LEED FOR RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS
LEED is a rating system developed by the United States Green Building Council. The rating system outlines important sustainable design features that residential buildings should incorporate, and provides a scoring system to rank success. The rating system is available on the USGBC website, (www.usgbc.org/leed/rating-systems). The LEED rating system for residential buildings provides a guideline process for architects and builders to produce a more sustainable product.
The LEED for homes checklist is extensive. It starts with innovation in the design process, and then proceeds through site issues, water issues, energy and atmosphere issues, material issues, indoor environment issues, and finally awareness for the owner and the public. A detailed checklist is available on the USGBC website at new.usgbc.org/leed/rating-systems. The following is a summary of the main sections of this rating system.
The innovation and design process section has a total of 11 points and includes integrated project planning, durability management, and innovative or regional design opportunities. This section reinforces the importance of including all the design professionals early in the design process so innovation can happen.