Before the green movement gained ground in this country, being green was solely motivated by the effort of individuals who wanted to benefit from the environmental and financial perks of implementing green strategies for their homes. Although there is no governmental entity that sets forth guidelines for green building, the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) is the official institution to provide building owners and operators a concise framework for identifying and implementing practical and measurable green building design, construction, operations and maintenance solutions.

The USGBC developed the LEED program, LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. LEED is an internationally recognized green building certification system which provides third-party verification that a building or community was designed and built using strategies aimed at improving performance of buildings’ overall consumption. LEED addresses all aspects of energy use, such as general energy savings, water efficiency, CO2 emissions reduction, improved indoor environmental quality, and stewardship of resources and sensitivity to their impacts.

LEED has different rating systems differentiating between New Construction and Existing Construction and various building types. LEED for Homes is a rating system that promotes the design and construction of high-performance green homes. Green homes use less energy, water and natural resources, create less waste, and are more durable and comfortable for occupants. Why pursue LEED? The financial and environmental benefits to pursue LEED certification are obvious. But beyond the tangible benefits, the pursuit of LEED gives you good exposure in your community.

How can you apply for LEED certification? Applying for LEED is simple. LEED is run locally by LEED for homes providers. These providers are your primary connection to LEED certification and the first person to contact. Administrative and technical support providers oversee all performance testing and make sure your home meets benchmarks. It is advisable to involve a LEED accredited professional. A LEED AP is an expert in the field and will help you achieve your LEED goals. Log on to USGBC’s website to chose a provider.

Your project team should work with your provider and create an action plan. The project team will decide who will be responsible for which credits. Next you need to register the project directly with USGB on their website. If you are working with a LEED accredited professional he or she can do this for you.

Stay in close contact with your green rater to verify that requirements are met. After performance tests are conducted, the green rater prepares the documents:

* LEEDS for home final project check list
* a signed accountability form
* a durability evaluation and inspection list

The green rater then hands the documents to the provider. After a review by the USGB, USGB certifies to a third party provider.

After all is sealed and done you will receive a certificate, marketing tools and a press release which gives you exposure for your project and will facilitate future resale of your home.

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