the existing building structure and envelope that is reused by the total area of the completed building structure and envelope1. However, the project team must exclude from the calculation any hazardous materials that are remediated as a part of the project, such as asbestos, lead, mold, or PCBs1. Therefore, the asbestos containing materials found on the perimeter walls will be excluded from the calculation, regardless of the volume.

References:

•LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Materials and Resources Credit: Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction, page 5451

•Building life-cycle impact reduction | U.S. Green Building Council2

The Integrative Process credit, Integrative Process, requires the project team to conduct a preliminary analysis of the energy and water related systems during the pre-design phase, and use the results to inform the design and construction of the project. The analysis must include at least two potential strategies for each of the following areas: site conditions, massing and orientation, basic envelope attributes, lighting levels, thermal comfort ranges, plug and process load needs, programmatic and operational parameters, outdoor water use, and indoor water use. The project team must also document how the analysis informed the owner’s project requirements, basis of design, and design documents.

References:

• LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Integrative Process Credit: Integrative Process, page 811
• Integrative Process Worksheet2

The minimum scope of analysis for a product-specific declaration is cradle-to-gate, which means from raw material extraction to the factory gate. This option requires the use of at least 20 different permanently installed products sourced from at least five different manufacturers that have product-specific declarations.

References:

•LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, page 5441

•LEED v4.1 BD+C MRc2 Building Product Disclosure and Optimization (BDPO) EPD credit2

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

The metal base, 20% of product by weight, which do not contain heavy metals and is not plated with hexavalent chromium, contributes toward Materials and Resources Credit, Furniture and Medical Furnishings. This is because it meets the criteria of Option 1: Minimal Chemical Content, which requires that all components that constitute at least 5%, by weight, of a furniture or medical furnishing assembly must contain less than 100 ppm of at least four of the five chemical groups listed in the option. The other portions of the product either do not meet the 5% weight threshold (wheels), or contain chemicals that are restricted by Option 1 (fabric, armrests).References: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Materials and Resources Category, MRc Furniture and Medical Furnishings, Option 1. Minimal Chemical Content, page 711.

The Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) is the document that should be used to record the project goals to be used throughout the design of the project. The OPR is a written document that details the ideas, concepts, and criteria that are determined by the owner to be important to the success of the project1. The OPR is developed during the pre-design phase and is used as a basis for the design team to prepare the Basis of Design (BOD), which describes how the design of the building systems meets the OPR2. The OPR is also used to evaluate the design, construction, and commissioning of the project to ensure that the owner’s expectations are met3.

References:

•LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 63

•LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 64

•SECTION 018114 - SUSTAINABLE DESIGN REQUIREMENTS - LEED v4 BD+C, p. 5

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 ora 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

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 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 resources1

A rainwater harvesting system on site could be recognized in the Sustainable Sites Credit, Rainwater Management and the Water Efficiency Credit, Indoor Water Use Reduction. The Sustainable Sites Credit, Rainwater Management rewards projects that reduce runoff volume and improve water quality by replicating the natural hydrology and water balance of the site1. A rainwater harvesting system can help achieve this by capturing and reusing rainwater on site2. The Water Efficiency Credit, Indoor Water Use Reduction rewards projects that reduce indoor water consumption by installing water-efficient fixtures and fittings3. A rainwater harvesting system can help achieve this by providing an alternative source of water for non-potable uses such as toilet flushing and irrigation4.

The other options are not correct. The Water Efficiency Credit, Water Metering does not recognize rainwater harvesting systems, but rather requires projects to install permanent water meters that measure the total potable water use for the building and grounds. The Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Outdoor Water Use Reduction does not recognize rainwater harvesting systems, but rather requires projects to reduce outdoor water consumption by using plant species that are native or adapted to the region and by using irrigation systems that are efficient and properly controlled. The Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Indoor Water Use Reduction does not recognize rainwater harvesting systems, but rather requires projects to reduce indoor water consumption by 20% from the baseline by installing water-efficient fixtures and fittings.

References:

•Rainwater Management, p. 1

•NC-v4 SSc4: Rainwater management, p. 2

•Indoor water use reduction, p. 1

•NC-v4 WEc3: Indoor water use reduction, p. 3

•[Water metering], p. 1

•[Outdoor water use reduction], p. 1

•[Indoor water use reduction], p. 2

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

Plug-in task lighting is considered as furniture and is not included in the installed lighting power calculations for Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Minimum Energy Performance. It is also not required to comply with the lighting control requirements of ASHRAE 90.1-2010. However, it can be used to satisfy the individual control requirement of Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Interior Lighting, Option 1.References:

• LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p.361
• LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p.6012
• ASHRAE 90.1-2010, Section 9.1.13

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

 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

The Basis of Design (BOD) is the document that contains the design team’s interpretation of the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The BOD describes the proposed systems and how they will meet the OPR, as well as the assumptions and criteria used forthe design.The BOD is a key document for the Integrative Process credit and the Enhanced Commissioning credit in LEED BD+C12.References: LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Integrative Process, page 301; LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Enhanced Commissioning, page 681

New Construction is the appropriate rating system for a new mixed-use building with 300,000 ft2 (27 871 m2) of residential units, 150,000 ft2 (13 935 m2) hotel and 50,000 ft2 (4 645 m2) of retail space.According to the LEED rating system selection guidance1,the New Construction rating system applies to buildings that are being newly constructed or going through a major renovation, and that include any of the following use types: office, retail, hospitality, education, residential, warehouse and distribution centers, or data centers2.The New Construction rating system can also be used for mixed-use buildings that have more than one use type3. Since the project involves new construction of a mixed-use building with residential, hospitality, and retail uses, the New Construction rating system is the most suitable option. The other rating systems are not applicable because they are either specific to one use type (Retail and Hospitality) or to buildings that are not complete at the time of certification (Core and Shell Development).References:

• LEED rating system selection guidance | U.S. Green Building Council
• LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide - U.S. Green Building Council
• LEED v4 Rating Systems | USGBC-LI

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”

According to the LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, the Location and Transportation Credit, Access to Quality Transit has two options: Option 1. Transit-Served Location and Option 2. Transit Service Quality. Option 1 can earn 1 to 4 points depending on the percentage of functional entries within walking distance of transit stops or stations. Option 2 can earn 1 point if the project meets the minimum weekday and weekend headways for bus, streetcar, or informal transit stops, or rail stations or ferry terminals.The maximum number of points a project can achieve under this credit is 4 points by meeting both options1.References: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Location and Transportation Credit, Access to Quality Transit, Requirements1

Natural daylighting can reduce the electricity use for artificial lighting, which is one of the major components of operational energy cost for buildings. By having the lights off or dimmed when sufficient daylight is available, the project can save energy and money. The other options are not necessarily true or relevant for natural daylighting. Heat gain and passive solar heating depend on the orientation, shading, and insulation of the windows, not just the amount of daylight.Reduction in lighting fixture use may reduce re-lamping, but that is not a significant factor in operational energy cost compared to electricity use.References: EA Credit Optimize Energy Performance, EQ Credit Daylight, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction123

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

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

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 teammust 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