The U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED credentialing system has been revolving in an effort to keep current with trends and technologies in the green building arena. With the testing for LEED professionals becoming more rigorous and specialized, you can be assured a more educated and aware professional will be there throughout the building process.
New LEED exams were put in place June 12; there are more of them now, geared to specify the building professional’s direction of specialization as well as the extensiveness of their skill set. The LEED AP Homes designation is one that lets you know the expert is uniquely qualified in the design and construction of high-performance green homes that use less energy, water, and natural resources; create less waste; and are more healthful and comfortable.
Under the new LEED exam system, not only do candidates have to pass the Homes exam, they will be required to first pass the LEED AP testing process to become a qualified “accredited professional,” proving general knowledge of green building. Additionally, in order to be considered for the exams, building professionals must have documentation of having worked on a LEED certified project prior to the AP exam.
Having a qualified LEED AP Homes specialist helping to build your dream home is nice, and knowing that they have earned that credential by proving themselves knowledgeable about green building gives you much more confidence in that person going forward.
In order for your home to earn LEED certification, it must earn a certain amount of points on the USGBC’s checklist. Having a LEED AP Homes building professional at the helm of your building project will only earn you one point towards certification; however, utilizing their knowledge, skills, and experience about green building should help you sail through the LEED program with points to spare. More importantly, it will assure you a home that is more friendly to the environment, your budget, and your health.
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