LEED-AP-Homes LEED AP Homes (Residential) Exam Questions and Answers

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theEnergy and Atmosphere (EA) Credit: Efficient Hot Water Distribution System, which aims to reduce energy and water waste in hot water delivery.Option 1: Length of Pipingfocuses on minimizing the length of hot water piping to reduce heat loss and delivery time.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

EA Credit: Efficient Hot Water Distribution System, Option 1. Length of Piping (1–2 points)

Design and install the hot water distribution system to meet one of the following requirements:

Maximum branch line length: The length of any branch line from the water heater or hot water source to any fixture must not exceed 20 feet (6 meters) for 1 point, or 10 feet (3 meters) for 2 points.This reduces the volume of water that must be purged before hot water reaches the fixture, saving energy and water.Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Energy and Atmosphere Credit: Efficient Hot Water Distribution System, p. 132.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system maintains this requirement:

EA Credit: Efficient Hot Water Distribution

Option 1: Limit the length of branch lines from the water heater to fixtures to 20 feet (6 meters) for 1 point or 10 feet (3 meters) for 2 points.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

Limiting branch line length(Option A) directly aligns with Option 1 of this credit, as it reduces the distance hot water must travel, minimizing heat loss and water waste.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theInnovation (IN) Prerequisite: Preliminary Rating, which requires the project team to conduct an early assessment to identify achievable credits and set sustainability goals.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

IN Prerequisite: Preliminary Rating

The intent is to maximize opportunities for integrative, cost-effective adoption of green design and construction strategies by establishing a preliminary rating early in the design process. This involves identifying potential credits and setting performance goals with the project team.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Innovation Prerequisite: Preliminary Rating, p. 186.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

IN Prerequisite: Preliminary Rating

The goal is to foster an integrative process that identifies cost-effective green strategies and aligns the project team on sustainability objectives from the outset.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isto maximize opportunities for integrative, cost-effective adoption of green design and construction strategies(Option C), as this reflects the prerequisite’s focus on early planning for sustainability.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes aHome Size Adjustmentas part of the point-scoring system to account for the environmental impact of larger homes, which typically use more resources and energy. This adjustment is applied across the project’s total points and is calculated based on conditioned floor area and the number of bedrooms.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

Home Size Adjustment

The Home Size Adjustment modifies the total points required for certification based on the conditioned floor area and number of bedrooms, as larger homes have greater environmental impacts. The adjustment is applied to the overall point threshold, not to a specific credit, but it aligns with credits likeIndoor Environmental Quality (EQ) Credit: No Environmental Tobacco Smoke, which ensures indoor air quality in larger homes.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Introduction, p. 24.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

Home Size Adjustment

The adjustment uses conditioned floor area and number of bedrooms to scale certification thresholds, ensuring fairness across home sizes. It impacts the overall certification process, particularly in relation to credits like EQ Credit: No Environmental Tobacco Smoke, which addresses indoor air quality in larger spaces.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isIndoor Environmental Quality Credit, No Environmental Tobacco Smoke(Option C), as the Home Size Adjustment influences the overall point requirements for certification, and this credit is relevant to ensuring air quality in homes of varying sizes.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)emphasizes site evaluation for credits likeLocation and Transportation (LT) Credit: Site Selection, which includes assessing past development activity to determine eligibility for options such as infill development or avoiding sensitive land.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

LT Credit: Site Selection (1–3 points)

Evaluate the site to determine if it meets criteria for infill development (e.g., at least 75% of the perimeter borders previously disturbed land) or avoids environmentally sensitive areas (e.g., prime farmland, floodplains). A LEED AP can assist by assessing past development activity to confirm eligibility for credits like Option 2: Infill Development.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Location and Transportation Credit: Site Selection, p. 54.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

LT Credit: Site Selection

A key step in site evaluation is determining whether the site has been previously developed or disturbed, which supports credits for infill or brownfield redevelopment.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isevaluate the site for any past development activity(Option B), as this directly supports achievingLT Credit: Site Selectionby confirming eligibility for infill development or other site-related credits.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)requires third-party verification for prerequisites and credits, with specific roles defined for the verification team. TheLEED Green Rateris responsible for conducting field inspections to verify compliance.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

Verification Process

The LEED Green Rater, a trained professional certified by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI), conducts field inspections to verify compliance with LEED for Homes prerequisites and credits, including energy, water, and indoor environmental quality measures.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Introduction, p. 28.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

Verification Process

The LEED Green Rater performs on-site inspections to ensure that the project meets all prerequisites and targeted credits, documenting compliance for certification.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isLEED Green Rater(Option D), as this team member is responsible for field inspections of LEED prerequisites and credits.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)addresses indoor air quality in theIndoor Environmental Quality (EQ) Prerequisite: VentilationandEQ Credit: Enhanced Ventilation, which require outdoor air to improve indoor air quality by reducing pollutant concentrations.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

EQ Prerequisite: Ventilation

Introduce outdoor air to dilute indoor pollutants, improving air quality by reducing the concentration of contaminants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and carbon dioxide.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Indoor Environmental Quality Prerequisite: Ventilation, p. 142.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

EQ Prerequisite: Ventilation

Outdoor air ventilation dilutes indoor pollutants, ensuring a healthier indoor environment by lowering contaminant levels.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The introduction of outdoor air improves indoor air quality primarily throughdilution(Option A), as it mixes with indoor air to reduce pollutant concentrations.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theEnergy and Atmosphere (EA) Credit: Windows, which sets performance requirements for windows to balance energy efficiency with design goals, such as large glazing areas for views. Higher window-to-wall ratios require more stringent performance to mitigate heat loss or gain.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

EA Credit: Windows (1–3 points)

Meet the prescriptive window performance requirements based on the window-to-exterior wall area ratio (WWR). If the WWR exceeds 24%, more stringent U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) values are required to ensure energy efficiency.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Energy and Atmosphere Credit: Windows, p. 122.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

EA Credit: Windows

For projects with a window-to-exterior wall area ratio greater than 24%, windows must meet enhanced performance criteria (e.g., lower U-factor and SHGC) to reduce energy losses.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer iswindow-to-exterior wall area ratio is greater than 24%(Option C), as this triggers stricter window performance requirements to maintain energy efficiency.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)addresses shower compartments in theWater Efficiency (WE) Credit: Indoor Water Use, where the size and number of showerheads impact water use calculations.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

WE Credit: Indoor Water Use (1–6 points)

A shower compartment is defined as an enclosed area with a floor area of no more than 2,500 in² (1.6 m²), where all fixtures (e.g., multiple showerheads) count as a single fixture for water use calculations. Compartments larger than 2,500 in² are considered multiple compartments, and multiple showerheads in such cases are not allowed for LEED compliance to ensure water efficiency.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Water Efficiency Credit: Indoor Water Use, p. 96.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

WE Credit: Indoor Water Use

For shower compartments exceeding 2,500 in² (1.6 m²), multiple showerheads are not permitted to maintain water efficiency goals. Each compartment must be treated separately if applicable, but large compartments cannot have multiple heads.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The shower compartment is 3,750 in² (2.4 m²), exceeding the 2,500 in² limit. Therefore,multiple showerheads are not allowed(Option C), as LEED restricts multiple heads in oversized compartments to ensure water efficiency.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)integrates theHome Energy Rating System (HERS) Indexin theEnergy and Atmosphere (EA) Prerequisite: Minimum Energy PerformanceandEA Credit: Annual Energy Useto measure a home’s energy efficiency.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

EA Prerequisite: Minimum Energy Performance

The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index, developed by the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET), is used to assess a home’s energy efficiency compared to a reference home. A lower HERS Index indicates better energy performance.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite: Minimum Energy Performance, p. 112.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

EA Prerequisite: Energy Performance

The HERS Index, created by RESNET, is the standard metric for energy efficiency in LEED for Homes, used to verify compliance with ENERGY STAR and LEED requirements.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isResidential Energy Services Network (RESNET)(Option D), as RESNET developed the HERS Index.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)encourages the use of native plants in theSustainable Sites (SS) Credit: Site Development – Protect or Restore HabitatandWater Efficiency (WE) Credit: Outdoor Water Useto enhance environmental benefits, including support for local ecosystems.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

SS Credit: Site Development – Protect or Restore Habitat (1–2 points)

Using native plants in place of conventional turf grass increases native wildlife habitat by providing food, shelter, and breeding areas for local species, supporting biodiversity.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Sustainable Sites Credit: Site Development – Protect or Restore Habitat, p. 74.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

SS Credit: Site Development – Protect or Restore Habitat

Native plants enhance native wildlife habitat by creating ecosystems that support local fauna, unlike turf grass, which offers minimal ecological value.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isnative wildlife habitat(Option B), as native plants are adapted to local conditions and support indigenous species, unlike turf grass.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theLocation and Transportation (LT) Credit: Site Selection, which awards points for building on infill or previously developed sites to minimize environmental impact.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

LT Credit: Site Selection (1–3 points)

Option 1: Infill: At least 75% of the lot’s perimeter must border previously developed parcels (e.g., existing buildings or infrastructure).

Option 2: Previously Developed: The lot must have been previously altered by construction (e.g., a prior home covering a significant portion of the site) before the LEED project.A site with a previous home covering 78% of the lot qualifies as previously developed, but if only one side (25% of a square lot’s perimeter) borders a developed parcel, it does not meet the infill requirement.Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Location and Transportation Credit: Site Selection, p. 54.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

LT Credit: Site Selection

A site qualifies forOption 2: Previously Developedif it was previously altered (e.g., a home covering 78% of the lot). Infill requires 75% of the perimeter to border developed land, which a square lot with only one developed side (25%) does not meet.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

Evaluation:

Infill: The lot is square, with one side (25% of the perimeter) bordering a developed home. This does not meet the 75% perimeter requirement for infill.

Previously Developed: The previous home covered 78% of the lot, qualifying it as previously developed.

The correct answer isPreviously Developed only(Option B), as the site meets the criteria for Option 2 but not Option 1.

Why not the other options?

A. Infill only: The site does not meet the 75% perimeter requirement for infill (only 25% borders developed land).

C. Infill and Previously Developed: The site does not qualify for infill, so it cannot meet both options.

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theWater Efficiency (WE) Credit: Outdoor Water Use, which awards points based on the ratio of turf grass (high water use) to native or adapted plants (low water use) in the softscape to reduce irrigation needs.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

WE Credit: Outdoor Water Use (1–4 points)

To achieve 3 points, the softscape must have less than 20% turf grass and more than 75% native or adapted plants, calculated by area.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Water Efficiency Credit: Outdoor Water Use, p. 98–99.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

WE Credit: Outdoor Water Use

For 3 points, the turf grass area must be less than 20% of the total softscape, and the native or adapted plant area must exceed 75%.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

Calculation:

Total softscape area: 57,500 ft² (5,342 m²).

Turf grass area: 8,000 ft² (743 m²).

Turf grass percentage: (8,000 ÷ 57,500) × 100 = 13.91% (< 20%, meets requirement).

Minimum native or adapted plant area for 3 points: > 75% of 57,500 ft² = 0.75 × 57,500 =43,125 ft².

Compare options:

A. 38,967 ft² (3,620 m²): 38,967 ÷ 57,500 = 67.77% (< 75%, does not meet).

B. 39,355 ft² (3,656 m²): 39,355 ÷ 57,500 = 68.44% (< 75%, does not meet).

C. 43,126 ft² (4,007 m²): 43,126 ÷ 57,500 = 75.00% (meets > 75% requirement).

D. 2,784 ft² (259 m²): 2,784 ÷ 57,500 = 4.84% (far below 75%, does not meet).

The correct answer is43,126 ft² (4,007 m²) of native or adapted plant area(Option C), as it meets the minimum requirement for 3 points.

TheLEED AP Homes Candidate Handbookemphasizes WE credits, including outdoor water use, and references theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Constructionas a key resource. The exam is based onLEED v4, ensuring the relevance of the table’s criteria.

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theIntegrative Process (IP) Credit: Integrative Process, Option 2: Trades Training, which requires training for key construction trades to ensure proper implementation of green building strategies.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

IP Credit: Integrative Process, Option 2: Trades Training (1 point)

The mechanical contractor (responsible for HVAC systems) must attend the entire four-hour training session to ensure proper installation and operation of energy-efficient systems critical to LEED compliance. Other trades, such as air sealing and insulation contractors, are also encouraged but not explicitly required to attend the full session.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Integrative Process Credit: Integrative Process, p. 45.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

IP Credit: Integrative Process, Option 2: Trades Training

The mechanical contractor, as a key trade responsible for energy-related systems, must participate fully in the four-hour training to meet the credit requirements, ensuring expertise in sustainable HVAC installation.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer ismechanical contractor(Option B), as their full attendance is critical due to the importance of HVAC systems in achieving LEED energy goals.

Why not the other options?

A. Project architect: Architects are part of the design team, not typically required for trades training.

C. Site supervisor or superintendent: While important, they oversee general construction, not specific system installation.

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)addresses shower compartments in theWater Efficiency (WE) Credit: Indoor Water Use, where the definition impacts water use calculations for fixtures like showerheads.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

WE Credit: Indoor Water Use (1–6 points)

A shower compartment is defined as an enclosed area with a floor area of no more than 2,500 in² (1.6 m²), where all fixtures (e.g., multiple showerheads) within the compartment count as a single fixture for water use calculation purposes. This accounts for simultaneous use in a single showering event.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Water Efficiency Credit: Indoor Water Use, p. 96.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

WE Credit: Indoor Water Use

A shower compartment has a maximum floor area of 2,500 in² (1.6 m²), and all fixtures within it are treated as a single fixture for calculating water use, reflecting typical usage patterns.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer ishas a floor area of no more than 2,500 in² (1.6 m²) with all fixtures within the compartment counting as a single fixture for calculation purposes(Option A), as this matches the LEED definition.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)awards points for theMaterials and Resources (MR) Credit: Environmentally Preferable Productswhen using certified lumber, specifically Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified wood, which contributes to the required percentage of material cost.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

MR Credit: Environmentally Preferable Products (1–4 points)

Use FSC-certified wood for at least 25% (1 point), 50% (2 points), or 90% (3–4 points) by cost of the total materials. For specific material categories like roof sheathing, at least 90% of the component (by cost) must be FSC-certified to significantly contribute to the credit.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Materials and Resources Credit: Environmentally Preferable Products, p. 160–161.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

MR Credit: Environmentally Preferable Products

Points are awarded for FSC-certified lumber if it constitutes at least 90% of a specific component like roof sheathing (by cost) to meet higher point thresholds (e.g., 3–4 points). Certified lumber is not a prerequisite; it contributes to the credit.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isif the certified content is greater than 90%(Option B), as this ensures the roof sheathing significantly contributes to the credit’s material cost threshold for points.

Why not the other options?

The question references an "Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite" for homeowner education, which appears to be a misnomer, as theLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes this requirement under theInnovation (IN) Prerequisite: Education of the Homeowner, Tenant, or Building Manager. This prerequisite ensures occupants are educated on the home’s sustainable features and maintenance needs.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

IN Prerequisite: Education of the Homeowner, Tenant, or Building Manager

Provide an operations and maintenance manual that includes product manuals for installed equipment (e.g., HVAC, water heating, renewable energy systems) to guide homeowners or tenants in proper operation and maintenance of green features.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Innovation Prerequisite: Education of the Homeowner, Tenant, or Building Manager, p. 188.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

IN Prerequisite: Education of the Homeowner or Tenant

The operations and maintenance manual must include product manuals for all installed equipment to ensure proper use and upkeep of sustainable systems.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isproduct manuals for installed equipment(Option C), as these are required in the operations and maintenance manual to support homeowner education.

Why not the other options?

Duct leakage in HVAC systems can significantly increase energy losses, particularly when ducts are poorly sealed or located in areas that exacerbate the impact of leakage. This issue is addressed in theLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)under theEnergy and Atmosphere (EA)category, specifically in credits related toHeating and Cooling Distribution Systems.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4), the location of ducts plays a critical role in energy losses due to leakage:

EA Credit: Heating and Cooling Distribution Systems

To minimize energy losses, locate all heating and cooling ducts and air handlers within the conditioned envelope of the building. Ducts located in unconditioned spaces, such as attics, basements, or exterior walls, are more likely to lose energy due to leakage, as air escaping from ducts in these areas is lost to the outside or unconditioned zones, increasing heating and cooling loads.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Energy and Atmosphere Credit: Heating and Cooling Distribution Systems, p. 126.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system further clarifies this:

EA Credit: Optimize Energy Performance

Ducts located in unconditioned spaces (e.g., attics, unconditioned basements, or exterior walls) contribute to significant energy losses when leakage occurs, as conditioned air escapes to areas outside the thermal envelope. Sealing ducts and locating them within conditioned spaces are best practices to minimize losses.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

Ducts inunconditioned attics, basements, or exterior wallsare particularly problematic because any leakage results in conditioned air being lost to spaces that are not temperature-controlled, requiring the HVAC system to work harder to maintain indoor comfort. This scenario maximizes energy losses compared to ducts within the conditioned envelope.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theIndoor Environmental Quality (EQ) Credit: Enhanced Garage Pollutant Protection, which aims to prevent garage pollutants (e.g., vehicle exhaust, chemicals) from entering conditioned living spaces.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

EQ Credit: Enhanced Garage Pollutant Protection (1–2 points)

To achieve the maximum points (2 points), use a detached garage, as it physically separates the garage from conditioned spaces, eliminating the risk of pollutant transfer. Other strategies, such as sealing the garage-conditioned space interface or installing exhaust fans, earn fewer points.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Indoor Environmental Quality Credit: Enhanced Garage Pollutant Protection, p. 149.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

EQ Credit: Enhanced Garage Pollutant Protection

A detached garage is the most effective strategy, earning the maximum 2 points by preventing any pollutant transfer from the garage to the home’s conditioned spaces.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isusing a detached garage(Option C), as it achieves the maximum points by eliminating the risk of pollutant infiltration.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)outlines the certification process, including who is authorized to submit a project to the Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI) for LEED certification.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

Certification Process

The project owner or a designated project team member (e.g., the project manager or LEED AP) is responsible for submitting the LEED for Homes project to GBCI for certification, coordinating with the LEED Green Rater for documentation and verification.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Introduction, p. 28.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

Certification Process

The owner or a designated project team member submits the project to GBCI for certification, supported by the Green Rater’s verification reports and documentation.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isthe Owner or designated project team member(Option D), as they are authorized to submit the project to GBCI.

Why not the other options?

A. The Green Rater: The Green Rater conducts field inspections and prepares verification reports but does not submit the project.

B. The Energy Rater: The Energy Rater focuses on energy performance (e.g., HERS Index) and does not handle submission.

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theSustainable Sites (SS) Credit: Nontoxic Pest Control, which awards points for strategies that prevent pest entry without relying on toxic chemicals.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

SS Credit: Nontoxic Pest Control (1 point)

Implement physical barriers to prevent pest entry, such as sealing all external cracks, joints, penetrations, edges, and entry points with caulking or other durable materials to reduce the need for chemical pest control.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Sustainable Sites Credit: Nontoxic Pest Control, p. 82.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

SS Credit: Nontoxic Pest Control

Sealing external cracks, joints, and penetrations with caulking is a primary strategy to earn points by preventing pest access in a nontoxic manner.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isseal all external cracks, joints, penetrations, edges, and entry points with caulking(Option A), as this is a direct, physical pest control strategy recognized by the credit.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)awards points for theMaterials and Resources (MR) Credit: Environmentally Preferable Productswhen products meet criteria such as low emissions (e.g., low-VOC paints or adhesives). Verification requires documentation to confirm compliance.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

MR Credit: Environmentally Preferable Products (1–4 points)

To verify that products are low-emitting, submit product literature or certification labels (e.g., GREENGUARD, SCS Indoor Advantage) demonstrating compliance with low-VOC or low-emission standards. This documentation confirms that products meet the credit’s requirements for indoor environmental quality.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Materials and Resources Credit: Environmentally Preferable Products, p. 161.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

MR Credit: Environmentally Preferable Products

Low-emitting products must be documented with product literature or third-party certification labels verifying compliance with VOC or emission standards.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isproduct literature or certification labels(Option C), as these provide the necessary evidence to verify low-emitting properties.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)addresses acoustic comfort in theIndoor Environmental Quality (EQ) Credit: Enhanced Ventilation, which includes requirements for bathroom exhaust fans to ensure they are quiet to encourage use and maintain indoor air quality.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

EQ Credit: Enhanced Ventilation (1–3 points)

For bathroom exhaust fans, select equipment with a maximum noise level of 1.0 sone to support acoustic comfort and encourage regular use. Low-noise fans reduce disturbance while providing adequate ventilation.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Indoor Environmental Quality Credit: Enhanced Ventilation, p. 146.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

EQ Credit: Enhanced Ventilation

Bathroom exhaust fans must not exceed 1.0 sone to meet acoustic comfort requirements, ensuring quiet operation for occupant satisfaction.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The maximum sone level for bathroom exhaust fans is1.0 sone(Option B), as this balances effective ventilation with minimal noise to support occupant comfort.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theIntegrative Process (IP) Credit: Integrative Process, Option 2: Design Charrette, which requires a collaborative meeting to integrate green strategies early in the design process.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

IP Credit: Integrative Process, Option 2: Design Charrette (1 point)

Conduct a design charrette with the project team lasting at least four hours to identify and integrate green strategies across all aspects of the building design, including energy, water, materials, and indoor environmental quality.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Integrative Process Credit: Integrative Process, p. 45.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

IP Credit: Integrative Process, Option 2: Design Charrette

The project team must hold a design charrette of at least four hours to collaboratively develop sustainable design strategies.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isfour hours(Option A), as this is the minimum duration required for the design charrette to earn the credit.

Why not the other options?

B. Six hours: This exceeds the minimum requirement of four hours.

C. Eight hours: This is unnecessarily long for the credit’s requirement.

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)requires a walk-through as part of theInnovation (IN) Prerequisite: Education of the Homeowner, Tenant, or Building Managerto educate occupants on the operation and maintenance of sustainable systems.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

IN Prerequisite: Education of the Homeowner, Tenant, or Building Manager

Conduct a minimum two-hour walk-through with the homeowner, including:

Identification of all installed equipment (e.g., HVAC, water heating systems).

Instruction on how to use and operate the equipment and green measures.

Information on how to maintain the equipment to ensure ongoing performance.Information on product return policies or rebates is not required.Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Innovation Prerequisite: Education of the Homeowner, Tenant, or Building Manager, p. 188.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

IN Prerequisite: Education of the Homeowner or Tenant

The walk-through must cover equipment identification, operation, and maintenance instructions, but does not include product return policies or rebates.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isinformation related to product return policies and rebates(Option D), as this is not a required component of the walk-through.

Why not the other options?

A. Identification of all installed equipment: This is required to familiarize occupants with sustainable systems.

B. Instruction in how to use the measures and operate the equipment: This is required to ensure proper operation.

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theSustainable Sites (SS) Prerequisite: No Invasive Plants, which ensures that landscaping does not introduce invasive species that could harm local ecosystems.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

SS Prerequisite: No Invasive Plants

All site vegetation must be non-invasive, as verified by the USDA Cooperative Extension Service or an equivalent authority (e.g., local native plant societies or university extension programs). Invasive species are those that are non-native and likely to cause environmental harm.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Sustainable Sites Prerequisite: No Invasive Plants, p. 72.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

SS Prerequisite: No Invasive Plants

All plants must be verified as non-invasive by the USDA Cooperative Extension Service or equivalent to ensure they do not disrupt local ecosystems.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isbe listed by USDA Cooperative Extension Service or equivalent(Option C), as this ensures that all site vegetation is non-invasive, meeting the prerequisite.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)addresses window performance in theEnergy and Atmosphere (EA) Credit: Windows, where a lower U-factor (thermal transmittance) improves energy efficiency by reducing heat loss or gain.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

EA Credit: Windows (1–3 points)

Use windows with a lower U-factor to reduce energy use by minimizing heat transfer through the glazing, improving the home’s thermal performance and reducing heating and cooling loads.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Energy and Atmosphere Credit: Windows, p. 122.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

EA Credit: Windows

A lower window U-factor reduces energy use by decreasing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, contributing to overall energy efficiency.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isreduced energy use(Option B), as a lower U-factor directly improves the home’s energy performance by reducing thermal transfer.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)addresses rainwater harvesting in theSustainable Sites (SS) Credit: Rainwater Management, which aims to reduce runoff and manage stormwater on-site, particularly in areas with significant rainfall events.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

SS Credit: Rainwater Management (1–3 points)

Implement rainwater harvesting systems (e.g., rain barrels, cisterns) to capture and store rainwater, reducing runoff volume and keeping water out of storm sewers. This is particularly beneficial in areas with substantial rainfall spikes, as it mitigates flooding and reduces strain on municipal stormwater systems.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Sustainable Sites Credit: Rainwater Management, p. 76.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

SS Credit: Rainwater Management

Rainwater harvesting reduces runoff by capturing water on-site, preventing it from entering storm sewers, which is especially effective during heavy rainfall events.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer iskeeps water out of storm sewers(Option C), as rainwater harvesting captures runoff, reducing the burden on stormwater infrastructure, particularly in areas with seasonal or substantial rainfall spikes.

Why not the other options?