LEED For Homes Rating System

LEED for Homes Rating System
January 2008
Corrections, Clarifications & Exemplary Performance Rulings LEED for Homes, Version 2008
This document includes corrections, clarifications, and new exemplary performance rulings since publication of the LEED for Homes Rating System, Version 2008. Most of the rulings below are the result of formal Credit Interpretation Requests that have been processed. In these cases, the ruling number is given in parentheses. All rulings below that were published in the January 2009 Errata & Clarifications document are applicable and enforceable for all projects registered after January 15, 2009. All rulings below that were published in the January 2010 Errata & Clarifications document are applicable and enforceable for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. All text in red is new as of April 1, 2013. Any new rulings identified as Clarifications should be applied and enforced for all LEED for Homes projects. Any new rulings identified as Interpretations or Corrections must be applied and enforced for projects registered after the publication of this Errata & Clarification document. See Appendix A for an abbreviated list of rulings, organized by release date.
Rating System Errata

Pg. XV, Exhibit 4 Under the Adjustment to award thresholds column, the second to last row should be +9, not +-9 Pg. XV the equation in Exhibit 5 should be changed from: 2850 + [250*(number of bedrooms) 5)] to 2850 + [250*(number of bedrooms 5)] Pg. 31 note, 3rd sentence should be changed from Ponds can be counted as open space if they border a walking or bicycle path to Areas around ponds can be counted as open space if they have usable, accessible recreational space such as walking or bicycle paths. Pg. 37 in the equation for Step 2, ETL should be ETL Pg. 39 gray concrete must have an SRI of 29 or greater to be awarded credit. Pg. 40: The language at least 70% of the built environment should be replaced with at least 70% of the buildable land. On p. 41, the heading for Table 9 is correct. Pg. 54 box for EA 8 should include Prerequisite: EA 8.1 Pg. 54: box for EA 11 should state, Prerequisite: EA 11.1, not Prerequisite: EA 2.1 Pg. 70, Table 20 change Solar water heaters (backup) to Solar water heaters Pg. 80, Table 24 within Floor: Flooring component, the Low-Emissions requirement should be changed from Hard flooring: additional point for 100% hard surface flooring to Hard flooring automatic: point for 90% hard surface flooring Pg. 81: In Figure 6, the Example Notice to Wood Products Suppliers should read: Notice to Vendors: [The company] prefers to purchase wood products that are certified according to the guidelines of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). [The company] also prefers not to use any tropical wood or wood products. If any tropical wood or wood products are supplied, they must
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U.S. Green Building Council
be FSC certified. Please provide the country of manufacture of each product you expect to supply to us. Also please provide a list of FSC-certified products you can supply. Pg. 81, Table 25 change first column heading from Component to Types of Paints and Coatings Pg. 81, Table 25 within first column, first row should be changed from Architectural paints, coatings, and primers, applied to interior walls and ceilings to Architectural paints, coatings, and primers, applied to interior elements Pg. 82: In Table 26, the entry for ceramic tile adhesive is missing. The requirement for ceramic tile adhesives (from LEED-NC) is 65 g/L. Pg. 83 requirement in MR 3.2, part (a), second sentence should be changed from Generate per square foot of conditioned floor area to Generate per square foot of building floor area. Pg. 84, Table 27 values in column 2 should be: 100%; 87.5%; 75%; 62.5%; 50%; 37.5%; 25%; and 12.5%. Values in column 3 should be: 0%; 12.5%; 25%; 37.5%; 50%; 62.5%; 75%; and 87.5%. Pg. 85 left column, sixth box should be EQ 8.2, not EA 8.2. Pg. 86, Table 28 first column, fourth row should be changed from Energy & Atmosphere 6.1 to Energy & Atmosphere 6.1(a) and 11.1 Pg. 86, Table 28 third column, fourth row should be changed from achieves prerequisites EA 6.1(a) and 6.1(c) to achieves prerequisites EA 6.1 (a) and EA 11.1. Pg. 87 under Conducting a Back-Draft Potential Test, equation should be changed from delta P = (Q/C) 1/n to delta P = (Q/C) Pg. 95: Under B. Nonducted HVAC Systems, there should be an OR between 7.2 and 7.3. Pg. 111: The Glossary definition of Infiltration Degree-Days is incorrect. Although heating degree-days and cooling degree-days may be a reasonable proxy for IDDs, it is not correct. The true definition of IDDs is provided in ASHRAE Standard 119-1988 (RA 2004) and it requires a rigorous calculation to determine.
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General
Clarification: As a response to growing international interest in residential green building and LEED for Homes, USGBC has launched an international pilot. Project teams outside the United States and Canada may now apply to participate in the international pilot. If selected, project teams will need to coordinate with USGBC and an approved LEED for Homes Green Rater on meeting the program, verification and certification submittal requirements of the LEED for Homes rating system. This process will include determining Alternative Compliance Pathways (ACPs). For more information on the International Pilot and the process for certification please visit usgbc.org. Canadian projects should pursue LEED Canada for Homes, offered by the CAGBC. Any project located in Canada that registered with LEED for Homes prior to the release of LEED Canada for Homes can be certified under LEED for Homes. Clarification: For multi-family buildings, it is unacceptable to have significantly disparate benefits for different units. A credit or prerequisite is not met if less than 100% of the units satisfy the requirements. For example, PV may only be credited if it serves all of the units / occupants. (EA 10-10)
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Home Size Adjuster (HSA)

Clarification: For group homes (e.g., dormitories, assisted living facilities, if a building has 9 units or fewer, treat the building as a single-family home (i.e., include all conditioned space). For group housing situations with more than 10 units, the building should be treated as a multi-family building. In this case, only the living space within the individual dwelling units should be counted in the home size adjuster. (HSA 02) Interpretation: When determining the square footage of the home for the HSA, include all directly conditioned space within the thermal boundary, calculated to the exterior wall. Include all normal living spaces and service areas (e.g., garages, utility rooms, closets, entries, crawl spaces, attics, basements) that are within the thermal boundary and meet ANSI Z765 requirements for ceiling height EXCEPT those that are separated from primary living spaces by insulated, weatherstripped doors AND are neither directly heated nor cooled. In the rare case of mild climates where normal living spaces in the home are neither heated nor cooled, include all spaces that are reasonably expected to be used as living areas or are normal adjuncts to living areas, such as closets, utility rooms, entries, etc. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. Clarification: Unique residential projects that do not meet the intent of a single family home but are also not being built like a multifamily building, such as fraternity houses and assisted living facilities, may submit a CIR and will be ruled on a case by case basis. Rulings will ensure the HSA is not over-penalizing or over-rewarding projects. Possible rulings include but are not limited to: allowing projects to add common space into the average unit size and then using the multifamily HSA and allowing projects to use a HSA of 0.
Innovative Design Process (ID)

ID 1.2 Integrated Project Team Clarification: The project team does not include the Provider and/or green rater. For part (a), the credit should be changed to Include team members, not including the builder or Green Rater, whose capabilities include Clarification: For part (c), if a project is on hold or inactive, monthly meetings are not required. (ID 01-03) ID 1.3 Professional Credentialed with Respect to LEED for Homes Clarification: ID 1.3 may only be awarded on the following conditions: 1) the person with the credential must be a principal member of the project team, and not a member of the verification team (e.g., not the Green Rater for the project); 2) the person with the credential must play an ongoing role on the project team, including participation in meetings, etc.; 3) the credential must
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be earned prior to the project's preliminary rating. There are currently no credentials or levels of experience that are considered equivalent to LEED AP Homes. (ID 01-06) ID 2.1 Durability Planning Clarification: For part (c), the use of paper-faced backerboard that meets ASTM mold-resistant standards is acceptable for exposed walls and behind fiberglass surrounds. It is not acceptable for use behind tile. (ID 02-17) Clarification: For part (c), the use of nonpaper-faced backerboard only applies to walls near tubs, showers, and spas. It is not required on ceilings or bathroom walls not near the tub, shower, or spa. (ID 02-16) ID 3 Innovative or Regional Design Clarification: Exemplary performance credit is not available for process or education related credits (e.g., ID 1.2-1.4; AE credits).
Locations and Linkages (LL)

LL 1 LEED for Neighborhood Development Clarification: Projects do not need to complete LEED-ND certification before earning this point, but the requirements of Stage 2 must be met. (LL 01-02) LL 2 Site Selection Clarification: Part (a) cannot met by raising a home off the ground. (LL 02-15) Clarification: If there are existing built features within 100 ft that will not be disturbed, these are exempted from LL 2 part (c). If there are existing built features within 100 ft that will be disturbed, the project does not meet LL 2 part (c) and credit LL 2 cannot be earned. (LL 02-11) LL 3.1 / 3.2 Edge Development / Infill Clarification: Where the term borders previously developed land is used, the adjacent land must have development that is at least 5 years old. (LL 03-08) Clarification: Where the term borders previously developed land is used, the land itself must be developed. Being located adjacent to a lot with development located on it is not sufficient unless the development is immediately adjacent to the LEED project. (LL 03-09) Clarification: If the home is located in a new development, then the term development site includes all of the new home sites in that new development, not just the one building site that is to be certified. Clarification: If a project borders a body of water, this border should not be included in the calculation i.e. it should not be a credit or penalty. (LL 03-07).
Clarification: If a project borders a park or is a corner lot, the adjacent park or roadway shall be treated as non-existent (i.e., assessment is to be based on the land on the other side of the park, or the land on the other side of one of the roadways). Interpretation: LL 3.3 may only be awarded if 75% of the total buildable land for the project was previously developed. This applies to single-family and multi-family projects. If the LEED home is built on the footprint of a previously existing structure, but this footprint comprises less than 75% of the total buildable land, LL 3.3 should not be awarded. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (LL 03-11) Clarification: A home that is part of a new development (e.g. <5 years old) may be awarded any LL credits, including LL 3.1 and LL 3.2, if the development meets the requirements of the Rating System. Not all homes in the development must be pursuing LEED certification. (LL 03-10) LL 4 - Infrastructure Clarification: Having a septic system is not a substitute for being located within mile of sewer service. However, a project can earn this credit even if the project is not actually connected to the existing water or sewer service, only located with mile of service. (LL 03-02) LL 5 Community Resources / Transit Clarification: If the number of transit rides varies throughout the year (e.g., the project is built in a seasonal resort or on an academic campus), the average rides per weekday should be used. (LL 05-01). Clarification: Multiple transit stops can only be counted if they are for different transit lines. For example, a single bus that stops just north of the home, in front of the home, and just south of the home should only be counted as one stop. If the bus passes by 10 times per weekday, 10 rides should be counted, not 30. (LL 05-03) Interpretation: The distance requirements must be calculated based on walking distances, not as the bird flies. For example, if a resource is within mile on a map, but requires > mile of walking because of highways or other obstructions, the resource should not be counted. Enforced for all projects registered after January 15, 2009. Exemplary Performance: Projects can earn 1 ID point if they are within mile of transit services that offer 250 or more transit rides per weekday. (LL 05-02) Exemplary Performance: Projects can earn 1 ID point if they are within mile walking distance of 28 community resources. As per the Rating System, projects may not take credit for more than 2 of the same type of community resource. (LL 05-05) LL 6 Access to Open Space Interpretation: The distance requirements must be calculated based on walking distances, not as the bird flies. For example, if a community-based open space is within mile on a map, but
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requires > mile of walking because of highways or other obstructions, it cannot be counted. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (LL 06-04)
Sustainable Sites (SS)

SS 1.2 Minimize Disturbed Area of Site Correction: In part (b), the term buildable lot area should be replaced with lot area, not including area that is legally protected from disturbance. Setbacks from the road are generally not buildable, but should still be preserved, if possible. Enforced for all projects registered after January 15, 2009. Clarification: Part (a) and (b) apply only to sites that are not previously developed or disturbed. Undeveloped sites with substantial amounts of garbage and/or invasive weeds should be treated as previously disturbed sites. SS 2.2 Landscaping Interpretation: The Glossary definition of Conventional Turf refers to considerable watering, mowing, and/or fertilizers. The intent is that any turfgrass that requires routine watering, mowing, or fertilizers should be considered conventional for the purposes of SS 2.3. Even turf identified as drought-tolerant may qualify as conventional for the purposes of SS 2.3. Further guidance on differentiating grasses for LEED for Homes is forthcoming from USGBC. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. Interpretation: For SS 2.5, if a grass has almost no mowing requirements (i.e., does not need to be mowed more than once or twice a year) and has no fertilizer / chemical requirements, the species may be treated as a groundcover in the calculation, which means a species factor (Ks) between 0.2 and 0.7 may be chosen. For all other cases, a species factor (Ks) between 0.6 and 0.8 must be chosen. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. Clarification: Projects that have no space for landscaping (e.g. buildings constructed to the edge of the lot line) may only earn points in SS 2.2-2.5, SS 3 (a), and WE 2.1-2.3 if a vegetated roof is installed and the vegetation meets the credit requirements. No points are available for SS 4.1 or 4.2. Interpretation: Credits in the SS & WE categories may only be awarded if there is permanent designed landscape. The soil or ground does not need to be native or pre-existing, and may be located over a podium or as part of a vegetated roof, but vegetation in planters cannot be used to meet the credit requirements. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. Clarification: Projects that choose or are unable to install landscaping (e.g. production builders, projects finishing during winter) may be certified on the following conditions: 1) a landscaping plan must be developed and provided to the homeowner that includes no invasive plants; (2) information or references about native and drought-tolerant plants must be provided to the
homeowner; and 3) no points may be awarded in SS 2, SS 3 (a), SS 4.2 (b), or SS 5 (d). Halfcredit may be granted for SS 4.1, but only if all final hardscapes are installed, including driveways, walkways, patios, etc. No credit may be awarded for SS 4.3 unless infiltration features are installed. (SS Gen-24; SS 04-36) Interpretation: For projects that choose or are only able to install 50% of the designed landscaping, points are available in the following way (credit requirements must be met in order for points to be awarded): Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (SS Gen-25) o SS 3 half credit is available, but all hardscapes must be installed and the hardscapes must meet the requirements through shading of installed vegetation or SRI values; o SS 4.1 - Half credit available. All final hardscapes must be installed, including driveways, walkways, patios, etc. o SS 4.2 - Full credit available, if all relevant erosion control measures are installed. o SS 4.3 - Full credit available, if all relevant stormwater controls are installed. o WE 1 Full credit is available. In the case of WE 1.1 for outdoor applications, the project team must submit a calculation demonstrating that the installed landscaping will need at least as much water as what will be collected for re-use. o WE 2.1 and WE 2.2 Half credit available, based on irrigation measures installed to serve installed landscaping. Clarification: Landscaping does not have to be fully established prior to certification; if the lot is seeded and mulched, the project can earn credit as appropriate in SS 2.2-2.5. (SS 02-38) Clarification: For areas with non-vegetated natural groundcover (e.g., bare mulch, pinestraw): If 50% of the designed landscaped is non-vegetated groundcover, the project must follow the prescriptive pathway. Non-vegetated natural groundcover can be used to earn SS 2.3 if the landscape professional considers it final, but it cannot earn credit under SS 2.4 or any credits under WE 2. If < 50% of the designed landscape is non-vegetated natural groundcover, projects may use the performance pathway, and exclude these areas from the calculation. (SS 02-34) Clarification: Plants that are used in rain gardens may be excluded from the calculations (i.e. not counted for or against the project) in SS 2.4 and SS 2.5 if the plants meet the following conditions: they are not served by an irrigation system, AND they appear on a list of rain garden appropriate plants published by a local or regional 3rd party source (e.g., agricultural extension office, botanical garden). (SS 02-40) Clarification: For SS 2.5, a project with no irrigation system cannot earn points automatically. Please see the guidance document for the outdoor water use calculation that relates to this credit. The calculator was updated in November, 2009. (SS 02-30; SS 02-43) Exemplary Performance: For projects earning credit in SS 2.5, 1 ID point may be awarded if the requirements of SS 2.2, parts (b), (c), and (d) are met. (SS 02-29) Clarification: Areas with synthetic turf should be treated like a hardscape. If the synthetic turf is permeable and includes a porous subbase, it may be counted under SS 4.1 (b). (SS 02-39) SS 3 Local Heat Island Effect
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Correction: Gray concrete (part ii) is not an acceptable approach to earning this credit unless it is demonstrated to have an SRI of at least 29. Enforced for all projects registered after January 15, 2009. (SS 03-04) Clarification: For multi-home developments, common roads should not be included in this calculation. (SS 03-13) Clarification: Additional methods for earning the credit: parking that is a) beneath the home; b) under a vegetated deck; c) lower levels of a multi-level garage; or d) the top level of a multi-level garage that meets the credit requirements. (SS 03-07, SS 03-10) Clarification: SS 3 applies to both existing and new hardscapes. Common roads serving multiple homes should not be included in the calculations for SS 3. Clarification: SS 3 may be awarded if shading is provided by existing trees on the property (SS 03-17) Exemplary Performance: Projects can earn ID point if 100% of the sidewalks, patios, and driveways meet the credit requirements. (SS 03-08) SS 4.1 Permeable Lot Correction: The calculation for this credit should include all buildable land, not built environment. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (SS 04-19) Interpretation: Non-vegetated natural groundcover (e.g., bare mulch, pine straw) can be used to earn credit SS 4.1, but it must meet the requirements under SS 4.1 part (b). Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (SS 02-34) Clarification: To be treated as permeable under SS 4.1, gravel areas must comply with part (b) of the credit, which includes a porous sub-base. This applies to all gravel areas, including those where the soil below is not expected to be compacted. (SS 04-35) Clarification: Part (c) cannot be satisfied by vegetation unless the vegetated elements are designed by a landscape professional or equivalent to accommodate the additional water running off the impermeable surfaces being served. Any designed elements should be able to handle water from a 2-year, 24-hour design storm. (SS 04-24; SS 04-37) SS 4.2 Permanent Erosion Controls Clarification: For part (b), trees installed should be mature enough to have a caliper (trunk thickness) of at least 1.5 inches. Also, it is acceptable to use ten 2-gallon shrubs, six 3-gallon shrubs, or five 4-gallon shrubs rather than four 5-gallon shrubs per 500 sf. (SS 04-18; SS 04-28) SS 5 Nontoxic Pest Control Clarification: For part (a), this requirement only applies to wood that is part of the built structure; it does not apply to material stored on-site during construction.
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Clarification: For part (a), there should be at least 12 of air separating the ground from wood; small rocks are considered to be soil for the purposes of the credit. (SS 05-26; SS 05-28) Interpretation: A project with a non-cellulosic structure can meet part (a) if all wood, including siding, trim, etc. meet the credit requirements. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (SS 05-20) Clarification: For part (c), this requirement applies to all exterior elements, including the faade and exterior framing over foundations. (SS 05-21) Clarification: For part (d), all structures that connect to the home without a gap (e.g., porches, steps) must be at least 24 from mature plant parts. (SS 05-16) Clarification: Part (d) may only be earned if all vegetation is 24 away from the home, including grass and groundcover. (SS 05-27) Clarification: For part (e-i), all borate treatment is required at least three feet above the foundation, even if the foundation is raised or extended above grade. (SS 05-25) SS 6 Compact Development Clarification: Buildable land should not include setbacks defined by law as excluded from residential development. Buildable land should include setbacks defined only in developer or covenants or HOA agreements.
Water Efficiency (WE)

WE 1.1 Rainwater Harvesting System Clarification: Partial credit (1 point) can be awarded if a system is installed that only collects water from 25-50% of the roof area, but a storage tank must be installed to collect water for a 1inch rain event falling on 50% of the roof area. (WE 01-01b) WE 2.1 High Efficiency Irrigation System Clarification: If a project earns points in SS 2.5, additional points for irrigation system improvements may only be earned in WE 2.3. No points may be earned in WE 2.1 or WE 2.2. Exemplary Performance: Projects with only landscaping beds (i.e., no turf) that are served only by low-volume and point source irrigation (e.g., drip) can earn 0.5 point of exemplary performance credit, to be counted in ID 3. (WE 02-21) WE 2.3 Reduce Overall Irrigation Demand by at Least 45% Exemplary Performance: Projects can earn ID points for achieving a reduction in estimated outdoor water use of 65% or more. A reduction of 65% or more is awarded 1 ID point; 70% or
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more is awarded 2 ID points; 75% or more is awarded 3 ID points; 80% or more is awarded 4 ID points. (WE 02-18). These exemplary points can only be awarded under ID credit 3. WE 3 Indoor Water Use Clarification: Part (c) cannot be earned through the use of toilet tank bags. (WE 03-16) Clarification: For part (c), the flow rate of dual-flush toilets can be calculated using the following formula (high and low volumes must be verified): (WE 03-15) Avg. volume = [(high volume flush) + 2* (low volume flush)] 3 Clarification: Flow restrictors are an acceptable strategy to earn WE 3, if the flow-restrictors are hardware that cannot easily be removed. For toilets, flush valve conversion devices and toilet tank bags cannot be used to earn credit under WE 3. (WE 03-19; WE 03-16; WE 03-20) Clarification: Average or weighted flow rates (i.e. in the case of dual-flush toilets) must be calculated to the hundredths place. For example, if the average flow rate for toilets is 1.13 gal/flush, this cannot be rounded down to 1.10. (WE 03-18)
Energy and Atmosphere (EA)

Regional Builder Option Packages (e.g. Hawaii, Pacific Northwest) Clarification: If a project is meeting a regional Builder Option Package (BOP) but not meeting the prerequisites in the prescriptive approach (i.e. EA 2 10), the regional BOP can be used to satisfy EA 1.1. (An example of a regional BOP is the Pacific Northwest BOP.) In the case of a project that only minimally complies with a regional BOP, the project may only earn EA points for meeting the requirements of EA 7.1, 7.2, and 11.2. (EA 0-14; EA 04-10; EA 07-21). EA 1.1 Performance of Energy Star for Homes Clarification: The performance requirements of Energy Star for Homes 2006 are published on the EPA website and include: 1) HERS Index of 80 or lower in climate zones 6-8 or HERS Index of 85 or lower in climate zones 1-5; 2) completed Thermal Bypass Inspection Checklist, including slab-edge insulation in climate zones 4+; 3) duct leakage of less than 6 CFM to outdoors per 100 sq. ft.; 4) at least one Energy Star qualified product (heating or cooling equipment; windows; 5 or more labeled light fixtures, appliances, or ventilation fans); 5) indoor and outdoor coils must be matched, in accordance with AHRI standards; 6) adaptive recovery for any programmable thermostats installed in homes with a heat pump; and 7) maximum oversizing limit for air conditioners and heat pumps is 15%, with the exception of heat pumps in Climate Zones 5-8, where maximum oversizing is 25%). (EA 01-25) Clarification: EA 1.1 includes the requirement to meet the performance requirements of ENERGY STAR for Homes 2006. For example, in Florida homes must meet a HERS Index of 85; credit is awarded for a lower HERS Index in EA 1.2. (EA 01-23)
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Clarification: Energy Star for Homes does not allow projects to meet the minimum HERS Index with renewable power systems. However, solar thermal domestic hot water systems may be used to meet the minimum HERS Index requirement. (EA 01-36) Clarification: It is acceptable to create a HERS Index for the worst-case home in the building, or the worst-case home among multiple attached single-family homes. The EPA guidelines should be used, including the worst-case among the units for exposed wall area, window-to-floor area ratio. Performance tests (e.g. blower door test, duct blaster test) must be completed on every home (except where sampling is applicable), and the HERS Index must include the worst-case performance test results from among all homes included in the batch. (EA 01-38) Clarification: According to the EPA, homes with uninsulated walls may meet the performance requirements of ENERGY STAR for Homes. There is no explicit requirement in the Thermal Bypass Checklist (TBC) that walls must be insulated; TBC requirements relate to air barrier details in walls where insulation does exist. Note that the slab edge insulation requirement in the current TBC would still apply to slab-on-grade construction in Climate Zones 4 and higher. (EA 02-12) Clarification: A Manual J (or equivalent) calculation is required for each unit in multi-family or multi-home projects. It may be possible to re-use a Manual J calculation, but only if the units have the same or very similar design (including size, orientation, exposure, and energy-efficiency measures) such that they would be expected to have the same loads. Clarification: Although Manual J & D calculations are not required for ductless projects, calculations must be performed to determine the room-by-room loads based on specific features of the home and to determine how to size the distribution system to satisfy these loads. In the case where individual heating and cooling units are used in each room (e.g. radiant floor heating, mini-splits), the distribution requirement may be satisfied by performing the load calculations and then following manufacturers guidance to meet these loads. EA 2.1 Basic Insulation Clarification: For part (b) in historic homes, gut-rehab homes, or other cases where part of an exterior wall cavity is inaccessible, LEED for Homes follows the guidance provided by EPA in Note 1 of the TBC: verification of measures in the thermal bypass inspection checklist (TBC) are subject to the judgment and discretion of the energy rater. If an energy rater is satisfied that the methodology and results of infrared testing on a project meet the TBC requirements, this is acceptable. Similarly, if the home energy rater is satisfied that a specific approach to blown-in insulation meets the TBC requirements on a project, this is acceptable. (EA 02-06; EA 02-14) Clarification: According to the EPA, the slab-edge insulation requirement in the TBC only applies to slab-on-grade floors with a floor surface less than 12" below grade. Basements are typically exempted under this definition, except for walkout basements. However, EPA also allows up to 25% of the slab edge to be uninsulated. (EA 02-19) EA 6.1 Good HVAC Design and Installation
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Update: To meet EA 6.1(c), programmable thermostats are no longer required to be ENERGY STAR labeled. Clarification: The note indicates that homes with no air-conditioning must follow the performance approach (e.g. EA 1). Homes with no heating must also follow the performance approach, and may not use the prescriptive pathway. Clarification: Part (b) requires that the HVAC equipment meet or exceed the performance specifications in the ENERGY STAR national BOP. This includes the following requirements not mentioned in the Rating System: 1) homes with heat pumps and programmable thermostats must have adaptive recovery; 2) Indoor and outdoor coils shall be matched in accordance with ARI standards; and 3) "Maximum oversizing limit for air conditioners and heat pumps is 15% - with the exception of heat pumps in Climate Zones 5 - 8, where the maximum oversizing limit is 25%." (EA 06-21; EA 06-29; EA 06-30) Clarification: A Manual J (or equivalent) calculation is required for each unit in multi-family or multi-home projects. It may be possible to re-use a Manual J calculation, but only if the units have the same or very similar design (including size, orientation, exposure, and energy-efficiency measures) such that they would be expected to have the same loads. Clarification: Although Manual J & D calculations are not required for ductless projects, calculations must be performed to determine the room-by-room loads based on specific features of the home and to determine how to size the distribution system to satisfy these loads. In the case where individual heating and cooling units are used in each room (e.g. radiant floor heating, mini-splits), the distribution requirement may be satisfied by performing the load calculations and then following manufacturers guidance to meet these loads. EA 7.1 Efficient Hot Water Distribution Clarification: Partial credit (1 point) is awarded if a project meets part (a) structured plumbing system - sections i, iii, and iv. (EA 07-20) Clarification: Pot-fillers can be left out of this equation if they are not located above a sink or drain. (EA 07-14) Clarification: For EA 7.1, determine ceiling height by measuring the floor-to-floor distance. (EA 07-22b) Interpretation: No additional branch length should be allowed for homes with a basement, and a basement should not be considered an additional story for EA 7.1. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (EA 07-32) Clarification: Part (a) can be met using multiple loops that extend from a single water heater. EA 7.1 (b) and (c) can be met with multiple water heaters. (EA 07-27; EA 07-28) Clarification: For parts (a-iii), (b-iii), and (c-i), calculate the length of installed pipe from the circulation loop, manifold, or water heater to the furthest fixture. Any 3/8 diameter piping
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should be counted at half the length of diameter pipe when calculating maximum branch length; check local code for compliance. (EA 07-29) Clarification: For part (c-i) in a multi-story home, the maximum allowable branch length differs for each story. Branches to 1st floor fixtures may not exceed 20 feet; branches to 2nd story fixtures may not exceed 20 feet + 1x the story height; branches to 3rd story fixtures may not exceed 20 feet + 2x the story height; etc. (EA 07-23) Clarification: For part (a-iv), motion sensors are an acceptable alternative to push button controls as long as the motion sensor is designed to activate the demand-controlled pump and there is a time delay after the initial trigger to shut off the pump. The sensor should be installed in a way that the pump is only activated if someone is very close to the faucet or shower. Interpretation: Basements should not be considered an additional story for EA 7.1 No additional branch length should be allowed for basements. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (EA 07-32) EA 7.2 Pipe Insulation Clarification: In order to earn this point, all hot water pipes not used for direct space heating (e.g. radiative floor heating) must meet the requirements of the credit, including sub-slab hot water pipes. (EA 07-16) EA 8.3 Advanced Lighting Package Correction: The second part of the credit, Install Energy Star labeled lamps in 80% of the fixtures ought to be At least 80% of all lamps in the home must be Energy Star labeled. This may affect the requirement of the credit where fixtures include multiple lamps. Enforced for all projects registered after January 15, 2009. Exemplary Performance: Projects can earn 1 ID point for the use of 90% ENERGY STAR fixtures (i.e. not just lamps) and 100% ENERGY STAR ceiling fans. (EA 08-18) Interpretation: According to EPA, in multi-family buildings the Advanced Lighting Package only applies to in-unit spaces, not corridor or outdoor public lighting. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (EA 08-22) EA 11.1 Refrigerant Charge Test Clarification: Split systems, even those that are pre-charged, must have a refrigerant charge test to satisfy EA 11.1. This prerequisite is only waived for ground-source heat pumps that are precharged and sealed. (EA 11-04; EA 11-05)
Materials and Resources (MR)

MR 1.2 / 1.3 Detailed Framing Documents / Cut List & Lumber Order
Clarification: Projects with a precut framing package (e.g. kit homes) are awarded MR 1.2 and MR 1.3 automatically. Modular homes or any projects earning MR 1.5 cannot earn MR 1.2 or MR 1.3. (MR 01-41) Clarification: This credit can be earned by projects with non-wood frames if the requirements are met for the relevant structural material. (MR 01-39) Clarification: For gut-rehab projects, if 90% of the interior and exterior framing for the final LEED home (i.e., not the original home) is salvaged or maintained, both MR 1.2 and MR 1.3 should be awarded automatically. (MR 01-42)
MR 1.4 Framing Efficiencies Clarification: The requirements of this credit only apply to exterior framing. Clarification: If the requirements are met in only 50% of the walls (by area), half credit can be awarded. (MR 01-29) MR 1.5 Off-Site Fabrication Clarification: This credit should only be awarded if the walls, roof, and floor are all fabricated off-site. A combination of panelized walls, roof trusses, and floor trusses satisfies this credit. If only the walls are panelized, 2 points should be awarded under MR 1.4. (MR 01-40) Clarification: This credit can be awarded to homes with pre-cut SIPs in the walls, roof, and floor. If SIPs are cut on-site, or only used in walls and/or roof, no points should be awarded for this credit; points may be awarded in MR 1.4 instead. (MR 01-37) Clarification: This credit can be awarded to homes with concrete panelized wall systems if they are formed and poured off-site. (MR 01-36) Exemplary Performance: Projects that earn MR 1.5 may not be awarded credit for MR 1.2 or MR 1.3. Projects that earn MR 1.5 can earn exemplary performance for incorporating advanced framing strategies into panelized or modular construction. Projects may be awarded as many as 2 points in ID 3 for the following: (MR 01-47) Open-web floor trusses point Stud spacing greater than 16 o.c. point Two of the following point; all four of the following 1 point: o Ceiling joist spacing greater than 16 o.c. o Floor joist spacing greater than 16 o.c. o Roof rafter spacing greater than 16 o.c. o 2 of the following: size headers for actual loads; user ladder blocking or drywall clips; use 2-stud corners MR 2.1 FSC Certified Tropical Wood
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Interpretation: Finished products that are verified with any of the FSC designations (e.g., FSC Pure, FSC Mixed Source, FSC Mixed Credit, FSC Recycled) can be considered FSC certified for this prerequisite. This is not the case if only part of the finished product is verified with one of the FSC designations. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (MR 02-117; MR 05-15) Clarification: FSC Chain of Custody must be intact until the point of purchase by the project team. Project team contractors and subcontractors do not need to have Chain of Custody. (MR 02-121)
MR 2.2 Environmentally Preferable Materials Clarification: For part (a), the following product types also qualify: (MR 02-65; MR 02-58; MR 02-64; MR 02-63; MR 02-73; MR 02-39; MR 02-103): Assembly Foundation Interior wall Interior wall AND ceilings Other Other Other Other EPP specification (0.5 point per component) Aggregate Recycled content of 25% post-consumer (no credit for post-industrial recycled content) Framing Finger-joist studs Gypsum Recycled content of 10% post-consumer OR 95% post-industrial Cabinets Bamboo w/ no added urea-formaldehyde resins Perimeter fencing Recycled content, reclaimed, or FSC-certified (new) DHW supply Polypropylene or PEX piping (new) Driveway (new) Reclaimed, recycled, FSC-certified, or 30% flyash/slag Component
Interpretation: Products that are verified as FSC Pure, FSC Mixed Credit, FSC Mixed Source, or FSC Mixed NN% may be treated as FSC certified. Products that are verified as FSC Recycled or FSC Recycled credit earn EPP credit as recycled-content materials. This is not the case if only part of the finished product is verified with one of the FSC designations. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (MR 02-117; MR 05-15) Clarification: For the component Other: Trim this only refers to interior trim, not exterior trim. (MR 02-57) Clarification: For the component Floor: Flooring, wool carpet is an acceptable alternative to meet the EPP specification. (MR 02-120)
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Interpretation: For the component Floor: Flooring, a project can earn credit for low-emissions flooring if a) at least 90% of the flooring is CRI Green Label Plus carpet with CRI Green Label pad, OR b) at least 90% of the flooring is hard surface flooring, OR c) at least 90% of the flooring is a combination of CRI Green Label Plus carpet (with Green Label pad) and hard surface flooring. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (MR 02-72; MR 02-119) Clarification: For the component Roof and Floor and Wall: Insulation this only refers to cavity insulation, not rigid sheathing insulation. It does apply to integrated cavity insulation, such as in SIPs and ICFs. (MR 02-59). Clarification: For the component Interior Walls and Ceilings and Millwork: Paints and Coatings, points may only be awarded if all of the paints and coatings used in the interior of the home meet the requirements. Pre-finished surfaces should be assumed to satisfy the emissions specification. (MR 02-84) Clarification: For part (a), Cradle-to-Cradle (C2C) certification is an acceptable alternative for any component. Credit cannot be granted for being C2C certified and also meeting the existing criteria (e.g. recycled-content, reclaimed, FSC). Clarification: For part (c), 90% of a given product must have its entire lifecycle within 500 miles to be awarded credit. For example, even the petroleum in insulation products must be verified as being sourced from within 500 miles of the project. Clarification: Both ICFs and SIPs should be treated as two different components framing and insulation. If the requirements for either or both components are met, points should be awarded accordingly. (MR 03-04) Clarification: Garage floors (for both conditioned and unconditioned garages) should not be included in the calculation for EPP, low-emissions, or local flooring. (MR 02-101) Clarification: The component decking or patio material should be re-labeled as Decking AND patio. If both decking and patio exist on site, at least 90% of the material in both must meet EPP requirements for EPP credit, or local for local credit. For this component, materials containing 30% fly-ash/slag as a substitute for cement qualify for EPP credit. This credit can still be awarded for projects with only a deck or a patio, as long as the requirements are met. (MR 02103) Exemplary Performance: The following product types qualify for exemplary performance credit for 1 point total (i.e., 0.5 point in MR 2.2, 0.5 point in ID 3) (MR 02-96; MR 02-97) Requirement for credit in MR 2.2 (1/2 pt each) 30% flyash / slag 30% flyash / slag Recycled content, FSC-16-
Assembly Foundation Exterior wall Roof, floor,

Component Cement Framing/ wall structure Sheathing
Requirement for Exemplary Performance (1/2 pt each) 50% flyash/slag 50% flyash/slag Recycled content, FSCApril 1, 2013
wall
certified, or reclaimed material in 2 of 3 (roof/floor/wall)
certified, or reclaimed material in 3 of 3 (roof/floor/wall)
MR 3.2 Construction Waste Reduction Clarification: Acceptable strategies for waste diversion include: (MR 03-13; MR 03-24) Recycling Third-party scrap reuse On-site grinding of engineered lumber, untreated cellulosic material, and gypsum for use as a soil amendment
Clarification: Strategies that cannot be counted as diversion include: (MR 03-13; MR 03-21) Scrap reuse by the builder Burying unground material on-site Packing unused material into wall cavities Grinding treated / finished wood as soil amendment Incineration, even waste-to-energy applications
Indoor Environmental Quality (EQ)

EQ 1 ENERGY STAR with Indoor Air Package Update: LEED for Homes will treat certification under Indoor airPLUS (the USEPAs replacement for Indoor Air Package) as equivalent to certification under the Indoor Air Package: EQ 1 earned with Indoor airPLUS is worth 13 points. Projects registered after June 23, 2009 must use Indoor airPLUS to earn EQ 1. (EQ 01-03) EQ 2.1 Basic Combustion Venting Measures Clarification: Part (c) is satisfied if the fireplace has a solid glass enclosure. Clarification: In multi-family buildings, CO monitors must be installed in each unit, on each floor (if individual units have multiple floors). EQ 2.2 Enhanced Combustion Venting Measures Clarification: Projects with masonry wood-burning fireplaces can earn 1 point for either meeting the requirements for a masonry heater OR passing the backdraft potential test. These projects must meet the requirements for a masonry heater AND pass the backdraft potential test to earn 2 points. (EQ 02-23) EQ 3 Moisture Load Control
Clarification: Dehumidification equipment is not required to maintain RH <60% for every hour of the year; projects are granted some discretion. When determining latent loads to include, use ASHRAE Fundamentals or a comparable standard. Loads should include outdoor loads from ventilation and air leakage, as well as indoor loads from showers, cooking, etc. (EQ 03-06). EQ 4.1 Basic Ventilation Correction: EQ 4.1 references ASHRAE Std. 62.2-2007, but the exemption in part (a) references infiltration degree days, which are not included in Std. 62.2-2007. The only exemptions allowed within LEED for Homes are those listed in ASHRAE Std. 62.2-2007. Homes with fewer than 4,500 infiltration degree days are no longer exempt from the ventilation requirements. The exemptions listed in ASHRAE Std. 62.2-2007 are the following: Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (EQ 04-23) a) buildings in zone 3B or 3C of the IECC 2004/2007 Climate Zone Map; b) buildings with no mechanical cooling that are located in zone 1 or 2 of the IECC 2004/2007 Climate Zone Map; and c) buildings that are thermally conditioned for human occupancy for less than 876 hours per year. Clarification: For part (c), ASHRAE Std 62.2, section 4.4 provides guidance on how to calculate ventilation rates for systems that operate intermittently. Please review the standard; a system that operates infrequently must compensate with a larger fan flow rate. (EQ 04-27) Clarification: For part (d) passive ventilation - Green Raters must verify some evidence (e.g., model results, calculations, or on-site test results) that the design will yield air flows equivalent to those required by ASHRAE Std. 62.2. Design features are not sufficient. Operable windows and natural infiltration is not sufficient, because the air flows in Std. 62.2 already assume natural infiltration rates. If passive ventilation is used, the project team should submit its strategy to the EQ TASC for research and information purposes. (EQ 04-26) EQ 5.1 Basic Local Exhaust Clarification: Part (d) is waived for bathrooms with an ERV or HRV. (EQ 05-11) Clarification: As written, ASHRAE Standard 62.2 (and LEED for Homes) requires local exhaust in the kitchen that meets the following: If the fan capacity produces fewer than 5 kitchen ACH, the exhaust must be provided by a range hood and meet the 100 CFM requirement in Std. 62.2; If the fan capacity produces greater than 5 kitchen ACH, the exhaust may be a non-range hood, but must be located in the kitchen. (EQ 05-16) EQ 5.2 Enhanced Local Exhaust Clarification: This credit can be awarded if the requirements are met for all bathrooms with showers, bathtubs, or spas (i.e. half-baths are excluded). (EQ 05-12) Interpretation: For EQ 5.2, timers should be set to operate exhaust fans for at least 20 minutes after showering. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (EQ 05-13)
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EQ 6.1 Room-by-Room Load Calculations Clarification: For ductless systems, a Manual D calculation is not required but some calculations are required for room-by-room loads based on specific features of the home and calculations are required to demonstrate that the loads are met based on the distribution system installed (e.g. hot water piping). Clarification: If the Total Equivalent Length cannot be verified, it's acceptable to verify an equivalent calculation for the friction coeffecient or pressure drop over the ductwork. TEL is one way to estimate pressure drop over ductwork, but there are other methods. EQ 7 Air Filtering Clarification: Mini-split systems and PTAC units are not ducted, but they must meet the requirements of EQ 7.1. Section B only applies to homes with hydronic systems. Clarification: The air filter requirement is waived for HRV and ERV systems. If a home includes a forced-air AHU and an HRV or ERV, the AHU must still meet the prerequisite in EQ 7.1. (EQ 07-08) Clarification: For EQ 7.1, air filters meeting the minimum MERV requirement are required on both air-handling equipment and mechanical supply ventilation systems. (EQ 07-15) Clarification: Projects with a mechanical supply ventilation system that is separate from the AHU (i.e. outdoor air does not come through the AHU) can earn EQ 7.2 and 7.3 if only the mechanical ventilation system meets the credit requirements. The AHU still must meet the requirements of EQ 7.1. (EQ 07-16) Clarification: Nonducted HVAC systems such as PTACs and minisplits are exempt from EQ 7.1 per the requirements of ASHRAE Standard 62.22007, section 6.7. The LEED Steering Committee approved this clarification on 9/10/09, reversing a previous ruling. (EQ 07-13) EQ 8.1 Indoor Contaminant Control During Construction Clarification: This credit should not be awarded automatically to projects with nonducted systems. Projects with nonducted systems must submit a CIR to earn this point; within the CIR, the project must demonstrate an effort to reduce construction pollutant exposure to occupants. Examples include covering radiators or mini-split air handler units during construction, and implementing a thorough cleaning program of all equipment. (EQ 08-11) EQ 8.2 Indoor Contaminant Control Clarification: For part (a), walk-off mats must be at least 4 feet long in the primary direction of travel. (EQ 08-23) EQ 9 Radon Protection
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Clarification: The requirements for radon protection are automatically satisfied if the home is elevated by at least 2 ft. with open air space between the home and ground. An open-air garage under a multi-family building is an acceptable alternative. (EQ 09-13; EQ 09-07) Interpretation: Radon-resistant new construction includes five components: 1) gas-permeable layer; 2) heavy-gauge plastic sheeting; 3) sealing and caulking of all penetrations through the concrete slab; 4) vent pipe that exhausts gases to the outside through side wall or roof; and 5) electrical outlet near vent piping. It is not acceptable to cap the exhaust pipe inside the home. This ruling adds to a previous ruling published in the January 15, 2009 Errata & Clarifications document; new aspects of the ruling must be enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (EQ 09-11; EQ 09-16) Clarification: Gut-rehab projects must do one of the following (EQ 09-06): 1. Meet the requirements in ASTME-2121, which includes: install passive radon-resistant infrastructure, including piping through slab that connects to exterior through sidewall or roof. In this case, the area under the slab must be tested for connectivity, to ensure the piping accommodates the entire sub-slab area. Depending on sub-slab connectivity, multiple source pipes may be needed. In this case, a post-construction test is still strongly recommended. 2. Conduct radon testing. If the test shows minimal radon risks, no further action is required. If the test shows an unacceptable radon risk, an active radon mitigation system is required. See EQ 09-15 for details about how to conduct the testing. USGBC follows the EPA recommendations on radon testing. See www.epa.gov/radon/pubs/citguide.html for details. Clarification: For projects in Canada, the prerequisite is to have the home tested for radon OR install radon resistant new construction. If the project installs an active sub-slab or submembrane depressurization system, 1 point can be awarded under EQ 9.2. (EQ 09-08) EQ 10.1 No HVAC in Garage Clarification: Multi-family buildings must meet the requirements in EQ 10-09a. Where a diagnostic test showing minimal air flow is not possible, the project team must still fully air seal the AHU closet but verification of the air sealing can be conducted visually by the Green Rater. Clarification: An air handler unit may be not be located in a mechanical closet or room that only opens into the garage unless the following are met: 1) the mechanical closet that holds the AHU is fully isolated from the garage; 2) the mechanical closet is directly connected to the living space or outdoors; 3) the doors to the mechanical closet are sealed and gasketed; 4) the doors to the mechanical closet are either self-closing OR tied to a trigger that prevents the AHU from operating when the doors are open OR clear signage is posted to keep the doors closed at all times and the homeowner or building manager is trained on the importance of keeping garage air out of the mechanical closet; and 5) a 3rd party has verified (using a blower door test) that the mechanical closet has less than 2 Pa of connection to the garage when the house is depressurized to 50 Pa.
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Clarification: If a project has two completely separate HVAC systems (i.e. no shared ductwork, no shared AHU, etc.), one for the garage and one for the home, then it is okay to have the HVAC system that only accommodates the garage located in the garage itself. EQ 10.2 Minimize Pollutants from Garage Correction: Part a-iii to paint garage walls and ceilings - is not required by any project as a condition for earning EQ 10.2. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (EQ 10-13)
Awareness & Education (AE)

AE 1.1 - Basic Operations Training Clarification: It is acceptable to provide the O&M manual in a digital format (e.g. cd or dvd), but tenants should be able to request and receive a printed copy if they are unable to access or read the information in digital format. (AE 01-07) AE 1.2 Enhanced Training Correction: AE 1.2 may only be awarded for training the actual homebuyer or occupant. AE 1.2 may be awarded even if a homebuyer has not yet been identified, but the project team must have a planned training program and it must focus on the actual homebuyer and not just prospective homebuyers. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010.(AE 01-09) AE 1.3 Public Awareness Exemplary Performance: No exemplary performance is available. (AE 01-01) AE 2 Education of Building Manager Clarification: This credit can be awarded to multi-home, single-family developments, but only if there are permanent staff involved with ongoing operations and maintenance. Clarification: This credit cannot be earned by single-family projects. If someone other than the tenant or occupant is responsible for operation and maintenance of the home, that responsible party should be trained as per the requirements of AE 1.1, and credit can be awarded in AE 1.2, not AE 2. (AE 02-01)
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Appendix A: Updates, Corrections, and Interpretations, Organized by Release Date:

Published April 1, 2013, enforced for all projects registered after 4/1/2013:
General Clarification: As a response to growing international interest in residential green building and LEED for Homes, USGBC has launched an international pilot. Project teams outside the United States and Canada may now apply to participate in the international pilot. If selected, project teams will need to coordinate with USGBC and an approved LEED for Homes Green Rater on meeting the program, verification and certification submittal requirements of the LEED for Homes rating system. This process will include determining Alternative Compliance Pathways (ACPs). For more information on the International Pilot and the process for certification please visit usgbc.org. Canadian projects should pursue LEED Canada for Homes, offered by the CAGBC. Any project located in Canada that registered with LEED for Homes prior to the release of LEED Canada for Homes can be certified under LEED for Homes. Home Size Adjuster (HSA) Clarification: Unique residential projects that do not meet the intent of a single family home but are also not being built like a multifamily building, such as fraternity houses and assisted living facilities, may submit a CIR and will be ruled on a case by case basis. Rulings will ensure the HSA is not over-penalizing or over-rewarding projects. Possible rulings include but are not limited to: allowing projects to add common space into the average unit size and then using the multifamily HSA and allowing projects to use a HSA of 0. EQ 10.1 No HVAC in Garage Clarification: Multi-family buildings must meet the requirements in EQ 10-09a. Where a diagnostic test showing minimal air flow is not possible, the project team must still fully air seal the AHU closet but verification of the air sealing can be conducted visually by the Green Rater. Clarification: An air handler unit may be not be located in a mechanical closet or room that only opens into the garage unless the following are met: 1) the mechanical closet that holds the AHU is fully isolated from the garage; 2) the mechanical closet is directly connected to the living space or outdoors; 3) the doors to the mechanical closet are sealed and gasketed; 4) the doors to the mechanical closet are either self-closing OR tied to a trigger that prevents the AHU from operating when the doors are open OR clear signage is posted to keep the doors closed at all times and the homeowner or building manager is trained on the importance of keeping garage air out of the mechanical closet; and 5) a 3rd party has verified (using a blower door test) that the mechanical closet has less than 2 Pa of connection to the garage when the house is depressurized to 50 Pa.
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Clarification: If a project has two completely separate HVAC systems (i.e. no shared ductwork, no shared AHU, etc.), one for the garage and one for the home, then it is okay to have the HVAC system that only accommodates the garage located in the garage itself.
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Published January 1, 2010, enforced for all projects registered after 1/1/2010:
Home Size Adjuster (HSA) Interpretation: When determining the square footage of the home for the HSA, include all directly conditioned space within the thermal boundary, calculated to the exterior wall. Include all normal living spaces and service areas (e.g., garages, utility rooms, closets, entries, crawl spaces, attics, basements) that are within the thermal boundary and meet ANSI Z765 requirements for ceiling height EXCEPT those that are separated from primary living spaces by insulated, weatherstripped doors AND are neither directly heated nor cooled. In the rare case of mild climates where normal living spaces in the home are neither heated nor cooled, include all spaces that are reasonably expected to be used as living areas or are normal adjuncts to living areas, such as closets, utility rooms, entries, etc. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. LL 3.1 / 3.2 Edge Development / Infill Interpretation: LL 3.3 may only be awarded if 75% of the total buildable land for the project was previously developed. This applies to single-family and multi-family projects. If the LEED home is built on the footprint of a previously existing structure, but this footprint comprises less than 75% of the total buildable land, LL 3.3 should not be awarded. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (LL 03-11) LL 6 Access to Open Space Interpretation: The distance requirements must be calculated based on walking distances, not as the bird flies. For example, if a community-based open space is within mile on a map, but requires > mile of walking because of highways or other obstructions, it cannot be counted. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (LL 06-04) SS 2.2 Landscaping Interpretation: The Glossary definition of Conventional Turf refers to considerable watering, mowing, and/or fertilizers. The intent is that any turfgrass that requires routine watering, mowing, or fertilizers should be considered conventional for the purposes of SS 2.3. Even turf identified as drought-tolerant may qualify as conventional for the purposes of SS 2.3. Further guidance on differentiating grasses for LEED for Homes is forthcoming from USGBC. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. Interpretation: For SS 2.5, if a grass has almost no mowing requirements (i.e., does not need to be mowed more than once or twice a year) and has no fertilizer / chemical requirements, the species may be treated as a groundcover in the calculation, which means a species factor (Ks) between 0.2 and 0.7 may be chosen. For all other cases, a species factor (Ks) between 0.6 and 0.8 must be chosen. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. Interpretation: Credits in the SS & WE categories may only be awarded if there is permanent designed landscape. The soil or ground does not need to be native or pre-existing, and may be
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located over a podium or as part of a vegetated roof, but vegetation in planters cannot be used to meet the credit requirements. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. Interpretation: For projects that choose or are only able to install 50% of the designed landscaping, points are available in the following way (credit requirements must be met in order for points to be awarded): Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (SS Gen-25) o SS 3 half credit is available, but all hardscapes must be installed and the hardscapes must meet the requirements through shading of installed vegetation or SRI values; o SS 4.1 - Half credit available. All final hardscapes must be installed, including driveways, walkways, patios, etc. o SS 4.2 - Full credit available, if all relevant erosion control measures are installed. o SS 4.3 - Full credit available, if all relevant stormwater controls are installed. o WE 1 Full credit is available. In the case of WE 1.1 for outdoor applications, the project team must submit a calculation demonstrating that the installed landscaping will need at least as much water as what will be collected for re-use. o WE 2.1 and WE 2.2 Half credit available, based on irrigation measures installed to serve installed landscaping. SS 4.1 Permeable Lot Correction: The calculation for this credit should include all buildable land, not built environment. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (SS 04-19) Interpretation: Non-vegetated natural groundcover (e.g., bare mulch, pine straw) can be used to earn credit SS 4.1, but it must meet the requirements under SS 4.1 part (b). Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (SS 02-34) SS 5 Nontoxic Pest Control Interpretation: A project with a non-cellulosic structure can meet part (a) if all wood, including siding, trim, etc. meet the credit requirements. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (SS 05-20) EA 6.1 Good HVAC Design and Installation Update: To meet EA 6.1(c), programmable thermostats are no longer required to be ENERGY STAR labeled. EA 7.1 Efficient Hot Water Distribution Interpretation: No additional branch length should be allowed for homes with a basement, and a basement should not be considered an additional story for EA 7.1. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (EA 07-32) Interpretation: Basements should not be considered an additional story for EA 7.1 No additional branch length should be allowed for basements. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (EA 07-32) EA 8.3 Advanced Lighting Package
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Interpretation: According to EPA, in multi-family buildings the Advanced Lighting Package only applies to in-unit spaces, not corridor or outdoor public lighting. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (EA 08-22)\ MR 1.5 Off-Site Fabrication Exemplary Performance: Projects that earn MR 1.5 may not be awarded credit for MR 1.2 or MR 1.3. Projects that earn MR 1.5 can earn exemplary performance for incorporating advanced framing strategies into panelized or modular construction. Projects may be awarded as many as 2 points in ID 3 for the following: (MR 01-47) Open-web floor trusses point Stud spacing greater than 16 o.c. point Two of the following point; all four of the following 1 point: o Ceiling joist spacing greater than 16 o.c. o Floor joist spacing greater than 16 o.c. o Roof rafter spacing greater than 16 o.c. o 2 of the following: size headers for actual loads; user ladder blocking or drywall clips; use 2-stud corners MR 2.1 FSC Certified Tropical Wood Interpretation: Finished products that are verified with any of the FSC designations (e.g., FSC Pure, FSC Mixed Source, FSC Mixed Credit, FSC Recycled) can be considered FSC certified for this prerequisite. This is not the case if only part of the finished product is verified with one of the FSC designations. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (MR 02-117; MR 05-15) MR 2.2 Environmentally Preferable Materials Interpretation: Products that are verified as FSC Pure, FSC Mixed Credit, FSC Mixed Source, or FSC Mixed NN% may be treated as FSC certified. Products that are verified as FSC Recycled or FSC Recycled credit earn EPP credit as recycled-content materials. This is not the case if only part of the finished product is verified with one of the FSC designations. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (MR 02-117; MR 05-15) Interpretation: For the component Floor: Flooring, a project can earn credit for low-emissions flooring if a) at least 90% of the flooring is CRI Green Label Plus carpet with CRI Green Label pad, OR b) at least 90% of the flooring is hard surface flooring, OR c) at least 90% of the flooring is a combination of CRI Green Label Plus carpet (with Green Label pad) and hard surface flooring. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (MR 02-72; MR 02-119)
EQ 1 ENERGY STAR with Indoor Air Package Update: LEED for Homes will treat certification under Indoor airPLUS (the USEPAs replacement for Indoor Air Package) as equivalent to certification under the Indoor Air Package: EQ 1 earned with Indoor airPLUS is worth 13 points. Projects registered after June 23, 2009 must use Indoor airPLUS to earn EQ 1. (EQ 01-03)
EQ 4.1 Basic Ventilation Correction: EQ 4.1 references ASHRAE Std. 62.2-2007, but the exemption in part (a) references infiltration degree days, which are not included in Std. 62.2-2007. The only exemptions allowed within LEED for Homes are those listed in ASHRAE Std. 62.2-2007. Homes with fewer than 4,500 infiltration degree days are no longer exempt from the ventilation requirements. The exemptions listed in ASHRAE Std. 62.2-2007 are the following: Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (EQ 04-23) a) buildings in zone 3B or 3C of the IECC 2004/2007 Climate Zone Map; b) buildings with no mechanical cooling that are located in zone 1 or 2 of the IECC 2004/2007 Climate Zone Map; and c) buildings that are thermally conditioned for human occupancy for less than 876 hours per year. EQ 5.2 Enhanced Local Exhaust Interpretation: For EQ 5.2, timers should be set to operate exhaust fans for at least 20 minutes after showering. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (EQ 05-13) EQ 9 Radon Protection Interpretation: Radon-resistant new construction includes five components: 1) gas-permeable layer; 2) heavy-gauge plastic sheeting; 3) sealing and caulking of all penetrations through the concrete slab; 4) vent pipe that exhausts gases to the outside through side wall or roof; and 5) electrical outlet near vent piping. It is not acceptable to cap the exhaust pipe inside the home. This ruling adds to a previous ruling published in the January 15, 2009 Errata & Clarifications document; new aspects of the ruling must be enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (EQ 09-11; EQ 09-16) EQ 10.2 Minimize Pollutants from Garage Correction: Part a-iii to paint garage walls and ceilings - is not required by any project as a condition for earning EQ 10.2. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010. (EQ 10-13) AE 1.2 Enhanced Training Correction: AE 1.2 may only be awarded for training the actual homebuyer or occupant. AE 1.2 may be awarded even if a homebuyer has not yet been identified, but the project team must have a planned training program and it must focus on the actual homebuyer and not just prospective homebuyers. Enforced for all projects registered after January 1, 2010.(AE 01-09)
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Published January 15, 2009, enforced for all projects registered after 1/15/2009:
LL 5 Community Resources / Transit Interpretation: The distance requirements must be calculated based on walking distances, not as the bird flies. For example, if a resource is within mile on a map, but requires > mile of walking because of highways or other obstructions, the resource should not be counted. Enforced for all projects registered after January 15, 2009. SS 3 Local Heat Island Effect Correction: Gray concrete (part ii) is not an acceptable approach to earning this credit unless it is demonstrated to have an SRI of at least 29. Enforced for all projects registered after January 15, 2009. (SS 03-04) EA 8.3 Advanced Lighting Package Correction: The second part of the credit, Install Energy Star labeled lamps in 80% of the fixtures ought to be At least 80% of all lamps in the home must be Energy Star labeled. This may affect the requirement of the credit where fixtures include multiple lamps. Enforced for all projects registered after January 15, 2009.
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Copyright
Copyright 2007 by the U.S. Green Building Council. All rights reserved.
Disclaimer and Notices

The U.S. Green Building Council authorizes you to view the pilot LEED for Homes Green Building Rating System for your individual use and to copy as-is, or in part if you reference the original document. No content may be altered. In exchange for this authorization, you agree to retain all copyright and other proprietary notices contained in the original pilot LEED for Homes Green Building Rating System. You also agree not to sell or modify the pilot LEED for Homes Green Building Rating System or to reproduce, display or distribute the pilot LEED for Homes Green Building Rating System in any way for any public or commercial purpose, including display on a website or in a networked environment. Unauthorized use of the pilot LEED for Homes Green Building Rating System violates copyright, trademark and other laws and is prohibited. All text, graphics, layout and other elements of content contained in the pilot LEED for Homes Green Building Rating System are owned by the U.S. Green Building Council and are protected by copyright under both United States and foreign laws. Also, please note that none of the parties involved in the funding or creation of the pilot LEED for Homes Green Building Rating System, including the U.S. Green Building Council or its members, make any warranty (express or implied) or assume any liability or responsibility, to you or any third parties for the accuracy, completeness, or use of, or reliance on, any information contained in the pilot LEED for Homes Green Building Rating System, or for any injuries, losses or damages (including, without limitation, equitable relief) arising out of such use or reliance. As a condition of use, you covenant not to sue, and agree to waive and release the U.S. Green Building Council and its members from any and all claims, demands and causes of action for any injuries, losses or damages (including, without limitation, equitable relief) that you may now or hereafter have a right to assert against such parties as a result of your use of, or reliance on, the pilot LEED for Homes Green Building Rating System. Please note that the builder (or primary project manager) is solely responsible for choosing LEED for Homes features that are appropriate for the home and for their proper installation. USGBC and its representatives are responsible only for verifying the completion of LEED for Homes requirements as set forth in the LEED for Homes Rating System; such verification in no way constitutes a warranty as to the appropriateness of the selected LEED for Homes measures or the quality of implementation.
Trademark
LEED is a registered trademark of the U.S. Green Building Council.
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Contents
Overview of LEED for Homes ......................................................................................... 4 How to Participate in LEED for Homes ............................................................................ 6 Overview of the Rating System ..................................................................................... 12 Checklist ...................................................................................................................... 16 Home Size Adjustment .................................................................................................. 21 Detailed Explanation of Credits Innovation & Design Process (ID) ..................................................................... 25 Location & Linkages (LL) ................................................................................... 31 Sustainable Sites (SS) ...................................................................................... 39 Water Efficiency (WE)........................................................................................ 52 Energy & Atmosphere (EA)............................................................................... 61 Materials & Resources (MR) .............................................................................. 86 Indoor Environmental Quality (EQ) ................................................................... 96 Awareness & Education (AE) ........................................................................... 112 Abbreviations and Acronyms ....................................................................................... 117 Glossary ...................................................................................................................... 119
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Overview of LEED for Homes

LEED for Homes is an initiative designed to promote the transformation of the mainstream homebuilding industry toward more sustainable practices. LEED for Homes is targeting the top 25% of new homes with best practice environmental features. LEED for Homes is a collaborative initiative that actively works with all sectors of the homebuilding industry. By recognizing sustainable design and construction in homes nationwide, LEED for Homes helps home builders differentiate their homes as some of the best homes in their markets, using a recognized national brand. Furthermore, homebuyers can more readily identify third-party verified green homes. While there are already a number of local or regional green homebuilding programs, LEED for Homes is attempting to provide national consistency in defining the features of a green home and to enable builders anywhere in the country to obtain a green rating on their homes. LEED for Homes represents a consensus standard for green homebuilding developed and refined by a diverse cadre of national experts and experienced green builders. The LEED for Homes Rating System is part of the comprehensive suite of LEED assessment tools offered by USGBC to promote sustainable design, construction, and operations practices in buildings nationwide. The LEED for Homes Rating System measures the overall performance of a home in eight categories: 1. Innovation & Design Process (ID). Special design methods, unique regional credits, measures not currently addressed in the Rating System, and exemplary performance levels. 2. Location & Linkages (LL). The placement of homes in socially and environmentally responsible ways in relation to the larger community. 3. Sustainable Sites (SS). The use of the entire property so as to minimize the projects impact on the site. 4. Water Efficiency (WE). Water-efficient practices, both indoor and outdoor. 5. Energy & Atmosphere (EA). Energy efficiency, particularly in the building envelope and heating and cooling design. 6. Materials & Resources (MR). Efficient utilization of materials, selection of environmentally preferable materials, and minimization of waste during construction. 7. Indoor Environmental Quality (EQ). Improvement of indoor air quality by reducing the creation of and exposure to pollutants. 8. Awareness & Education (AE). The education of homeowner, tenant, and/or building manager about the operation and maintenance of the green features of a LEED home. The LEED for Homes Rating System works by requiring a minimum level of performance through prerequisites, and rewarding improved performance in each of the above categories. The level of performance is indicated by four performance tiers Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum according to the number of points earned (Exhibit 1).
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Exhibit 1 LEED for Homes Certification Levels LEED for Homes Certification Levels Certified Silver Gold Platinum Total available points Number of LEED for Homes points Required 45-59 60-74 75-89 90-136 136
The number of points for each certification level is adjusted for smaller-thanaverage and larger-than-average homes using a mechanism called the Home Size Adjustment. The Rating System guarantees minimum levels of sustainable practice through 18 prerequisites in the eight credit categories. At the same time, projects enjoy flexibility with the wide variety of credits available to achieve certification. Credit Interpretation Requests (CIRs) are also available to projects that seek clarification or special consideration on specific credits.
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How to Participate in LEED for Homes

The strength of the LEED for Homes program is its third-party verification through LEED for Homes Providers and Green Raters. LEED for Homes Providers are local and regional organizations chosen by USGBC to provide certification services to LEED for Homes projects in their local or regional markets. A Provider is selected based on its demonstrated abilities to manage a team of Green Raters. A Provider is under contract to USGBC to perform the following specific services: recruitment and registration of projects for LEED for Homes; coordination and oversight of Green Raters; certification of LEED homes; quality assurance for the certifications; and coordination with USGBC and local USGBC chapters. A Green Rater is an individual who works as a part of the LEED for Homes Provider team (and may be in-house staff or a subcontractor) to perform field inspections and performance testing. Green Raters may work closely with the individual project teams to assist the design and construction professionals in meeting their sustainability goals. Green designers and consultants are also critical members of a project team. One of the primary lessons learned in the pilot is that the success of a green homebuilding project is tied to how effectively the green measures are integrated into the homes design and how well the subcontractors understand how to properly install these green measures. Although the Providers offer verification and certification services for LEED for Homes projects, many builders may need additional support to effectively integrate additional green measures into their home designs, and to ensure that these designs are appropriately constructed by each subcontractor. In recognition of the vital role of these other stakeholders, USGBC is developing an advanced training course for green home designers and consultants. USGBC expects to offer this course beginning in 2008. The LEED for Homes Pilot has been open for participation in locations served by our 12 pilot LEED for Homes Providers. In the short-term, not every project will have local access to a Provider. However, in the coming year, USGBC plans to establish at least one Provider in each state. USGBC intends to establish Green Raters in all markets as quickly as possible. Home builders outside the current service areas may contact the nearest LEED for Homes Provider to discuss participation. An updated list of Providers is maintained on the USGBC web site at www.usgbc.org/leed/homes.
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Four Steps to Participate

There are five basic steps for participating in LEED for Homes: 1. Contact a LEED for Homes Provider and join the program. 2. Identify a project team. 3. Build the home to the stated goals. 4. Certify the project as a LEED home 5. Market and sell the LEED home.
Step 1: Contact a LEED for Homes Provider and join the program
Every participating builder or project manager starts by selecting a LEED for Homes Provider and registering for participation in LEED for Homes. A Provider can offer orientation and up-front technical assistance to builders, although some builders particularly those with experience in green homebuilding may not need these services. Once the builder (or project manager) and the Provider have agreed to work in partnership on the project, both the builder and each project is registered with USGBC.
Step 2: Identify a project team

After registering, the project team that will plan, design and build the home should be identified. The team should include professionals with both knowledge and experience in the eight LEED for Homes credit categories. These professionals work together to develop the project goals, identify potential challenges, and determine how best to contribute to the success of the project. The project team starts by articulating the sustainability goals of the project and determining the specific strategies and systems integration required to meet them. The LEED for Homes Provider or Green Rater will assist the project team with a preliminary rating of the home. This preliminary rating, a detailed review of the homes current design, determines its current scores in the LEED for Homes Rating System. As part of this design review, the following steps should be completed: performance testing of a typical example of builders home design; completion of preliminary project checklist (including suggested additional measures that may be needed to achieve a LEED rating); and a preliminary estimate of the LEED for Homes score and certification level. Depending on the preliminary score, the project team may identify additional green measures to be pursued. To appropriately introduce green measures into the home design, an integrated design approach should be followed. Each change may introduce both expected and unexpected challenges. With an integrated design process, all project team members are given an opportunity to evaluate potential challenges and offer solutions. Design charrettes are often used on large projects to bring together stakeholders with strong interests in the potential impacts of a given project.
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Also, it may be beneficial to bring in consultants who specialize in aspects of green homebuilding that are critical to the specific project.
Step 3: Build the home

LEED for Homes is intended to provide project teams with guidance on both green design and green construction practices. Green homebuilding often requires that the trades learn new ways of doing things. Subcontractors who are new to green construction practices may need to be trained in the different installation practices for certain measures. The builder is encouraged to work with consultants who specialize in training trades. The Green Rater is expected to conduct on-site performance tests and visual inspections of various measures in the home. These tests and inspections are essential to maintaining the rigor and integrity of the program. Typically, two onsite inspections are required for each project; one is conducted during construction of the home, usually just prior to drywall installation, and one is conducted upon completion of the home. The Provider and Green Rater work with the construction team and trades to schedule and complete the inspections. During the construction process, the builder can contact the Green Rater if questions, problems, or changes arise. The Green Rater may need to rescore the project if major changes are made during construction.
Step 4: Certify the home

The certification process for the completed new home involves two components. First is the field inspection and performance testing. The Green Rater conducts a final inspection of the green measures on the projects LEED for Homes checklist and conducts the required performance tests (Exhibit 2). After conducting these inspections and performance tests, the Green Rater completes the project documentation package, which includes the following: o o o completed and signed LEED for Homes checklist; completed and signed Accountability Forms; completed and signed Durability Risk Evaluation Form and durability inspection checklist.
The Green Rater submits this package to the LEED for Homes Provider for review and approval. Exhibit 2 Performance Tests Performance Tests
Category
Responsible Party
Type of Measure
Prerequisite Credit
EA
EQ
Envelope Leakage Duct Leakage HVAC Refrigerant Charge Outdoor Air Flow Local Exhaust Supply Air Flow
Rater Rater HVAC Rater Rater Rater
X X X X X X
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The second component is certification by the LEED for Homes Provider. The Provider reviews the project documentation package submitted by the Green Rater. If it is satisfactory and the home is certified, the Provider notifies the project team and USGBC. USGBC then sends out the official notification and LEED for Homes certificate.
Step 5: Market and sell the LEED home

Builders registered with LEED for Homes may market their LEED certified homes with USGBC-approved press releases, signage, and collateral pieces that highlight the LEED brand. Please contact USGBC for more information. Some projects may be driven by the homebuyer, in which case this step is not relevant.
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Overview of the Rating System

Basic Structure of the Rating System
The LEED for Homes Rating System has 35 topic areas, each with a unique intent or goal. Under the requirements section of each topic area, specific measures are identified that may be included in the home. Typically, these measures are structured as follows: 1.1 Good Practice: usually a prerequisite (i.e., mandatory measure) 1.2 Better Practice: usually worth 1 point 1.3 Best Practice: usually worth 2 points
Prerequisites: Mandatory Measures

Prerequisites are mandatory measures and must be completed during the design of construction phase. There are 18 prerequisite measures in LEED for Homes: Innovation & Design Process (ID) 1.1 Preliminary Rating 2.1 Durability Planning 2.2 Durability Management Sustainable Sites (SS) 1.1 Erosion Controls (During Construction) 2.1 No Invasive Plants Energy & Atmosphere (EA) 1.1 Performance of ENERGY STAR for Homes 11.1 Refrigerant Charge Test Materials & Resources (MR) 1.1 Framing Order Waste Factor Limit 2.1 FSC-Certified Tropical Woods 3.1 Construction Waste Management Planning Indoor Environmental Quality (EQ) 2.1 Basic Combustion Venting Measures 4.1 Basic Outdoor Air Ventilation 5.1 Basic Local Exhaust 6.1 Room by Room Load Calculations 7.1 Good Filters 9.1 Radon-Resistant Construction in High Radon Risk Areas 10.1 No HVAC in Garage Awareness & Education (AE) 1.1 Basic Operations Training
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Credits: Optional Measures

The 67 credits in the Rating System are optional measures. However, a minimum number of points must be earned in some of the credit categories. The credit categories with minimum point requirements are listed in Exhibit 3 and highlighted in gray bars in the LEED for Homes checklist.
Exhibit 3 Prerequisites and Minimum Point Requirements

Credit category
Innovation & Design Process (ID) Location & Linkages (LL) Sustainable Sites (SS) Water Efficiency (WE) Energy & Atmosphere (EA) Materials & Resources (MR) Indoor Environmental Quality (EQ) Awareness & Education (AE) Total
Prerequisites (mandatory) measures

3 0 2 0 2 3 7 1 18
Minimum point requirements

0 0 5 3 0 2 6 0 18
Maximum points available

11 10 22 15 38 16 21 3 136
Special Features of the Rating System

The LEED for Homes Rating System is a set of industry best practices that will help to guide a builder in constructing better homes. The actual performance of the finished home relates directly to the process that the builder and project team use to design and construct the LEED home. The Rating System identifies specific measures that may be incorporated into the design of a home. In fact, a high-performance home has the following attributes: o o o design strategies that result in improved resource efficiency; selection of environmentally responsible and high-performance materials, equipment, and systems; and construction practices that ensure that each of the measures above is installed properly.
A builder should pay close attention all three attributes to ensure a high-quality outcome. One of the early lessons learned in the Pilot is that it is critical to incorporate LEED measures into the homes design at the earliest phase of design. Failure to do so may result in many unexpected challenges, including delays and mistakes. With the basic intent to promote good design, the LEED for Homes Rating System includes the following design-related features.
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Innovation & Design Process category at the front of the Rating System. The Innovation and Design Process category was brought to the front of the LEED for Homes Rating System to highlight the importance of design in a LEED home. Two measures, Integrated Design Process and Durability Planning, are vital parts of the design process. Integrated Design Process credit. The Integrated Design Process (ID 1) topic area requires the builder to participate in a builder orientation and encourages the builder to include the entire design and construction team in regular project meetings. Establishing measurable goals up front and effectively integrating green measures into a homes design will help ensure that the project goals are met. Durability Planning prerequisite. The Durability Planning (ID 2.1) prerequisite requires that the project team address durability explicitly in the home design by assessing durability risk factors and identifying and incorporating specific measures into the homes design to address each factor. Other Design-Related Credits. As explained above, many measures in the Rating System have a substantial design component. These measures are very difficult for the Green Rater to visually verify in the field. Credits that have a significant design component are designated with the symbol in the checklist. The professional who is responsible for each such measure must sign an Accountability Form (see below) to confirm that it has been completed according to the requirements of the Rating System.
Credit Interpretations and Innovative Design Requests

The measures in the LEED for Homes Rating System are worth a total of 136 possible points. Aside from the requirements stated for each credit, there are two alternative methods of acquiring points: Credit Interpretation Requests (CIRs). If a project team identifies an alternative way of achieving the intent of an existing LEED credit, the team can request permission to meet the intent of the credit using an approach that is different from the stated requirements. Innovative Design Requests (IDRs). An innovative design credit is a way of earning extra LEED points outside the established credit categories. These credits are counted in ID 3.1-3.4. There are three ways to earn ID points: o o Implement technologies or strategies that are not included in the Rating System but offer substantial environmental benefits. Implement a regionally appropriate green technology or strategy that is not already addressed in the Rating System, for use within a defined region. Demonstrate exemplary performance by substantially exceeding the requirements in a LEED for Homes credit. Exemplary performance guidelines for various credits are included in the LEED for Homes Reference Guide.
For both kinds of requests (CIRs and IDRs), the project team must submit a formal request to USGBC through the Provider. No points are awarded until USGBC has
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reviewed and approved the request. Both requests are handled according to the following process: 1. Formal request. The Provider submits a project teams request to USGBC. The request or proposal should be structed like a LEED credit; that is, it should include a title, intent, rationale, requirements, and documentation or verification requirements. 2. Preliminary response. After reviewing the Credit Interpretation or Innovative Design Request, USGBC responds to the Provider by indicating that the proposed approach is (a) appropriate and eligible to earn points, (b) ineligible to earn points, or (c) appropriate and likely to earn the desired points with some indicated modifications, such as additional documentation or a higher performance threshold. In case (c), the USGBC ruling is preliminary, subject to the receipt of the indicated modifications from the Provider. 3. Final rating. At the time of the final rating, the Provider can include the credit interpretation or innovative design credit in the final scoring for that LEED home. Both CIRs and IDRs should be submitted during the preliminary rating, and may be submitted only by the Provider on behalf of the project team.
Accountability Forms
Many of the measures in the LEED for Homes Rating System have a substantial design component. These measures are very difficult for the Green Rater to visually verify in the field. If the Green Rater is to fully understand how these measures were installed, it would require a great deal of the Raters time to retrace the design steps. An Accountability Form is intended to shift the responsibility for the verification from the Green Rater to the design professional responsible for a specific LEED for Homes measure. The form is to be signed by the responsible party (e.g., the builder, engineer, architect, landscape professional) who actually completed the design. With this form, he or she formally attests to the completion of the measure and compliance with the requirements. Credits that require an Accountability Form signature are noted on the LEED for Homes checklist by the symbol.
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LEED for Homes Checklist

Project Checklist
LEED for Homes
for Homes
Builder Name: Responsible Party (if different): Home Address (Street/City/State):
Input Values: No of Bedrooms: Floor Area (SF):
Minimum No. of Points Required: Certified: 45 Silver: 60 Gold: 75 Platinum: 90
Detailed information on the measures below are provided in the companion document "LEED for Homes Rating System"
Y / Pts No N/A
Innovation and Design Process

1.1
(ID)
Preliminary Rating Integrated Project Team LEED Accredited Professional
(Minimum of 0 ID Points Required)
Max Points Available 11

Prerequisite
Integrated Project Planning
1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5
1 1 1 1
Prerequisite Prerequisite
Design Charrette Buildling Orientation for Solar Design Durability Management Process Durability Planning; (Pre-Construction) Durability Management Third-Party Durability Inspection Innovative or Regional Design Provide Description and Justification for Specific Measure Provide Description and Justification for Specific Measure Provide Description and Justification for Specific Measure Provide Description and Justification for Specific Measure
2.1 2.2 2.4
3 1 1 1 1 OR LL2-5 LL1 LL1 LL1 LL1 LL1 LL1 LL1 LL1 LL1 10 10 2 1 2 1 1 1 2 3 1 22
Prerequisite
3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4
Sub-Total
Y / Pts No N/A
Location and Linkages

1
(LL)
Site Selection Edge Development Site OR AND/OR Infill Site Previously Developed Site Existing Infrastructure
(Minimum of 0 LL Points Required)
LEED for Neighborhood Development Site Selection Preferred Locations
2 3.1 3.2 3.3 4 5.1 5.2 5.3 6
Infrastructure Community Resources & Public Transit Access to Open Space OR OR
Basic Community Resources / Public Transportation Extensive Community Resources / Public Transportation Outstanding Community Resources / Public Transportation Access to Open Space (Minimum of 5 SS Points Required) Erosion Controls (During Construction) Minimize Disturbed Area of Site No Invasive Plants AND/OR AND/OR OR Basic Landscaping Design Limit Conventional Turf Drought Tolerant Plants Reduce Overall Irrigation Demand by at Least 20% Reduce Local Heat Island Effect Permeable Site Permanent Erosion Controls Management of Run-Off from Roof / Professional Design for Run-Off Management Pest Control Alternatives Average Housing Density OR OR 7 Units / Acre
Sub-Total
Y / Pts No N/A
Sustainable Sites
1.1 1.2
(SS)
OR
Site Stewardship Landscaping
1
Prerequisite
2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 3 4.1 4.2 4.3 5 6.1 6.1 6.3
2 3 2 6 1 4 1 2 2 LL1 LL1 LL1 (Minimum of 3 WE Points Required) OR WE 1.3 WE 1.3 WE 2.3 WE 2.3 2 3 4 15 4 1 3 3 1 4 3 6
Local Heat Island Effect Surface Water Management
Non-Toxic Pest Control Compact Development
Sub-Total
Y / Pts No N/A
Water Efficiency

1.1 1.2 1.3 2.1 2.2 2.3 3.1 3.2
(WE)
Rainwater Harvesting System AND/OR OR
Water Reuse
Grey Water Reuse System Use of Municipal Recycled Water System High Efficiency Irrigation System (Select Measures from List) Third Party Inspection Reduce Overall Irrigation System Demand by at Least 45% High Efficiency Fixtures and Fittings Very High Efficiency Fixtures and Fittings
Irrigation System AND/OR OR Indoor Water Use
Sub-Total
Average Housing Density 10 Units / Acre
Average Housing Density 20 Units / Acre
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Project Checklist (cont'd)

HERS Index Value Achieved: EA 1.2 Pts Achieved: IECC Climate Zone:
Y / Pts No N/A
0.0 OR EA 2-10 38
Prerequisite

1.1 Optimize Energy Performance 1.2
(Minimum of 0 EA Points Required) Meets Performance Requirements of ENERGY STAR for Homes Exceptional Energy Performance Efficient Distribution System Pipe Insulation Refrigerant Charge Test Appropriate HVAC Refrigerant
34 2 1
Prerequisite

Y / Pts No N/A
7.1 Water Heating 7.2 11.1 Refrigerant Management 11.2
1 16
Prerequisite
Sub-Total (or Sub-Total from Adendum A - Prescriptive EA Credits)
Materials and Resources
1.1 Material Efficient Framing 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5
(MR)
(Minimum of 2 MR Points Required) MR 1.5 MR 1.5 MR 1.5
Framing Order Waste Factor Limit Detailed Framing Documents Detailed Cut List and Lumber Order AND/OR Framing Efficiencies (See List of Advanced Framing Techniques) OR Off-Site Fabrication FSC Certified Tropical Woods Environmentally Preferable Products (See Table) Construction Waste Management Planning Construction Waste Reduction (Minimum of 6 IEQ Points Required)
1 1 3 4
Prerequisite
2.1 Environmentally Preferable 2.2 Products 3.1 Waste Management 3.2
8
Prerequisite
3 OR IEQ2-10 IEQ 1 IEQ 1 IEQ 1 IEQ 1 IEQ 1 IEQ 1 21 11

Prerequisite
Sub-Total
Y / Pts No N/A
Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)

1
ENERGY STAR with IAP
Indoor Air Package (IAP) Basic Combustion Venting Measures Enhanced Combustion Venting Measures Moisture Load Control Basic Outdoor Air Ventilation Enhanced Outdoor Air Ventilation Third-Party Performance Testing Basic Local Exhaust Enhanced Local Exhaust Third-Party Performance Testing Room by Room Load Calculations Return Air Flow / Room by Room Controls Third-Party Performance Testing OR OR Good Filters Better Filters Best Filters Seal-Off Ducts During Construction Indoor Contaminant Control Pre-Occupancy Flush Radon Resistant Construction in High Risk Areas Radon Resistant Construction in Moderate Risk Areas No HVAC in Garage Minimize Pollutants from Garage AND/OR Exhaust Fan in Garage OR Detached Garage or No Garage (Minimum of 0 AE Points Required) Basic Operations Training - Occupants Manual and Walkthrough Enhance Training Public Awareness Basic Building Manager's Manual and Walkthrough
2.1 Combustion Venting 2.2
2 1
Prerequisite
Moisture Control
4.1 Outdoor Air Ventilation 4.2 4.3
2 1
Prerequisite
5.1 Local Exhaust 5.2 5.3
1 1 IEQ 1 IEQ 1 IEQ 1 IEQ 1

Prerequisite
6.1 Distribution of Space 6.2 Heating and Cooling 6.3 Heating and Cooling 7.1 Air Filtering 7.2 7.3
1 2
Prerequisite
1 2 IEQ 1 IEQ 1 IEQ 1 IEQ 1 IEQ 1 IEQ 1 IEQ 1 IEQ 1 1 2 1

Prerequisite
8.1 Contaminant Control 8.2 8.3 9.1 Radon Protection 9.2 10.1 Garage Pollutant Protection 10.2 10.3 10.4
1
Prerequisite
2 1 3 3
Prerequisite
Sub-Total
Y / Pts No N/A
Awareness and Education (AE)

1.1 Education for Homeowner 1.2 1.3 2.1 Education for Building Mgrs Sub-Total
and/or Tenants
1 1 1
Project Totals
(pre-certification estimates)
136
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October 9, 2007
Project Checklist, Addendum A

for Homes
Prescriptive Approach for Energy and Atmosphere (EA) Credits
Detailed information on the measures below are provided in the companion document "LEED for Homes Rating System"
Max Points
Available
Y / Pts
No
N/A
2.1 Insulation 2.2 3.1 Air Infiltration 3.2 3.3 4.1 Windows 4.2 4.3 5.1 Duct Tightness 5.2 5.3
(No Minimum Points Required) Basic Insulation Enhanced Insulation
OR EA 1 EA *1 EA 1 EA 1 EA *1 EA 1 EA 1 EA *1 EA 1 EA 1 EA *1 EA 1 EA 1 EA *1
38
Prerequisite
2
Prerequisite
Good Envelope (See Spec's) Better Envelope (See Spec's) OR Best Envelope (See Spec's) Good Windows (See Table) Enhanced Windows (See Table) OR Exceptional Windows (See Table) Reduced Distribution Losses (See Spec's) Greatly Reduced Distribution Losses (See Spec's) OR Minimal Distribution Losses (See Spec's) Good HVAC Design and Installation (see Table) High-Efficiency HVAC (See Table) OR Very High-Efficiency HVAC (See Table) Efficient Distribution System Pipe Insulation Efficient Water Heating Equipment (See Table) ENERGY STAR Lights Improved Lighting OR Advanced Lighting Package High-Efficiency Appliances Very Efficient Clothes Washer Renewable Energy System Refrigerant Charge Test Appropriate HVAC Refrigerants
2 3
Prerequisite
2 3
Prerequisite
2 3
Prerequisite
6.1 Space Heating and Cooling 6.2 6.3 7.1 Water Heating 7.2 7.3 8.1 Lighting
2 4 2 1 3
Prerequisite
EA 1 EA 1 EA 1 EA 1 EA 1 EA 1 EA 1
8.2 8.3 9.1 Appliances 9.2
2 3 2 1 10
Prerequisite
10 Renewable Energy 11.1 Refrigerant Management 11.2
Sub-Total
By affixing my signature below, the undersigned does hereby declare and affirm to the USGBC that the LEED for Homes requirements, as specified in the LEED for Homes Rating System, have been met for the indicated credits and will, if audited, provide the necessary supporting documents.
Responsible Party's Name Signature
Company Date
By affixing my signature below, the undersigned does hereby declare and affirm to the USGBC that the required inspections and performance testing for the LEED for Homes requirements, as specified in the LEED for Homes Rating System, have been completed, and will provide the project documentation file, if requested.
Rater's Name Signature
Company Date
By affixing my signature below, the undersigned does hereby declare and affirm to the USGBC that the required inspections and performance testing for the LEED for Homes requirements, as specified in the LEED for Homes Rating System, have been completed, and will provide the project documentation file, if requested.
Provider's Name Signature
Company Date
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October 9, 2007
Credits in the LEED for Homes Rating System
Innovation & Design (ID) Process.................................................................................. 25 Location & Linkages (LL) .............................................................................................. 31 Sustainable Sites (SS) ................................................................................................. 39 Water Efficiency (WE) .................................................................................................. 52 Energy & Atmosphere (EA) .......................................................................................... 61 Materials & Resources (MR) ........................................................................................ 86 Indoor Environmental Quality (EQ) ............................................................................... 96 Awareness & Education (AE) ..................................................................................... 112
- 17 -
October 9, 2007
HOME SIZE ADJUSTER
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
Home Size Adjustment

The Home Size Adjustment compensates for the overarching effect of home size on resource consumption by adjusting the award level point thresholds (for certified, silver, gold, and platinum) based on home size. The adjustments are based on material and energy impacts as described below under Rationale. The LEED for Homes Checklist automatically makes this adjustment when the home size and number of bedrooms are entered. The effect of the adjustment on award thresholds can also be determined by consulting Exhibits 4-6, as described below under Instructions below. For multifamily buildings, see Home Size Adjustment for Multifamily Buildings that follows.
Instructions
1. Calculate the area of the home in square feet. Follow the calculation method laid out in ANSI Standard Z765, but include all directly conditioned square footage, whether finished or not, that meets building code requirements for living space (e.g., head room, egress, etc.). Determine the number of bedrooms in the home. A bedroom, for purposes of this adjustment, is any room or space that could be used or is intended to be used for sleeping purposes and meets local fire and building code requirements. It is advantageous to count as bedrooms all rooms that meet this definition. When in doubt, consider whether the room in question might be used as a bedroom if another member were added to the household (e.g. new baby, nanny, grandparent, exchange student); if the answer is yes, count the room as a bedroom. If there are 5 or fewer bedrooms, find the size of the home in the appropriate column in Exhibit 4. Read across the row to find the number of points to add or subtract. If the home is larger than the size shown in the bottom row of the applicable column, refer to Exhibit 5 to estimate the threshold adjustment, or to Exhibit 6 to calculate the adjustment. If there are 6 or more bedrooms, use Exhibit 5 and/or Exhibit 6 to calculate the adjustment. Add the adjustment to the number of points needed to earn the desired award level (Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum). A negative adjustment (for homes that are smaller than average) will lower the threshold for each award level (making it easier to reach); positive adjustments will raise the thresholds.
2.
3.
4. 5.
Definition: A bedroom, for purposes of this adjuster, is any room or space that could be used or is intended to be used for sleeping purposes and meets local fire and building code requirements.
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October 9, 2007
HOME SIZE ADJUSTER
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
Exhibit 4 Threshold Adjustment

(point range: -10 to +10)
Maximum home size (ft2) by number of bedrooms

1 Bedroom 610 640 660 680 710 740 770 800 830 860 900 940 970 1010 1050 1090 1130 1180 1220 1270 1320 2 Bedrooms 950 990 1030 1070 1110 1160 1200 1250 1300 1350 1400 1450 1510 1570 1630 1700 1760 1830 1910 1980 2060 3 Bedrooms 1290 1340 1400 1450 1500 1570 1630 1690 1760 1830 1900 1970 2050 2130 2220 2300 2390 2490 2590 2690 2790 4 Bedrooms 1770 1840 1910 1990 2060 2140 2230 2320 2400 2500 2600 2700 2810 2920 3030 3150 3280 3400 3540 3680 3820 5 Bedrooms 1940 2010 2090 2180 2260 2350 2440 2540 2640 2740 2850 2960 3080 3200 3320 3460 3590 3730 3880 4030 4190
Adjustment to award thresholds*

-10 -9 -8 -7 -6 -5 -4 -3 -2 -1 0 (neutral) +1 +2 +3 +4 +5 +6 +7 +8 +-9 +10
For larger homes, or homes with more bedrooms, see below.
Note: As an example, an Adjustment of -5 means that the threshold for a Certified LEED home is 40 points (rather than the 45 points for an averaged sized home). Similarly, Silver would require a minimum of 55 points rather than 60 points; Gold would require a minimum of 70; and Platinum would require a minimum of 85 points.
Exhibit 5 Threshold Adjustment Equation

Threshold adjustment = 18 * log (actual home size / neutral home size) / log (2)
Neutral home size, as used in Exhibit 6, is determined according to the following table: Bedrooms Neutral home 2 size (ft ) 1 900 2 1,400 3 1,900 4 2,600 5 2,850 6 or more 250 ft more for each additional bedroom
2
Note: For homes with more than 5 bedrooms, neutral home size is defined as follows: 2600 + [250 * (number of bedrooms 5)]
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October 9, 2007
HOME SIZE ADJUSTER
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
Exhibit 6 Threshold Adjustment Curves

(point range: -10 and above)
Home size (ft 2)
-10
-5 1,000 0
LEED point adjustment
4,000
7,000
10,000
13,000
10
15
20
25
30
Rationale
All things being otherwise equal, a large home consumes more materials and energy than a small home over its lifecycle (including pre-construction, construction, use, and demolition or deconstruction). The adjustment compensates for these impacts by making it easier or harder to reach each LEED for Homes certification. There is no impact on award thresholds for average-sized homes, whereas thresholds for smaller-than-average homes are lowered and thresholds for larger-than-average homes are raised. Data published by the U.S. Census Bureau in the American Housing Survey for 2005 shows a strong correlation between number of bedrooms and number of occupants. Although a home may serve many different households over its lifespan, in general, a home with more bedrooms will serve more people. The adjustment therefore categorizes homes by the number of bedrooms. The relationship between home size and LEED points is based on estimated energy and materials impacts within the context of the LEED for Homes Rating System. Available published data and informal studies of energy and materials usage in homes reveal two key relationships:
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October 9, 2007
HOME SIZE ADJUSTER
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
A 100% increase in home size yields an increase in annual energy usage of 15% to 50%, depending on the design, location, and occupants of the home. A 100% increase in home size yields an increase in materials usage of 40% to 90%, depending on the design and location of the home.
These data were simplified and generalized to the assumption that as home size doubles, energy consumption increases by roughly one-quarter and material consumption increases by roughly one-half; combined, these amount to an increase in impact of roughly one-third with each doubling in home size. Thus the point adjustment equates to one-third of the points available in the Materials & Resources and Energy & Atmosphere categories combined for each doubling in home size.
Home Size Adjustment for Multifamily Buildings

For each unit type (0, 1, 2, 3 bedroom, etc.), respectively: Weighted Average Home Size Adjustment for Building = [by unit type (adjustment for unit * number of units of that type in project)] total number of units in project where home size adjustment for unit is equal to the point adjustment from Exhibit 4 or Exhibit 6 above, based on the average floor area for all units of that type. Example
1-Bedroom Units Number of Units: Total Floor Area for 1BR Units: Average Area / Unit: Home Size Adjustment (1 bedroom): 2-Bedroom Units Number of Units: Total Floor Area for 2BR Units: Average Area / Unit: Home Size Adjustment (2 bedrooms): 10 8,300 SF 830 SF -2 points
5 7,250 SF 1,450 SF +1 points
Overall Home Size Adjustment Weighted Average Home Size Adjustment = [(1-BR score * 1-BR units) + (2-BR score * 2-BR units)] total units = [(-2 * 10) + (+1 * 5)] / 15 = -1 Thus, the LEED for Homes award thresholds for this multifamily building are Certified, 44 points; Silver, 59 points; Gold, 74 points; and Platinum, 89 points.
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October 9, 2007
INNOVATION AND DESIGN PROCESS
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
Innovation & Design Process (ID)

Pathway through the ID Category
Start
ID Credit 1 Integrated Project Planning Max. Points: 4 Prerequisite: ID 1.1
ID Credit 2 Durability Management Process Max. Points: 3 Prerequisite: ID 2.1 and 2.2
ID Credit 3 Innovative or Regional Design Max. Points: 4
Finish
- 22 -
October 9, 2007

ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
ID 1. Integrated Project Planning

Intent
Maximum points: 4
Maximize opportunities for integrated, cost-effective adoption of green design and construction strategies.
Requirements
Prerequisite 1.1 Preliminary Rating. As early as practical, conduct a preliminary LEED for Homes meeting, with the participation of the Provider and key members of the project team. As part of the meeting, create an action plan that identifies the following: The targeted LEED award level (Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum). The LEED for Homes credits that have been selected to meet the targeted award level. The party accountable for meeting the LEED for Homes requirements for each selected credit.
Credits 1.2 Integrated Project Team (1 point). Assemble and involve a project team to meet the three criteria below: a) Include team members, in addition to the builder and Green Rater, whose capabilities include at least three of the following skill sets: o architecture or residential building design; o mechanical or energy engineering; o building science or performance testing; o green building or sustainable design; and o civil engineering, landscape architecture, habitat restoration, or land-use planning. b) Actively involve all team members referenced above in at least three of the following phases of the home design and construction process: o conceptual or schematic design; o LEED planning; o preliminary design; o energy and envelope systems analysis or design; o design development; o final design, working drawings or specifications; and o construction. c) Conduct meetings with the project team at least monthly to review project status, introduce new team members to project goals, discuss problems encountered, formulate solutions, review responsibilities and identify next steps.
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October 9, 2007

ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
1.3
Professional Credentialed with Respect to LEED for Homes (1 point). At least one principal member of the project team shall be a professional who is credentialed with respect to LEED for Homes as determined by the U.S. Green Building Council. Design Charrette (1 point). No later than the design development phase and preferably during schematic design, conduct at least one full-day integrated design workshop with the project team defined in ID 1.2. Use the workshop to integrate green strategies across all aspects of the building design, drawing on the expertise of all participants. Building Orientation for Solar Design (1 point). Design the home such that all of the following requirements are met: a) The glazing area on the north- and south-facing walls of the building is at least 50% greater than the sum of the glazing area on the east- and west- facing walls. b) The east-west axis of the building is within 15 degrees of due east-west. c) The roof has a minimum of 450 square feet of south-facing area that is oriented appropriately for solar applications. d) At least 90% of the glazing on the south-facing wall is completely shaded (using shading, overhangs, etc.) at noon on June 21 and unshaded at noon on December 21.
1.4
1.5
Synergies and Trade-Offs

This credit is intended to promote an integrated, system-oriented approach to green project design and development. The selected green home-building strategies and technologies in the Rating System should each be fully integrated into a homes design.
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October 9, 2007

Durability Management Process
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ R A
AE
ID 2. Durability Management Process

Intent
Maximum points: 3
Promote durability and high performance of the building enclosure and its components and systems through appropriate design, materials selection, and construction practices.
Requirements
Note: USGBC and its representatives are responsible only for verifying the completion of LEED for Homes requirements; such verification in no way constitutes a warranty as to the appropriateness of the selected durability measures or the quality of implementation (see Disclaimer, page 2).
Prerequisites 2.1 Durability Planning. Prior to construction, the project team shall do the following: a) Complete the Durability Risk Evaluation Form to identify all moderate- and high-risk durability issues for the building enclosure. b) Develop specific measures to respond to those issues. c) Identify and incorporate all the applicable indoor moisture control measures listed in Table 1. d) Incorporate the measures from 2.1(b) and (c), above, into project documents (drawings, specifications, and/or scopes of work, as appropriate). e) List all the durability measures and indicate their locations in the project documents in a durability inspection checklist. Include the checklist in project documents for use in verification. 2.2 Durability Management. During construction, the builder shall have a quality management process in place to ensure installation of the durability measures. This prerequisite can be satisfied by having the builder inspect and check off each measure in the durability inspection checklist created for 2.1(e), above.
Credits 2.3 Third-Party Durability Management Verification (3 points). Have the Green Rater inspect and verify each measure listed in the durability inspection checklist created for 2.1(e), above.
- 25 -
October 9, 2007

Durability Management Process
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ R A
AE
Table 1. Indoor Moisture Control Measures Location or equipment Required moisture control measure Tub, showers, and spa areas Use nonpaper-faced backer board on walls. Kitchen, bathroom, laundry rooms, and Use water-resistant flooring; do not install spa areas carpet. Entryway (within 3 feet of exterior door) Use water-resistant flooring; do not install carpet. Tank water heater in or over living space Install drain and drain pan. Clothes washer in or over living space Install drain and drain pan, or install accessible single-throw supply valve. Conventional clothes dryer Exhaust directly to outdoors. Condensing clothes dryer Install drain and drain pan.

Many of the credits in the LEED for Homes Rating System can serve as durability strategies and may be used in the creation of a durability inspection checklist. If this is done, the home can still receive LEED points for those credits.
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October 9, 2007

Innovative / Regional Design
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA Q
MR EQ AE R AA
ID 3. Innovative or Regional Design

Intent
Maximum points: 4
Minimize the environmental impact of the home by incorporating additional green design and construction measures that have tangible and demonstrable benefits beyond those in the LEED for Homes Rating System.
Requirement
Prerequisites None. Credits 3.1 Innovation 1 (1 point). Prepare a written Innovative Design Request, to be submitted by the LEED for Homes Provider to USGBC, explaining the merits of the proposed measure. This point cannot be counted until LEED for Homes has ruled on the request. All written submittals must contain the following: o the intent of the proposed measure; o the proposed requirement for compliance; o the proposed documentation to demonstrate compliance; and o a description and an estimate of the benefit or impact provided by the proposed measure. Innovation 2 (1 point). Innovation 3 (1 point). Innovation 4 (1 point).
3.2 3.3 3.4

This credit rewards innovative or regional measures that are not addressed elsewhere in the Rating System. A project can also receive 1 LEED point for exceeding the performance requirements of existing credits.
- 27 -
October 9, 2007
LOCATION AND LINKAGES
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
Location & Linkages (LL)

Optional Pathways through the LL Category
Start
LL Credit 1 LEED for Neighborhood Development Max. Points: 10
LL Credit 2 Site Selection Max. Points: 2
LL Credit 3 Preferred Locations Max. Points: 3
LL Credit 4 Infrastructure Max. Points: 1
LL Credit 5 Community Resources Max. Points: 3
LL Credit 6 Access to Open Space Max. Points: 1
Finish
- 28 -
October 9, 2007

LEED for Neighborhood Development
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
LL 1. LEED for Neighborhood Development
Maximum points: 10
Intent
Minimize the environmental impact of land development practices by building homes in LEED for Neighborhood Development certified developments.
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits 1 LEED for Neighborhood Development (10 points). Complete the requirements of the LEED for Neighborhood Development (LEED-ND) certification program.

A project receiving points for LL 1 is not eligible for points under LL 2-6, and vice versa.
- 29 -
October 9, 2007

Site Selection
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R qQ qA
LL 2. Site Selection
Intent
Avoid development on environmentally sensitive sites.
Maximum points: 2
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits 2 Site Selection (2 points). Do not develop buildings, built structures, roads or parking areas on portions of sites that meet any of the following criteria: a) Land whose elevation is at or below the 100-year floodplain as defined by FEMA. b) Land that is specifically identified as habitat for any species on federal or state threatened or endangered lists. c) Land within 100 feet of any water, including wetlands as defined by U.S. Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR, Parts 230233 and Part 22, and isolated wetlands or areas of special concern identified by state or local rule, or land within distances given in applicable state or local regulations, whichever is more stringent. New wetlands constructed as part of stormwater mitigation or other site restoration efforts are exempt from this part of the requirement. d) Land that prior to acquisition for the project was public parkland, unless land of equal or greater value as parkland is accepted in trade by the public landowner (park authority projects are exempt). e) Land that contains prime soils, unique soils, or soils of state significance, as identified in state Natural Resources Conservation Service soil surveys. Verification of soil types should be conducted by the project civil engineer, wetlands engineer, or biologist. If no project team member is qualified to verify this requirement, follow the steps laid out in the LEED for Homes Reference Guide. Sites that are previously developed are exempt from this requirement.

- 30 -
October 9, 2007

Preferred Locations
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA Q
MR EQ AE R AA
LL 3. Preferred Locations
Intent
Maximum points: 3
Encourage the building of LEED homes near or within existing communities.
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits 3.1 Edge Development (1 point). Select a lot such that at least 25% of the perimeter immediately borders previously developed land. In the case of a multihome new development, each home in the development is awarded this point if at least 25% of the development site immediately borders previously developed land.
OR 3.2 Infill (2 points). Select a lot such that at least 75% of the perimeter immediately borders previously developed land. In the case of a multihome new development, each home in the development is awarded these points if at least 75% of the development site immediately borders previously developed land.
AND/OR 3.3 Previously Developed (1 point). Build on a previously developed lot. In the case of a multihome new development, each home in the development is awarded this point if at least 75% of the development site is built on previously developed land.

- 31 -
October 9, 2007

Infrastructure
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
LL 4. Infrastructure
Intent
Maximum points: 1
Encourage the building of LEED homes in developments that are served by or are near existing infrastructure (i.e., sewers and water supply).
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits 4 Existing Infrastructure (1 point). Select a lot that is within mile of existing water service lines and sewer service lines. In the case of a multihome new development, each home in the development is awarded this point if the center of the development site is within mile of existing water service lines and sewer service lines.

- 32 -
October 9, 2007

Community Resources
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
LL 5. Community Resources
Intent
Maximum points: 3
Encourage the building of LEED homes in development patterns that allow for walking, biking, or public transit (thereby minimizing dependency on personal automobiles and their associated environmental impacts).
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits Note: For new multihome developments, the distances below can be measured from the center of the community as long as the distance from the center of the community to the farthest home does not exceed mile. Using this approach, whole communities can qualify for this credit. For any homes farther than mile from the center of the community, distances must be recalculated for each home. 5.1 Basic Community Resources (1 point). Select a site that meets one of the following criteria: a) Located within mile of four basic community resources (Table 2). b) Located within mile of seven basic community resources (Table 2). c) Located within mile of transit services that offer 30 or more transit rides per weekday (combined bus, rail, and ferry).
OR 5.2 Extensive Community Resources (2 points). Select a site that meets one of the following criteria: a) Located within mile of seven basic community resources (Table 2). b) Located within mile of 11 basic community resources (Table 2). c) Located within mile of transit services that offer 60 or more transit rides per weekday (combined bus, rail, and ferry).
OR 5.3 Outstanding Community Resources (3 points). Select a site that meets one of the following criteria: a) Located within mile of 11 basic community resources (Table 2). b) Located within mile of 14 basic community resources (Table 2). c) Located within mile of transit services that offer 125 or more transit rides per weekday (combined bus, rail, and ferry).
Transit rides per weekday are calculated as follows: (1) within a mile radius, count all the transit stops; (2) multiply each transit stop by the number of buses, trains, and ferries that pass through that stop per day; (3) add the total number of rides available at each stop within mile together. Example: if there are 4 bus stops, and at each bus stop the service frequency is half-hourly (48 times per day), the total transit rides per day is 192.
- 33 -
October 9, 2007

Community Resources
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
Table 2. Types of Basic Community Resources

Arts and entertainment center Bank Community or civic center Convenience store Daycare center Fire station Fitness center or gym Laundry or dry cleaner Library Medical or dental office Pharmacy Police station Post office Place of worship Restaurant School Supermarket Other neighborhood-serving retail Other office building or major employment center Note: Up to two of each type of community resource may be counted. For example, two restaurants within mile may be counted as two community resources; four restaurants also count as two.

- 34 -
October 9, 2007

Access to Open Space
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
LL 6. Access to Open Space

Intent
Maximum points: 1
Provide open spaces to encourage walking, physical activity, and time spent outdoors.
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits 6 Access to Open Space (1 point). Select a location within mile of a publicly accessible or community-based open space that is at least acre in size. The open space requirement can be met by either one large open space or two smaller spaces totaling acre.
Note: Open spaces must consist predominantly of softscapes such as soil, grass, shrubs, and trees. These include natural open spaces; city, county, and state parks; play areas; and other community open spaces specifically intended for recreational use. Ponds can be counted as open space if they border a walking or bicycle path. Private lands open to the public for passive recreation are also acceptable provided there is deeded public access or a history of allowable public use and anticipated continued future public use for at least 10 years.

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October 9, 2007
SUSTAINABLE SITES
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
Sustainable Sites (SS)

Pathway through the SS Category
Start
SS Credit 1 Site Stewardship Max. Points: 1 Prerequisite: SS 1.1
SS Credit 2 Landscaping Max. Points: 7 Prerequisite: SS 2.1
Important Note: A minimum of 5 points must be achieved in the SS category
SS Credit 3 Local Heat Island Effect Max. Points: 1
SS Credit 4 Surface Water Management Max. Points: 7
SS Credit 5 Non-Toxic Pest Control Max. Points: 2
SS Credit 6 Compact Development Max. Points: 4
Finish
- 36 -
October 9, 2007
SUSTAINABLE SITES
Site Stewardship
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
SS 1. Site Stewardship
Intent
Maximum points: 1
Minimize long-term environmental damage to the building lot during the construction process.
Requirements
Prerequisites 1.1 Erosion Controls During Construction. Prior to construction, design and plan appropriate erosion control measures. During construction, implement these measures. Erosion control measures must include all of the following: a) Stockpile and protect disturbed topsoil from erosion (for reuse). b) Control the path and velocity of runoff with silt fencing or comparable measures. c) Protect on-site storm sewer inlets, streams, and lakes with straw bales, silt fencing, silt sacks, rock filters, or comparable measures. d) Provide swales to divert surface water from hillsides. e) If soils in a sloped area (i.e., 25%, or 4:1 slope) are disturbed during construction, use tiers, erosion blankets, compost blankets, filter socks and berms, or some comparable approach to keep soil stabilized.
Credits 1.2 Minimize Disturbed Area of Site (1 point). Minimize disturbance to the site by meeting the following: Where the site is not previously developed: a) Develop a tree or plant preservation plan with no-disturbance zones clearly delineated on drawings and on the lot (see Note 1 below). b) Leave undisturbed at least 40% of the buildable lot area, not including area under roof. Only softscapes can be counted toward this credit; projects cannot receive credit for preserving preexisting hardscapes, such as driveways. OR Where the site is previously developed: c) Develop a tree or plant preservation plan with no-disturbance zones clearly delineated on drawings and on the lot (see Note 1 below), and rehabilitate the undisturbed portion of the lot by undoing any previous soil compaction, removing existing invasive plants, and meeting the requirements of SS 2.2 (see Note 2, below). OR d) Build on site with a lot area of less than 1/7 acre, or with housing density for the project that is equal to or greater than 7 units per acre. For multifamily buildings, the average lot size shall be calculated as the total lot size divided by the number of units.
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October 9, 2007
SUSTAINABLE SITES
Site Stewardship
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
Notes: 1. Any no-disturbance zones must also be protected from parked construction vehicles and building material storage. Soils compacted by vehicles or stored materials can cause major difficulties in establishing any new landscaping. 2. Homes that meet SS 2.2 for the entire lot can count points in both this credit and SS 2.2 (for 3 points total). SS 1.2 (d) applies only to the area of the lot not disturbed during construction. SS 2.2 applies to the area of the lot that is disturbed during construction.

SS 4.2 rewards homes for the installation of permanent erosion controls. If the project does not include full landscaping, homeowner association or other rules must require homeowners to have the site fully landscaped within one year; see SS 2. Erosion controls and soil stabilization measures must be robust enough to function until landscaping is in place (i.e., up to one year).
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October 9, 2007
SUSTAINABLE SITES
Landscaping
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
SS 2. Landscaping
Intent
Maximum points: 7
Design landscape features to avoid invasive species and minimize demand for water and synthetic chemicals.
Requirements
Prerequisites 2.1 No Invasive Plants. Introduce no invasive plant species into the landscape. Note: Invasive plant species vary by region. Consult the local Cooperative Extension Service or state agencies. A list of regional resources is available from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, at www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/unitedstates/state.shtml. Not all nonnative species are considered invasive. Credits Note: Points shown below are for homes that are fully landscaped. A project that has not completed the designed landscaping may earn up to 50% of the points for each credit as long as 50% or more of the designed landscaping is completed upon certification. In this case, 100% completion of the landscaping must be required by homeowner association or other rules within a specific time period not to exceed one year after occupancy. Erosion controls and soil stabilization measures must be robust enough to be effective for one year. The builder or project team must also develop a landscaping plan that meets the requirements in SS 2 and provide it to the homeowner. 2.2 Basic Landscape Design (2 points). Meet the following requirements for all designed landscape softscapes: a) Any turf must be drought-tolerant. b) Do not use turf in densely shaded areas. c) Do not use turf in areas with a slope of 25% (i.e., 4:1 slope). d) Add mulch or soil amendments as appropriate. Mulch is defined as a covering placed around plants to reduce erosion and water loss and to help regulate soil temperature. In addition, upon decomposition, organic mulches serve as soil amendments. The type of mulch selected can affect soil pH. e) All compacted soil (e.g., from construction vehicles) must be tilled to at least 6 inches.
AND/OR 2.3 Limit Conventional Turf (maximum 3 points, as specified in Table 3). Limit the use of conventional turf in the designed landscape softscapes.
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October 9, 2007
SUSTAINABLE SITES
Landscaping
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
Table 3. Limited Conventional Turf

Percentage of designed landscape softscape area that is conventional turf 4160% 2140% 20% or less AND/OR Points 1 2 3
2.4
Drought-Tolerant Plants (maximum 2 points, as specified in Table 4). Install drought-tolerant plants.
Table 4. Drought-Tolerant Plants

Percentage of installed plants that are drought-tolerant 4589% 90% or more Points 1 2
OR
2.5
Reduce Overall Irrigation Demand by at Least 20% (maximum 6 points, as specified in Table 5). Design the landscape and irrigation system to reduce overall irrigation water usage. The estimates must be calculated and prepared by a landscape professional, biologist, or other qualified professional using the method outlined below.
Table 5. Reduction in Water Demand

Reduction in estimated irrigation water usage 2024% 2529% 3034% 3539% 4044% 4559% 5054% 5559% 60% or more SS 2.5 points 2 3 4 5 6 6 6 6 6 WE 2.3 points 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 3 4 Total points 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
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October 9, 2007
SUSTAINABLE SITES
Landscaping
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
Method for Calculating Reduction in Irrigation Demand

Step 1. Calculate the baseline irrigation water usage: Baseline Usage = Landscaped Area * ET0 * 0.62 where ETo = Baseline Evapotranspiration Rate (available from local and state Departments of Agriculture)
Step 2. Calculate the design case irrigation water usage: Design Case Usage = (Landscaped Area * ETL IE) * CF * 0.62 where ETL = ET0 * KL and KL = KS * KMC . Refer to Tables 6 and 7 for values for KS and KMC, and to Table 8 for values for IE. For CF, use estimated value based on manufacturers specifications for percentage water savings. Step 3. Calculate the percentage reduction in irrigation water usage: Percentage Reduction = (1 Design Case Usage Baseline Usage) * 100 Step 4. Refer to Table 5, above, to determine points earned.
Table 6. Species Factor

Vegetation type Trees Shrubs Groundcover Turf Low 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.6 Species factor (KS) Average High 0.5 0.9 0.5 0.7 0.5 0.7 0.7 0.8
Table 7. Microclimate Factor

Example microclimate impacts Shading High sun exposure Protection from wind Windy area Microclimate factor (KMC) Low Average High 0.5 0.8 1.0 1.0 1.2 1.5 0.8 0.9 1.0 1.0 1.2 1.5
Table 8. Irrigation Efficiency

Irrigation type Fixed spray Impact and microspray Rotors Multistream rotators Low volume and point source (e.g., drip) Irrigation efficiency (IE) Low High 0.4 0.6 0.5 0.7 0.6 0.8 0.6 0.8 0.7 0.9

U.S. Green Building Council - 41 October 9, 2007
SUSTAINABLE SITES
Landscaping
SS WE ES L A project receiving points in SS 2.5 should also refer to WE 2.3.
ID LL
LL L
EA
MR EQ AE R A
Any measures chosen in SS 2 should be integrated with irrigation system design, which is addressed in WE 2. Rainwater and graywater reuse systems (WE 1) should also be included in landscaping design.
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October 9, 2007
SUSTAINABLE SITES
Local Heat Island Effects
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
SS 3. Local Heat Island Effects

Intent
Design landscape features to reduce local heat island effects.
Maximum points: 1
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits 3 Reduce Local Heat Island Effects (1 point). Do one of the following: a) Locate trees or other plantings to provide shading for at least 50% of sidewalks, patios, and driveways within 50 feet of the home. Shading should be calculated for noon on June 21, when the sun is directly overhead, based on five years growth. b) Install light-colored, high-albedo materials or vegetation for at least 50% of sidewalks, patios, and driveways within 50 feet of the home. Acceptable strategies include the following: i. ii. iii. iv. white concrete; gray concrete; open pavers (counting only the vegetation, not the pavers); and any material with a solar reflectance index (SRI) of at least 29.

Shading hardscapes around the home can reduce irrigation needs as well as temper the homes outdoor environment and reduce cooling loads. Providing shade is addressed in two other credits: EA 1.2 (Exceptional Energy Performance); and SS 4.3(b) and (c) (Vegetated Roof). Locating fences, trees, shrubs or other plantings appropriately can capture or deflect seasonal breezes.
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October 9, 2007
SUSTAINABLE SITES
Surface Water Management
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R AA
SS 4. Surface Water Management

Intent
Maximum points: 7
Design site features to minimize erosion and runoff from the home site.
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits Note: Certain surface water management strategies may be regulated, restricted, or even prohibited by local water authorities or code requirements.
4.1
Permeable Lot (maximum 4 points, as specified in Table 9). Design the lot such that at least 70% of the built environment, not including area under roof, is permeable or designed to capture water runoff for infiltration on-site. Area that can be counted toward the minimum includes the following: a) Vegetative landscape (e.g., grass, trees, shrubs). b) Permeable paving, installed by an experienced professional. Permeable paving must include porous above-ground materials (e.g., open pavers, engineered products) and a 6-inch porous subbase, and the base layer must be designed to ensure proper drainage away from the home. c) Impermeable surfaces that are designed to direct all runoff toward an appropriate permanent infiltration feature (e.g., vegetated swale, on-site rain garden, or rainwater cistern). Permanent Erosion Controls (1 point). Design and install one of the following permanent erosion control measures: a) If portions of the lot are located on a steep slope, reduce long-term runoff effects through use of terracing and retaining walls. OR b) Plant one tree, four 5-gallon shrubs, or 50 square feet of native groundcover per 500 square feet of disturbed lot area (including area under roof).
4.2
4.3
Management of Runoff from Roof (maximum 2 points). Design and install one or more of the following runoff control measures: a) Install permanent stormwater controls (e.g., vegetated swales, on-site rain garden, dry well, or rainwater cistern) designed to manage runoff from the home (1 point). b) Install vegetated roof to cover 50% of the roof area (0.5 point). OR c) Install vegetated roof to cover 100% of the roof area (1 point). d) Have the site designed by a licensed or certified landscape design or engineering professional such that all water runoff from the home is managed through an on-site design element (2 points).
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October 9, 2007
SUSTAINABLE SITES
Surface Water Management
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R AA
Table 9. Permeable Area

Percentage of buildable lot (excluding area under roof) that is permeable 7079% 8089% 9099% 100%
Points 1 2 3 4

SS 1.1 addresses erosion control during construction. Trees, shrubs or groundcover installed for erosion control can be designed as droughttolerant or otherwise preferable; see SS 2 for more information on landscaping. Conventional turf is less permeable than other plantings and consequently less effective at managing runoff.
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October 9, 2007
SUSTAINABLE SITES
Non-Toxic Pest Control
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA Q
MR EQ AE R A
SS 5. Nontoxic Pest Control

Intent
Maximum points: 2
Design home features to minimize the need for poisons for control of insects, rodents, and other pests.
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits 5. Pest Control Alternatives ( point each, maximum 2 points). Implement one or more of the measures below. All physical actions (for pest management practices) must be noted on construction plans. a) Keep all wood (i.e., siding, trim, structure) at least 12 inches above soil (code typically requires 8 inches). b) Seal all external cracks, joints, penetrations, edges, and entry points with caulking. Where openings cannot be caulked or sealed, install rodent- and corrosion-proof screens (e.g., copper or stainless steel mesh). Protect exposed foundation insulation with moisture-resistant, pest-proof cover (e.g., fiber cement board, galvanized insect screen). c) Include no wood-to-concrete connections or separate any exterior wood-toconcrete connections (e.g., at posts, deck supports, stair stringers) with metal or plastic fasteners or dividers. d) Install landscaping such that all parts of mature plants will be at least 24 inches from the home. e) In areas marked moderate to heavy through very heavy on the termite infestation probability map (Figure 1), implement one or more of the following measures ( point each): i) Treat all cellulosic material (e.g., wood framing) with a borate product to a minimum of 3 feet above the foundation. ii) Install a sand or diatomaceous earth barrier. iii) Install a steel mesh barrier termite control system. iv) Install non-toxic termite bait system. v) Use noncellulosic (i.e., not wood or straw) wall structure. vi) Use solid concrete foundation walls or masonry wall with top course of solid block bond beam or concrete-filled block.
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October 9, 2007
SUSTAINABLE SITES
Non-Toxic Pest Control
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA Q
MR EQ AE R A
Figure 1. Termite Infestation Probability Map

Source: Excerpted from the 2000 International Residential Building Code .
TM

Limiting conventional turf and installing native plants (SS 2) can help reduce the need for fertilizers and pesticides that contain toxic chemicals. Keeping plants away from the home makes it unnecessary to irrigate close to the home and risk leaking moisture into the homes foundation. The thermal bypass inspection, required in the EA credit category, addresses cracks, joints and penetrations in the building envelope.
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October 9, 2007
SUSTAINABLE SITE
Compact Development
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA Q
MR EQ AE R A
SS 6. Compact Development
Intent
Maximum points: 4
Make use of compact development patterns to conserve land and promote community livability, transportation efficiency, and walkability.
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits 6.1 Moderate Density (2 points). Build homes with an average housing density of 7 or more dwelling units per acre of buildable land. A single home on 1/7-acre buildable lot qualifies.
OR 6.2 High Density (3 points). Build homes with an average housing density of 10 or more dwelling units per acre of buildable land. A single home on 1/10-acre buildable lot qualifies.
OR 6.3 Very High Density (4 points). Build homes with an average housing density of 20 or more dwelling units per acre of buildable land. A single home on 1/20-acre buildable lot qualifies.
Note: Buildable land area is calculated as follows: o Exclude public streets or public rights of way, land occupied by nonresidential structures, public parks, and land excluded from residential development by law. o For multiple-lot developments, include only the sum of the lot areas for homes being built for LEED for Homes. o The numerator is the number of housing units in the project, and the denominator is the buildable land area included in the project (subject to the above exclustions). Both relate to the project only, not the surrounding area.

SS 1.2 is automatically granted to moderate, high, or very high density homes because of the reduced impact of compact development.
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October 9, 2007
WATER EFFICIENCY
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA Q
MR EQ AE R A
Water Efficiency (WE)

Pathway through the WE Category
Start
WE Credit 1 Water Reuse Max. Points: 5
Important Note: A minimum of 3 points must be achieved in the WE category

WE Credit 2 Irrigation System Max. Points: 4
WE Credit 3 Indoor Water Use Max. Points: 6
Finish
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October 9, 2007
WATER EFFICIENCY
Water Reuse
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA Q
MR EQ AE R A
WE 1. Water Reuse
Intent
Maximum points: 5
Use municipal recycled water, or offset central water supply through the capture and controlled reuse of rainwater and/or graywater.
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits Note: Rainwater and graywater capture systems are subject to local codes and may require special permits. Note that the water quality should meet local standards and consult manufacturers recommendations to determine the compatibility of plumbing fixtures with graywater. Many states and regulatory agencies require that water going into a toilet or sink meet potable water standards; builders should comply with local codes.
1.1
Rainwater Harvesting System (maximum 4 points, as specified in Table 10). Design and install a rainwater harvesting and storage system (including surface runoff and/or roof runoff) for landscape irrigation use or indoor water use. The storage system must be sized to hold all the water from a 1-inch rainfall event (equivalent to 0.62 gallons per square foot of roof area used for capture), taking into consideration the size of the harvest system (i.e., 50% or 75% of total roof area, depending on the measure chosen from Table 10).
AND/OR 1.2 Graywater Reuse System (1 point). Design and install a graywater reuse system for landscape irrigation use (i.e., not a septic system) or indoor water use. The system must include a tank or dosing basin that can be used as part of the irrigation system. Graywater must be collected from at least one of the following: o o o clothes washer; showers; some combination of faucets and other sources estimated to exceed 5,000 gallons per year.
OR 1.3 Use of Municipal Recycled Water System (3 points). Design the plumbing such that irrigation system water demand is supplied by municipal recycled water. This is applicable only in communities with a municipal recycled water program. Note: A home using a municipal recycled water system cannot receive points under WE 1.2 (Graywater Reuse System) or WE 1.1 (Rainwater Harvesting System) for outdoor applications.
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October 9, 2007
WATER EFFICIENCY
Water Reuse
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA Q
MR EQ AE R A
Table 10. Rainwater Harvesting

System size 50% of roof area 50% of roof area 75% of roof area Application Indoor only Outdoor only Both indoor and outdoor Points 2 3 4

A project receiving points for WE 1.3 must skip WE 1.1 and WE 1.2. Rainwater harvesting and graywater reuse irrigation systems should be integrated with resource-efficient landscape (SS 2) and irrigation system design (WE 2).
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October 9, 2007
WATER EFFICIENCY
Irrigation System
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R AA
WE 2. Irrigation System
Intent
Maximum points: 4
Minimize outdoor demand for water through water-efficient irrigation.
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits Note: Points shown below are for irrigation systems installed throughout the designed landscape. If only 50% of the designed landscape includes these measures, then only 50% of the points are available. Even if part of the yard is not landscaped, the irrigation system must be stubbed to that part of the yard, as appropriate.
2.1
High-Efficiency Irrigation System (1 point each, maximum 3 points). Design and install a high-efficiency irrigation system (based on overall landscaping plans, including measures adopted in SS 2) such that any of the following are met: a) Install an irrigation system designed by an EPA Water Sense certified professional. b) Design and install an irrigation system with head-to-head coverage. c) Install a central shut-off valve. d) Install a submeter for the irrigation system. e) Use drip irrigation for at least 50% of landscape planting beds to minimize evaporation. f) Create separate zones for each type of bedding area based on watering needs. g) Install a timer or controller that activates the valves for each watering zone at the best time of day to minimize evaporative losses while maintaining healthy plants and obeying local regulations and water use guidance. h) Install pressure-regulating devices to maintain optimal pressure and prevent misting. i) Utilize high-efficiency nozzles with an average distribution uniformity (DU) of at least 0.70. This may include conventional rotors, multistream rotors, or highefficiency spray heads, but the DU must be verified by manufacturer documentation or third-party tests. A point source (drip) irrigation system should be counted as having a DU of 0.80. j) Check valves in heads. k) Install a moisture sensor controller or rain delay controller. For example, smart" evapotranspiration controllers receive radio, pager, or Internet signals to direct the irrigation system to replace only the moisture that the landscape has lost because of heat, wind, etc.
AND/OR
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October 9, 2007
WATER EFFICIENCY
Irrigation System
2.2
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R AA
Third-Party Inspection (1 point). Perform a third-party inspection of the irrigation system in operation, including observation of all of the following: a) All spray heads are operating and delivering water only to intended zones. b) Any switches or shut-off valves are working properly. c) Any timers or controllers are set properly. d) Any irrigation systems are located at least 2 feet from the home. e) Irrigation spray does not hit the home.
OR 2.3 Reduce Overall Irrigation Demand by at Least 45% (maximum 4 points, as specified in Table 11). Design the landscape and irrigation system to reduce the overall irrigation water demand water budget. The estimates must be calculated and prepared by a landscape professional, biologist, or other qualified professional using the method outlined below. Note: A project must earn full points in SS 2.5 before receiving points for this credit.
Table 11. Reduction in Water Demand

Reduction in estimated irrigation water usage 4549% 5054% 5559% 60% or more WE 2.3 points 1 2 3 4 SS 2.5 points 6 6 6 6 Total points 7 8 9 10
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October 9, 2007
WATER EFFICIENCY
Irrigation System
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R AA
Method for Calculating Reduction in Irrigation Demand

Step 1. Calculate the baseline irrigation water usage: Baseline Usage = Landscaped Area * ET0 * 0.62 where ETo = Baseline Evapotranspiration Rate (available from local and state Departments of Agriculture)
Step 2. Calculate the design case irrigation water usage: Design Case Usage = (Landscaped Area * ETL IE) * CF * 0.62 where ETL = ET0 * KL and KL = KS * KMC . Refer to Tables 12 and 13 for values for KS and KMC, and to Table 14 for values for IE. For CF, use estimated value based on manufacturers specifications for percentage water savings. Step 3. Calculate the percentage reduction in irrigation water usage: Percentage Reduction = (1 Design Case Usage Baseline Usage) * 100 Step 4. Refer to Table 11, above, to determine points earned.
Table 12. Species Factor

Vegetation type Trees Shrubs Groundcover Turf Low 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.6 Species factor (KS) Average High 0.5 0.9 0.5 0.7 0.5 0.7 0.7 0.8
Table 13. Microclimate Factor

Example microclimate impacts Shading High sun exposure Protection from wind Windy area Microclimate factor (KMC) Low Average High 0.5 0.8 1.0 1.0 1.2 1.5 0.8 0.9 1.0 1.0 1.2 1.5
Table 14. Irrigation Efficiency

Irrigation type Fixed spray Impact and microspray Rotors Multistream rotators Low volume and point source (e.g., drip) Irrigation efficiency (IE) Low High 0.4 0.6 0.5 0.7 0.6 0.8 0.6 0.8 0.7 0.9
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October 9, 2007
WATER EFFICIENCY
Irrigation System
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R AA

A project receiving points for WE 2.3 must skip WE 2.1 and 2.2. A project receiving points for WE 2.3 must achieve full points in SS 2.5. This irrigation system design must address all aspects of the landscape design, including any features from SS 2, as well as any rainwater harvesting or graywater reuse system (WE 1).
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October 9, 2007
WATER EFFICIENCY
Indoor Water Use
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R AA
WE 3. Indoor Water Use

Intent
Maximum points: 6
Minimize indoor demand for water through water-efficient fixtures and fittings.
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits Note: Compensating shower valves and conventional, non-compensating shower 3 valves may not work properly when low -flow showerheads (restricting water flow below 2.5 gpm) are installed. Installing low-flow showerheads where compensating valves or conventional, non-compensating valves are installed can increase the risk of scalding (or other types of injuries, such as slips and falls due to thermal shock) when the plumbing system experiences pressure changes. Make sure any low-flow showerhead is installed with a valve that has been designed, tested and verified to function safely at the reduced flow rate. If in doubt, consult the manufacturer of the valve before installing a low-flow showerhead. Please see the LEED for Homes Reference Guide for more information.
1,2
3.1
High-Efficiency Fixtures and Fittings (1 point each, maximum 3 points). Meet one or more of the following requirements by installing high-efficiency (low-flow) fixtures or fittings. A project cannot earn points in both WE 3.1 and WE 3.2 for the same fixture type (e.g., faucet, shower, or toilet). a) The average flow rate for all lavatory faucets must be 2.0 gpm. b) The average flow rate for all showers must be 2.0 gpm per stall. c) The average flow rate for all toilets must be 1.3 gpf OR toilets must be dual-flush and meet the requirements of ASME A112.19.14 OR toilets must meet the U.S. EPA WaterSense specification and be certified and labeled accordingly. Very High Efficiency Fixtures and Fittings (2 points each, maximum 6 points). Meet one or more of the following requirements by installing very high efficiency fixtures or fittings. A project cannot earn points in both WE 3.1 and WE 3.2 for the same fixture type (e.g., faucet, shower, or toilet). a) The average flow rate for all lavatory faucets must be 1.5 gpm OR lavatory faucets must meet the U.S. EPA WaterSense specification and be certified and labeled accordingly. b) The average flow rate for all showers must be 1.75 gpm per stall. c) The average flow rate for all toilets must be 1.1 gpf.
3.2
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October 9, 2007
WATER EFFICIENCY
Indoor Water Use
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R AA

Indoor water savings also can be achieved with more efficient water distribution systems and appliances. Points for indoor water distribution-related savings are available under EA 7.1, and points for appliance-related water savings are available under EA 9. Low-flow showerheads and faucets will reduce demand for hot water and resulting energy use for water heating. Credits in EA 7 address water heating efficiency.
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October 9, 2007
ENERGY AND ATMOSPHERE
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA Q
MR EQ AE R A
Energy & Atmosphere (EA)

Optional Pathways through the EA Category
Start
EA Credit 1: Optimize Energy Performance Max. Points: 34 Prerequisite: EA 1.1
EA Credit 2: Insulation Max. Points: 2 Prerequisite: EA 2.1 EA Credit 3: Air Infiltration Max. Points: 3 Prerequisite: EA 3.1 EA Credit 4: Windows Max. Points: 3 Prerequisite: EA 4.1 EA Credit 5: Duct Tightness Max. Points: 3 Prerequisite: EA 5.1 EA Credit 6: Space Heating and Cooling Max. Points: 4 Prerequisite: EA 6.1
EA Credit 7.1: Domestic Hot Water Distribution System Max. Points: 2
EA Credit 7: Domestic Hot Water Max. Points: 6
EA Credit 7.2: Domestic Hot Water Pipe Insulation Max. Points: 1
EA Credit 8: Lighting Max. Points: 3
EA Credit 9: Appliances Max. Points: 3
EA Credit 10: Renewable Energy Max. Points: 10
EA Credit 11: Refrigerant Management Max. Points: 1 Prerequisite: EA 2.1
Finish
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October 9, 2007

Optimize Energy Performance
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA Q
MR EQ AE R A
EA 1. Optimize Energy Performance

Intent
Maximum points: 34
Improve the overall energy performance of a home by meeting or exceeding the performance of an ENERGY STAR labeled home.
Requirements
Prerequisites 1.1 Performance of ENERGY STAR for Homes. Meet the performance requirements of ENERGY STAR for Homes, including third-party inspections.
Credits 1.2 Exceptional Energy Performance (maximum 34 points). Exceed the performance of ENERGY STAR for Homes. Use the equations below relating the Home Energy Standards (HERS) Index to the appropriate number of LEED points.
Equation:
South LEED Pts ={ [ Log (100 - HERS Index) ] / 0.024 } - 48.3 North LEED Pts = { [ Log (100 - HERS Index) ] / .021 } - 60.8
Table 15. HERS Index and LEED Points
IECC Climate Zones 1-5

HERS Index 100 95 90 85 84 83 82 81 80 79 78 77 Percent Above IECC 2004 0 5 10 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 LEED for Homes Points HERS Index 100 95 90 85 84 83 82 81 80 79 78 77

Percent Above IECC 2004 0 5 10 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 LEED for Homes Points
2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0 6.0 7.0 7.5 8.5
2.0 3.0 4.0
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October 9, 2007

ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA Q
MR EQ AE R A
Table 15, continued

HERS Index 76 75 74 73 72 71 70 69 68 67 66 65 64 63 62 61 60 55 50 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 Percent Above IECC 2004 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 100 LEED for Homes Points 9.0 10.0 10.5 11.5 12.0 12.5 13.0 14.0 14.5 15.0 15.5 16.0 16.5 17.0 17.5 18.0 18.5 20.5 22.5 24.2 26.0 27.0 28.5 30.0 31.0 32.0 33.0 33.5 34.0 HERS Index 76 75 74 73 72 71 70 69 68 67 66 65 64 63 62 61 60 55 50 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0

Percent Above IECC 2004 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 100 LEED for Homes Points 5.0 6.0 6.5 7.5 8.0 9.0 9.5 10.0 11.0 11.5 12.0 12.5 13.5 14.0 14.5 15.0 15.5 18.0 20.0 22.0 24.0 25.5 27.0 28.5 30.0 31.0 32.0 33.0 34.0
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October 9, 2007

ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA Q
MR EQ AE R A
Figure 2. HERS Index Values and LEED Points
40.0 35.0 30.0
LEED Points.
25.0 20.0 15.0 10.0 5.0 0.0 100
80
60
40
20
HERS Index

A project receiving points for this credit must skip credits EA 26, 7.3 and 810. Passive solar designs must be modeled and can take credit using the approach laid out in EA 1. Shading and the reduction of local heat island effects (SS 3) can reduce energy demands for space cooling. Similarly, vegetated roofs (SS 4.3) can reduce both space heating and cooling loads. High-efficiency appliances and fixtures (WE 3) can reduce hot water demand. Reduced framing (MR 1) can allow for more insulation and fewer thermal breaks. Proper design and verification of space heating and cooling distribution systems (EQ 6) can help provide thermal comfort with minimized waste. In hot and humid climates, effective dehumidification (EQ 3) can significantly reduce cooling loads.
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October 9, 2007

Insulation
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA Q
MR EQ AE R A
EA 2. Insulation
Intent
Maximum points: 2
Design and install insulation to minimize heat transfer and thermal bridging.
Requirements
Prerequisites 2.1 Basic Insulation. Meet all the following requirements: a) Install insulation that meets or exceeds the R-value requirements listed in Chapter 4 of the 2004 International Energy Conservation Code. Alternative wall and insulation systems, such as structural insulated panels (SIPs) and insulated concrete forms (ICFs), must demonstrate a comparable R-value, but thermal mass or infiltration effects cannot be included in the R-value calculation. b) Install insulation to meet the Grade II specifications set by the National Home Energy Rating Standards (Table 16). Installation must be verified by an energy rater or Green Rater conducting a predrywall thermal bypass inspection, as summarized in Figure 3. Note: For any portion of the home constructed with SIPs or ICFs, the rater must conduct a modified visual inspection using the ENERGY STAR Structural Insulated Panel Visual Inspection Form. Credits 2.2 Enhanced Insulation (2 points). Meet the following requirements: a) Install insulation that exceeds the R-value requirements listed in Chapter 4 of the 2004 International Energy Conservation Code by at least 5%. Alternative wall and insulation systems, such as structural insulated panels (SIPs) and insulated concrete forms (ICFs), must demonstrate a comparable R-value, but thermal mass or infiltration effects cannot be included in the R-value calculation. b) Install insulation to meet the Grade I specifications set by the National Home Energy Rating Standards (Table 16). Installation must be verified by an energy rater or Green Rater conducting a predrywall thermal bypass inspection as summarized in Figure 3. Note: For any portion of the home constructed with SIPs or ICFs, the rater must conduct a modified visual inspection, using the ENERGY STAR Structural Insulated Panel Visual Inspection Form.
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October 9, 2007

Insulation
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R AA
Table 16. Summary of HERS Installation Grades

Please refer to Adopted Enhancements to the Mortgage Industry National Home Energy Rating Standards, available from RESNET, for a more detailed description Grade
I II
Description Meet the requirements of Grade II (below), but allow only very small gaps, and compression or incomplete fill amounts to 2% or less. Moderate to frequent installation defects, gaps around wiring, electric outlets, etc. and incomplete fill amounts to 10% of less. Gaps running clear through the insulation amount to no more than 2% of the total surface area covered by the insulation. Wall insulation is enclosed on all six sides and in substantial contact with the sheathing material on at least one side (interior or exterior) of the cavity.

A project receiving points for EA 1 is not eligible for this credit, and vice versa. A project pursuing this credit must follow the prescriptive pathway and all of the associated prerequisites in EA 210. Prerequisite EA 1.1 should be skipped. See the pathway schematic at the beginning of the EA section. MR 1.2 - 1.5 address framing efficiency. Efficient framing can create additional spacing in wall cavities, reducing thermal breaks and insulation compaction. Environmentally preferable insulation is awarded in MR 2.2.
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October 9, 2007

Insulation
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R AA
Figure 3. ENERGY STAR Thermal Bypass Inspection Checklist
- 64 -
October 9, 2007

Air Infiltration
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
EA 3. Air Infiltration
Intent
Maximum points: 3
Minimize energy consumption caused by uncontrolled air leakage into and out of conditioned spaces.
Requirements
Prerequisites 3.1 Reduced Envelope Leakage. Meet the air leakage requirements shown in Table 17. The air leakage rate must be tested and verified by an energy rater.
Credits 3.2 Greatly Reduced Envelope Leakage (2 points). Meet the air leakage requirements shown in Table 17. The air leakage rate must be tested and verified by an energy rater.
OR 3.3 Minimal Envelope Leakage (3 points). Meet the air leakage requirements shown in Table 17. The air leakage rate must be tested and verified by an energy rater.
Table 17. Air Leakage Requirements

Performance requirements (in ACH50) IECC IECC IECC IECC Climate Climate Climate Climate Zones Zones Zones Zone 1-2 3-4 5-7 8 7.0 5.0 3.0 6.0 4.25 2.5 5.0 3.5 2.0 4.0 2.75 1.5
LEED Criteria EA 3.1: Reduced Envelope Leakage (mandatory) EA 3.2: Greatly Reduced Envelope Leakage (optional) EA 3.3: Minimal Envelope Leakage (optional)

A project receiving points for EA 1 is not eligible for this credit, and vice versa. A project pursuing this credit must follow the prescriptive pathway and meet all the prerequisites in EA 210. Prerequisite EA 1.1 should be skipped. See the pathway schematic at the beginning of the EA section. Natural air leakage through the envelope contributes to the overall ventilation rate of the home. From a health perspective, it is important to not underventilate a home. From an energy perspective, it is also important not to overventilate. EQ 4 addresses the balance between mechanical and natural ventilation.
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October 9, 2007

Windows
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
EA 4. Windows
Intent
Maximize the energy performance of windows.
Maximum points: 3
Requirements
Prerequisites 4.1 Good Windows. Meet all the following requirements: a) Design and install windows and glass doors that have NFRC ratings that meet or exceed the window requirements of the ENERGY STAR for Homes national Builder Option Package (Table 18). b) The ratio of skylight glazing to conditioned floor area may not exceed 3%. All skylights must meet the ENERGY STAR performance requirements for skylights, but are exempt from the requirements in Table 18. c) Homes in the North or North/Central climate zones that have a total window-tofloor area ratio (WFA) of 18% or more must meet a more stringent U-factor requirement (also applicable to EA 4.2 and 4.3): U-factor = [0.18 / WFA] * [U-factor from Table 18] d) Homes in the South or South/Central climate zones that have a total window-tofloor area ratio (WFA) of 18% or more must meet a more stringent solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) requirement (also applicable to EA 4.2 and 4.3): SHGC = [0.18 / WFA] * [SHGC from Table 18] Note: Up to 0.75% of the window-to-floor area may be used for decorative glass or skylight area that does not meet the U-factor and SHGC requirements above. Credits 4.2 Enhanced Windows (2 points). Design and install windows and glass doors that have NFRC ratings that exceed the window requirements in the ENERGY STAR for Homes national Builder Option Package (Table 18).
1
OR 4.3 Exceptional Windows (3 points). Design and install windows and glass doors that have NFRC ratings that substantially exceed the window requirements in the ENERGY STAR for Homes national Builder Option Package (Table 18).
For example, a home with 2,000 square feet of conditioned floor area may not have more than 60 square feet of skylight glazing.
- 66 -
October 9, 2007

Windows
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
Table 18. ENERGY STAR Requirements for Windows and Glass Doors
ENERGY STAR zone North South Central Central 0.40 0.40 0.45 0.40 0.35 0.40 0.32 0.40 0.35 0.35 0.32 0.30
EA 4.1: Good Windows (prerequisite) EA 4.2: Enhanced Windows (optional, 2 points) EA 4.3: Exceptional Windows (optional, 3 points)
Metric U-factor SHGC U-factor SHGC U-factor SHGC
Northern 0.35 Any 0.31 Any 0.28 Any
Southern 0.55 0.35 0.55 0.33 0.55 0.30
Figure 4. Zones for Window Specifications

A project receiving points for EA 1 is not eligible for this credit, and vice versa. A project pursuing this credit must follow the prescriptive pathway and meet all of the prerequisites in EA 210. Prerequisite EA 1.1 should be skipped. See the pathway schematic at the beginning of the EA section. Improving the window performance may also reduce heating and/or cooling loads and the energy associated with operating heating and cooling equipment.
- 67 -
October 9, 2007

Heating and Cooling Distribution System
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA Q
MR EQ AE R A
EA 5. Heating and Cooling Distribution System

Intent
Maximum points: 3
Minimize energy consumption due to thermal bridges and/or leaks in the heating and cooling distribution system.
Requirements
A. Forced-Air Systems
Prerequisites 5.1 Reduced Distribution Losses. Meet the following requirements: a) Limit duct air leakage rate to outside the conditioned envelope. The tested duct leakage rate must be 4.0 cfm at 25 Pascals per 100 square feet of conditioned floor area (for each installed system), verified by the energy rater. Testing is waived if the home meets EA 5.3 (b) or (c). b) Do not install ducts in exterior walls unless extra insulation is added to maintain the overall UA for an exterior wall without ducts. Ducts may be run inside interior wall cavities but must be fully ducted (i.e., do not use the wall cavity as the duct). c) Use at least R-6 insulation around ducts in unconditioned spaces. Credits 5.2 Greatly Reduced Distribution Losses (2 points). Limit duct air leakage to outside the conditioned envelope. The tested duct leakage rate must be 3.0 cfm at 25 Pascals per 100 square feet of conditioned floor area (for each installed system), verified by the energy rater.
OR 5.3 Minimal Distribution Losses (3 points). Meet one of the following requirements: a) Limit duct air leakage to outside the conditioned envelope. The tested duct leakage rate must be 1.0 cfm at 25 Pascals per 100 square feet of conditioned floor area, verified by the energy rater. b) Locate the air-handler unit and all ductwork within the conditioned envelope and minimize envelope leakage (i.e., meet the requirements of EA 3.3). c) Locate the air-handler unit and all ductwork visibly within conditioned spaces (i.e., no ductwork hidden in walls, chases, floors, or ceilings).
B. Nonducted HVAC Systems (e.g., Hydronic Systems)

Prerequisites 5.1 Reduced Distribution Losses. Use at least R-3 insulation around distribution pipes in unconditioned spaces.
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October 9, 2007

Heating and Cooling Distribution System
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA Q
MR EQ AE R A
Credits 5.2 5.3 Greatly Reduced Distribution Losses (2 points). Keep the system (including boiler and distribution pipes) entirely within the conditioned envelope. Minimal Distribution Losses (1 point). Install outdoor reset control (i.e., controls that modulate distribution water temperature based on outdoor air temperature).

A project receiving points for EA 1.2 is not eligible for this credit, and vice versa. A project pursuing this credit must follow the prescriptive pathway and meet all of the prerequisites in EA 210. Prerequisite EA 1.1 should be skipped. See the pathway schematic at the beginning of the EA section. EQ 6 requires proper duct design to ensure adequate air flow and includes credit for testing air flow into each room. MR 1.21.5 address framing efficiency. HVAC and framing efficiency are closely linked; floor, ceiling, and roof framing layouts should be designed to use framing material efficiently and at the same time accommodate duct runs as efficiently as possible. Addressing both simultaneously provides an opportunity to achieve multiple resource efficiencies through one design exercise. EQ prerequisite 10 prohibits the placement of ductwork in the garage.
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October 9, 2007

Space Heating and Cooling
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
EA 6. Space Heating and Cooling Equipment

Intent
Maximum points: 4
Reduce energy consumption associated with the heating and cooling system.
Requirements
Note: Both the space heating and the space cooling equipment must meet the requirements of this credit. If only one type of equipment qualifies, then half the points should be taken. Homes built without air-conditioning should be modeled under EA 1, using the default (minimum efficiency allowed) in both the reference and the rated homes. Prerequisites 6.1 Good HVAC Design and Installation. Meet each of the following requirements: a) Design and size HVAC equipment properly using ACCA Manual J, the ASHRAE 2001 Handbook of Fundamentals or an equivalent computation procedure. b) Install HVAC equipment that meets the requirements of the ENERGY STAR for Homes national Builder Option Package (Table 19). c) Install ENERGY STAR labeled programmable thermostat (except heat pumps and hydronic systems). Credits 6.2 High-Efficiency HVAC (2 points). Design and install HVAC equipment that is better than the equipment required by the ENERGY STAR Builder Option Package (Table 19).
OR 6.3 Very High Efficiency HVAC (maximum 4 points). Design and install HVAC equipment that is substantially better than the equipment required by the ENERGY STAR Builder Option Package (Table 19). Any piping designed as part of a heat pump system to carry water that is well above (or below) the thermostatic temperature settings in the home must have R-4 insulation or greater. Note: The maximum of 4 points is available only if a heat pump is installed. Furnace and boiler systems can earn a maximum of 3 points.

A project receiving points for EA 1 is not eliglble for this credit, and vice versa. A project pursuing this credit must follow the prescriptive pathway and meet all of the prerequisites in EA 210. Prerequisite EA 1.1 should be skipped. See the pathway schematic at the beginning of the EA section. Substantial energy savings can be achieved by using heat recovery equipment. Heat or energy recovery systems are rewarded in EQ 4.2. EQ 10 prohibits the placement of the air handler unit in the garage. EA 11 requires a refrigerant charge test and encourages the selection of preferred refrigerants.
- 70 -
October 9, 2007

Space Heating and Cooling
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA MR EQ Q R A
AE
Table 19(a). HVAC Requirements for IECC Climate Zones 48.

HVAC equipment Central AC and air source heat pumps 13 SEER 8.2 HSPF 14 SEER 8.6 HSPF 15 SEER 9.0 HSPF Ground-source heat pumps Furnaces (gas, oil or propane) 90 AFUE 92 AFUE 94 AFUE* Boilers (gas, oil or propane) 85 AFUE 87 AFUE 90 AFUE Open loop 16.2 EER 3.6 COP 17.8 EER 4.0 COP 19.4 EER 4.3 COP Closed loop 14.1 EER 3.3 COP 15.5 EER 3.6 COP 17 EER 4.0 COP Direct expansion 15 EER 3.5 COP 16.5 EER 3.9 COP 18 EER 4.2 COP
End use EA 6.1: Good HVAC Design and Installation (prerequisite) EA 6.2: High-Efficiency HVAC (2 points) EA 6.3: Very High Efficiency HVAC (heat pump, 4 points; other systems, 3 points) * Furnace with low electric energy use. Cooling Heating Cooling Heating Cooling Heating
Table 19(b). HVAC Requirements for IECC Climate Zones 13.

HVAC equipment Central AC and air source heat pumps 14 SEER 8.2 HSPF 15 SEER 8.6 HSPF 16 SEER 9.0 HSPF Ground-source heat pumps Furnaces (gas, oil or propane) 80 AFUE 90 AFUE 92 AFUE* Boilers (gas, oil or propane) 80 AFUE 85 AFUE 87 AFUE Open loop 16.2 EER 3.6 COP 17.8 EER 4.0 COP 19.4 EER 4.3 COP Closed loop 14.1 EER 3.3 COP 15.5 EER 3.6 COP 17 EER 4.0 COP Direct expansion 15 EER 3.5 COP 16.5 EER 3.9 COP 18 EER 4.2 COP
End use EA 6.1: Good HVAC Design and Installation (prerequisite) EA 6.2: High-Efficiency HVAC (2 points) EA 6.3: Very High Efficiency HVAC (heat pump, 4 points; other systems, 3 points) * Furnace with low electric energy use. Cooling Heating Cooling Heating Cooling Heating
US Green Building Council
Page 71
June 2007

Water Heating
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
EA 7. Water Heating
Intent
Maximum points: 6
Reduce energy consumption associated with the domestic hot water system, including improving the efficiency of both the hot water system design and the layout of the fixtures in the home.
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits 7.1 Efficient Hot Water Distribution (2 points). Design and install an energy-efficient hot water distribution system (see Figure 5). None of the branch length requirements below apply to cold water demand loads (e.g., toilets), washing machines, or tubs without showerheads. Select one of the following designs: a) Structured plumbing system. The system must meet all of the following: i. The system must have a demand-controlled circulation loop that is insulated to at least R-4. ii. The total length of the circulation loop must be less than 40 linear feet of plumbing in one-story homes. Add 2x the ceiling height for two-story homes, and add 4x the ceiling height for three- or fourstory homes. iii. Branch lines from the loop to each fixture must be 10 feet long and a maximum of -inch nominal diameter. iv. The system must be designed with a push button control in each full bathroom and the kitchen and an automatic pump shut-off. b) Central manifold distribution system. The system must meet all of the following: i. The central manifold trunk must be no more than 6 feet in length. ii. The central manifold trunk must be insulated to at least R-4. iii. No branch line from the central manifold to any fixtures may exceed 20 feet in one-story homes. Add 1x the ceiling height for two-story homes, and add 2x the ceiling height for three- or four-story homes. iv. Branch lines from the manifold must be a maximum of -inch nominal diameter. c) Compact design of conventional system. The system must meet all of the following: i. No branch line from the water heater to any fixtures may exceed 20 feet in one-story homes. Add 1x the ceiling height for two-story homes, and add 2x the ceiling height for three- or four-story homes. ii. Branch lines from the central header to each fixture must be a maximum of -inch nominal diameter.
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June 2007

Water Heating
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
7.2
Pipe Insulation (1 point). All domestic hot water piping shall have R-4 insulation. Insulation shall be properly installed on all piping elbows to adequately insulate the 90-degree bend. Efficient Domestic Hot Water (DHW) Equipment (maximum 3 points). Design and install energy-efficient water heating equipment. Select one measure from Table 20 below.
7.3
Figure 5(a). Sample Schematic of a Structured Plumbing System
Water Heater
Recirculating Pump
All branches from the recirculation loop to the fixture must be 10 feet and max diameter.
Figure 5(b). Sample Schematic of a Central Manifold Distribution System

Water Heater Trunk must be 6 feet from water heater and insulated to R4 Home must have a tight plumbing core, with branches that are limited in length (see credit) and max diameter
Page 73
June 2007

Water Heating
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
Figure 5(c). Sample Schematic of a Compact Design

Water Heater Home must have a tight plumbing core, with branches that are limited in length (see credit) and max diameter
Table 20. High-Efficiency Water Heating Equipment

Water heater type and efficiency requirement Description Points Gas water heaters EF 0.53 (80 gallon) High-efficiency storage water heater 1 EF 0.57 (60 gallon) High-efficiency storage water heater 1 EF 0.61 (40 gallon) High-efficiency storage water heater 1 Storage or tankless water heater EF 0.8 2 CAE 0.8 Combination water and space heaters 2 Electric water heaters EF 0.89 (80 gallon) High-efficiency storage water heater 1 EF 0.92 (50 gallon) High-efficiency storage water heater 1 EF 0.93 (40 gallon) High-efficiency storage water heater 1 EF 0.99 Tankless water heater 2 EF 2.0 Heat pump water heater 3 Solar water heaters (backup) 40% of annual DHW load With preheat tank 2 60% of annual DHW load With preheat tank 3 EF = Energy factor. Energy factors for equipment from various manufacturers are available at http://www.gamanet.org/gama/inforesources.nsf/vContentEntries/Product+Directories. CAE = Combined annual efficiency.

A project receiving points for EA 1 is not eliglble for EA 7.3, and vice versa. A project pursuing EA 7.3 must follow the prescriptive pathway and meet all of the prerequisites in EA 210. Prerequisite EA 1.1 should be skipped. See the pathway schematic at the beginning of the EA section. EA 7.1 and 7.2 are available to every project, whether the performance approach (EA 1) or the prescriptive approach (EA 210) is used. Low-flow showerheads and faucets may also reduce demand for hot water and resulting energy use for water heating. Points for installing low-flow showerheads are available under WE 3. Additional reductions in hot water energy use achieved through efficient appliances are addressed in EA 9.
Page 74
June 2007

Lighting
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
EA 8. Lighting
Intent
Maximum points: 3
Reduce energy consumption associated with interior and exterior lighting.
Requirements
Prerequisites 8.1 ENERGY STAR Lights. Install at least four ENERGY STAR labeled light fixtures or ENERGY STAR labeled compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) in high-use rooms (kitchen, dining room, living room, family room, hallways).
Credits 8.2 Improved Lighting (1.5 maximum points). Select and install one or both of the following measures: a) Indoor lighting (0.5 points). Install three additional ENERGY STAR labeled light fixtures or ENERGY STAR labeled compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) in high-use rooms. These are in addition to the four ENERGY STAR lights required by EA 8.1. b) Exterior lighting (1 point). All exterior lighting must have either motion sensor controls or integrated photovoltaic cells. The following lighting is exempt: emergency lighting; lighting required by code for health and safety purposes; and lighting used for eye adaptation near covered vehicle entrances or exits.
OR 8.3 Advanced Lighting Package (3 points). Install ENERGY STAR Advanced Lighting Package using only ENERGY STAR labeled fixtures. The Advanced Lighting Package consists of a minimum of 60% ENERGY STAR qualified hardwired fixtures and 100% ENERGY STARqualified ceiling fans (if any). OR Install ENERGY STAR labeled lamps in 80% of the fixtures throughout the home. ENERGY STAR labeled CFLs are acceptable. All ceiling fans must be ENERGY STAR labeled.

A project receiving points for EA 1 is not eligible for this credit, and vice versa. A project pursuing this credit must follow the prescriptive pathway and meet all the associated prerequisites in EA 210. Prerequisite EA 1.1 should be skipped. See the pathway schematic at the beginning of the EA section. Improving the lighting efficiency may also reduce cooling loads and the energy consumption associated with airconditioning.
Page 75
June 2007

Appliances
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
EA 9. Appliances
Intent
Reduce appliance energy consumption.
Maximum points: 3
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits 9.1 High-Efficiency Appliances (maximum 2 points). Install appliances from the list below. To receive points for one type (e.g., refrigerator), every appliance of that type must meet the applicable requirement below. a) ENERGY STAR labeled refrigerator(s) (1 point). b) ENERGY STAR labeled ceiling fans (at least one in living or family room and one per bedroom) (0.5 point). c) ENERGY STAR labeled dishwasher(s) that use 6.0 gallons or less per cycle (0.5 point). d) ENERGY STAR labeled clothes washer(s) (0.5 point). Water-Efficient Clothes Washer (1 point). Install clothes washer with modified energy factor (MEF) 2.0 and water factor (WF) < 5.5. A clothes washer that meets these requirements and the requirement in EA 9.1 can be counted for both.
9.2

A project receiving points for EA 1 is not eligible for this credit, and vice versa. A project pursuing this credit must follow the prescriptive pathway and meet all the prerequisites in EA 210. Prerequisite EA 1.1 should be skipped. See the pathway schematic at the beginning of the EA section.
Page 76
June 2007

Renewable Energy
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
EA 10. Renewable Energy

Intent
Maximum points: 10
Reduce consumption of nonrenewable energy sources by encouraging the installation and operation of renewable electric generation systems.
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits 10 Renewable Energy System (maximum 10 points). Design and install a renewable electricity generation system. Use energy modeling to estimate both the energy supplied by the renewable energy system and the annual reference electrical load. Receive 1 point for every 3% of the annual reference electrical load met by the system. Annual reference electric load is defined as the amount of electricity that a typical home (e.g., the HERS Reference Home) would consume in a typical year. The annual reference electric load must be determined using the procedures specified in the 2006 Mortgage Industry National Home Energy Rating Standards (HERS) Guidelines. For example, Annual reference electric load Annual electricity consumption in LEED home Annual electricity supplied by renewable energy system Percentage of annual reference electric load supplied by renewable energy system = 10,000 KWh = 7,000 KWh = 1,800 KWh = 1,800 / 10,000 = 18.0% LEED points, under EA 10 = 18.0 3 = 6.0 points

A project receiving points for EA 1 is not eligible for this credit, and vice versa. A project pursuing this credit must follow the prescriptive pathway and meet all of the prerequisites in EA 210. Prerequisite EA 1.1 should be skipped. See the pathway schematic at the beginning of the EA section. Passive solar designs must be modeled and can take credit using the approach laid out in EA 1. Solar hot water heating systems are rewarded in EA 7.3.
Page 77
June 2007

Residential Refrigerant Management
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
EA 11. Residential Refrigerant Management

Intent
Maximum points: 1
Select and test air-conditioning refrigerant to ensure performance and minimize contributions to ozone depletion and global warming.
Requirements
Prerequisites 11.1 Refrigerant Charge Test. Provide proof of proper refrigerant charge of the airconditioning system (unless home has no mechanical cooling system). Credits 11.2 Appropriate HVAC Refrigerants (1 point). Do one of the following: a) Do not use refrigerants. b) Install an HVAC system with non-HCFC refrigerant (e.g., R-410a). c) Install an HVAC system with a refrigerant that complies with the following equation. (See Table 21 for examples of the equation applied to R410a used in different system sizes). LCGWP + LCODP x 10^5 160 where LCODP = [ODPr x (Lr x Life + Mr) x Rc]/Life LCGWP = [GWPr x (Lr x Life + Mr) x Rc]/Life LCODP = Lifecycle Ozone Depletion Potential (lb CFC11/ton-year) LCGWP = Lifecycle Direct Global Warming Potential (lb CO2/ton-year) GWPr = Global Warming Potential of Refrigerant (012,000 lb CO2/lbr) ODPr = Ozone Depletion Potential of Refrigerant (00.2 lb CFC11/lbr) Lr = Refrigerant Leakage Rate (0.52.0%; default of 2% unless otherwise demonstrated) Mr = End-of-life Refrigerant Loss (2.010%; default of 10% unless otherwise demonstrated) Rc = Refrigerant Charge (0.505.0 lbs of refrigerant per ton of cooling capacity) Life = Equipment Life (1035 years; default based on equipment type, unless otherwise demonstrated)
Page 78
June 2007

Residential Refrigerant Management
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
Table 21. Examples of Residential Refrigerants Eligible for EA 11.2

Combined LCGWP+ LCODP score 152 151 151 121 Refrigerant charge 3.7 lb/ton 3.0 lb/ton 3.0 lb/ton 3.0 lb/ton Equipment life 15 years 15 years 15 years 15 years
Refrigerant R410a R410a R410a R410a
System size 2 tons 3 tons 4 tons 5 tons
Leakage rate 1.5% 2.0% 2.0% 2.0%

Efficient air-conditioning systems are covered under EA 6. This credit is available to every project, whether the performance approach (EA 1) or the prescriptive approach (EA 210) is used.
Page 79
June 2007
MATERIALS AND RESOURCES
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA Q
MR EQ AE R A
Materials and Resources (MR)

Pathway through the MR Category
Start
Important Note: A minimum of 2 points must be achieved in the MR category
MR Credit 1: Material Efficient Framing Max. Points: 5 Prerequisite: 1.1
MR Credit 2: Env. Preferable Products Max. Points: 8 Prerequisite: 2.1
MR Credit 3: Waste Management Max. Points: 3 Prerequisite : MR 3.1
Finish
Page 80
June 2007

Material Efficient Framing
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA EQ
MR EQ AE R A
MR 1. Material-Efficient Framing
Intent
Optimize the use of framing materials.
Maximum points: 5
Requirements
Prerequisites 1.1 Framing Order Waste Factor Limit. Limit the overall estimated waste factor to 10% or less. If the waste factor on any portion of the framing order exceeds 10%, calculate the overall waste factor as shown in Table 22. Waste factor is defined as the percentage of framing material ordered in excess of the estimated material needed for construction.
Table 22. Sample Framing Order Waste Factor Calculation

Framing component Random lengths Studs Beams and headers Roof deck Wall sheathing Rafters Ceiling joists Cornice work TOTAL Overall waste factor (waste $ / cost $) Credits 1.2 Detailed Framing Documents (1 point). Prior to construction, create detailed framing plans or scopes of work and accompanying architectural details for use on the job site. Indicate the specific locations, spacing, and sizes of all framing members in the floors, walls, roof, and ceiling (if different from the roof). Detailed Cut List and Lumber Order (1 point). The requirements in MR 1.2 must be met to earn this credit. Prior to construction, create a detailed cut list and lumber order that corresponds directly to the framing plans and/or scopes of work. Total cost $1,000 $2,000 $500 $2,000 $0 $2,000 $1,500 $3,000 $12,000 Waste factor 15% 5% 20% 0% 0% 0% 10% 10% Waste cost $150 $100 $100 $0 $0 $0 $150 $300 $1,000 8.3%
1.3
AND/OR 1.4 OR Framing Efficiencies (maximum 3 points). Implement measures from Table 23.
Page 81
June 2007

Material Efficient Framing
1.5
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA EQ
MR EQ AE R A
Off-Site Fabrication (4 points). Use either of the following alternatives to on-site framing: a) Panelized construction. Wall, roof, and floor components are delivered to the job site preframed. b) Modular, prefabricated construction. All principal building sections are delivered to the job site as prefabricated modules.
Table 23. Efficient Framing Measures

Measure Precut framing packages Open-web floor trusses Structural insulated panel (SIP) walls SIP roof SIP floors Stud spacing greater than 16 o.c Ceiling joist spacing greater than 16 o.c. Floor joist spacing greater than 16 o.c. Roof rafter spacing greater than 16 o.c. Implement any 2 of the following: Size headers for actual loads Use ladder blocking or drywall clips Use 2-stud corners Points 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5
Note: Alternative measures not listed in Table 23 may be eligible to earn points if they save comparable amounts of framing material. A formal credit interpretation request with full justification of any alternative measures potential savings must be submitted by the Provider to USGBC.

Reduced framing can reduce the number and size of thermal breaks and increase the amount of insulation installed, leading to better energy performance (EA 1 and 2). Credit MR 1.2 is a prerequisite for MR 1.3. A home that earns points for MR 1.2, 1.3 and 1.4 cannot earn points for MR 1.5, and vice versa. Optimizing the use of framing will reduce the amount of construction waste (MR 3.2).
Page 82
June 2007

Environmentally Preferable Products
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA EQ
MR EQ AE R A
MR 2. Environmentally Preferable Products

Maximum points: 8
Intent
Increase demand for environmentally preferable products and products or building components that are extracted, processed, and manufactured within the region.
Requirements
Prerequisites 2.1 FSC Certified Tropical Wood. Meet the following two requirements, as applicable: a) Provide all wood product suppliers with a notice (see Figure 6, below) containing all the following elements: i. a statement that the builders preference is to purchase products containing tropical wood only if it is FSC-certified; ii. a request for the country of manufacture of each product supplied; and iii. a request for a list of FSC-certified tropical wood products the vendor can supply. b) If tropical wood is intentionally used (i.e., specified in purchasing documents), use only FSC-certified tropical wood products. Reused or reclaimed materials are exempt. Note: A species of wood is considered tropical for the purposes of this prerequisite if it is grown in a country that lies between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn. Credits 2.2 Environmentally Preferable Products (0.5 point each, maximum 8 points). Use building component materials that meet one or more of the criteria below. Except as noted in Table 24, a material must make up 90% of the component, by weight or volume. A single component that meets each criterion (i.e., environmentally preferable, low emissions, and local sourcing) can earn points for each. a) Environmentally preferable products (0.5 point per component). Use products that meet the specifications in Table 24. Note: Recycled content products must contain a minimum of 25% postconsumer recycled content, except as noted in Table 24. Postindustrial (preconsumer) recycled content must be counted at half the rate of postconsumer content. AND/OR b) Low emissions (0.5 point per component). Use products that meet the emissions specifications in Table 24. AND/OR c) Local production (0.5 point per component). Use products that were extracted, processed, and manufactured within 500 miles of the home.
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June 2007

ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA EQ
MR EQ AE R A
Table 24. Environmentally Preferable Products

Assembly
Exterior wall Exterior wall Floor
Component
Framing / wall structure Siding or masonry Flooring (45% of total floor area) Flooring (90% of total floor area) Framing Aggregate Cement Framing Gypsum board Paints and coatings Decking or patio material Cabinets
EPP specifications (0.5 point per component) Concrete wall structure: Use 30% fly ash or slag wood frame: FSC-certified or reclaimed or finger joint studs Recycled content, reclaimed, or FSC-certified Linoleum, cork, bamboo, FSC-certified or reclaimed wood, sealed concrete, recycled-content flooring, or combination Meet specifications above to receive additional 0.5 point. FSC-certified or reclaimed N/A Use 30% fly ash or slag FSC-certified or reclaimed N/A Recycled paint that meets Green Seal standard GS-43 Recycled content, FSC-certified, or reclaimed Recycled content, FSC-certified, or reclaimed AND composite materials must contain no added ureaformaldehyde resins Recycled content, FSC-certified, or reclaimed AND composite materials must contain no added ureaformaldehyde resins
Emission specifications (0.5 point per component) N/A N/A Carpet & pad: all carpet & pad complies with Carpet & Rug Institute Green Label Plus program Hard flooring: automatic 1/2 point for 100% hard surface flooring Hard flooring: additional 1/2 point for using a product that is SCS FloorScore certified N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Use products that comply with all applicable standards in Table 25. N/A N/A
Local production (0.5 point per component) Eligible Eligible Eligible
Floor Floor Foundation Foundation Interior wall Interior walls AND ceilings Interior walls AND ceilings AND millwork Landscape Other
Eligible (additional 0.5 point) Eligible Eligible Eligible Eligible Eligible Not eligible Eligible Eligible
Other
Counters (kitchens and bathrooms)
N/A
Eligible
Other Other
Doors (not including garage or Recycled content, FSC-certified, or reclaimed insulated doors) Trim Recycled content, FSC-certified, or reclaimed AND composite materials must contain no added ureaformaldehyde resins N/A Recycled content, FSC-certified, or reclaimed FSC-certified Recycled content Recycled content of 20% or more
N/A N/A
Eligible Eligible
Other Other Roof Roof Roof AND floor AND wall
Adhesives and sealants Window framing Framing Roofing Insulation
Use products that comply with all applicable standards in Table 26. N/A N/A N/A Comply with California Practice for Testing of VOCs from Building Materials Using Small Chambers: www.dhs.ca.gov/ehlb/IAQ/VOCS/Practice.htm N/A
Not eligible Eligible Eligible Eligible Eligible
Roof, floor, wall (2 of 3)
Sheathing
Recycled content, FSC-certified, or reclaimed
Eligible
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June 2007

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Figure 6. Example Notice to Wood Products Suppliers Notice to Vendors: [The company] prefers to purchase products that contain tropical wood only if they are certified according to the guidelines of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Please provide the country of manufacture of each product you expect to supply to us. Also please provide a list of FSC-certified products you can supply.
Table 25. Standards for Environmentally Preferable Paints and Coatings

Component Architectural paints, coatings and primers applied to interior walls and ceilings Anticorrosive and antirust paints applied to interior ferrous metal substrates Clear wood finishes Floor coatings Sealers Applicable standard (VOC content) Flats: 50 g/L Nonflats: 150 g/L 250 g/L Varnish: 350 g/L Lacquer: 550 g/L 100 g/L Waterproofing: 250 g/L Sanding: 275 g/L All others: 200 g/L Clear: 730 g/L Pigmented: 550 g/L 250 g/L Reference Green Seal Standard GS-11, Paints, 1st Edition, May 20, 1993 Green Seal Standard GC-03, Anti-Corrosive Paints, 2nd Edition, January 7, 1997 South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1113, Architectural Coatings
Shellacs Stains
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Table 26. Standards for Low-Emissions Adhesives and Sealants

(meet South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule #1168)
Applicable standard (VOC content, g/L less water) Architectural applications Indoor carpet adhesives Carpet pad adhesives Wood flooring adhesives Rubber floor adhesives Subfloor adhesives VCT and asphalt adhesives Drywall and panel adhesives Cove base adhesives Multipurpose construction adhesives Structural glazing adhesives Specialty applications PVC welding CPVC welding ABS welding Plastic cement welding Adhesive primer for plastic Contact adhesive Special-purpose contact adhesive Structural wood member adhesive Sheet-applied rubber lining operations Top and trim adhesive Substrate-specific applications Metal to metal Plastic foams Porous materials (except wood) Wood Fiberglass Sealants Architectural Nonmembrane roof Roadway Single-ply roof membrane Other Sealant primers Architectural nonporous Architectural porous Other 250 775 750 250 300 250 450 420 510 490 325 250 550 80 250 140 850 250 30 50 50 30 80 50 50 100 60 50 50 50 50 70 100
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Products with low emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) may improve indoor air quality. Such products are included in this credit rather than in the EQ section in order to consolidate information pertaining to materials selection, specification, and purchase. A substantial amount of energy is used to transport materials from product manufacturing plants to home construction sites. Choosing local products will reduce the embedded transportation energy usage associated with construction.
Page 87
June 2007

Waste Management
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MR 3. Waste Management
Intent
Reduce waste generation to a level below the industry norm.
Maximum points: 3
Requirements
Prerequisites 3.1 Construction Waste Management Planning. Complete the following tasks related to management of construction waste: a) Investigate and document local options for diversion (e.g. recycling, reuse) of all anticipated major constituents of the project waste stream, including cardboard packaging and household recyclables (e.g., beverage containers). b) Document the diversion rate for construction waste. Record the diversion rate for land clearing and/or demolition, if applicable (e.g., on gut rehab project), separately from the rate for the new construction phase of the project.
Credits 3.2 Construction Waste Reduction (maximum 3 points). Reduce or divert waste generated from new construction activities from landfills and incinerators to a level below the industry norm. Use either of two options: a) Reduced construction waste. Generate 2.5 pounds (or 0.016 cubic yards) or less of net waste (not including waste diverted for reclamation or recycling) per square foot of conditioned floor area. Use column 1 or 2 and column 5 of Table 2 27 to determine the score. b) Increased waste diversion. Divert 25% of more of the total materials taken off the construction site from landfills and incinerators. Use column 3 or 4 and column 5 of Table 27 to determine the score; calculate the percentage using either weight or volume. Note: Land clearing and demolition waste (e.g., from removal of preexisting structures on the site) should not be counted in this calculation.
The industry average is 4.2 pounds (0.0265 cubic yards) of waste per square foot of conditioned floor area, based on data provided by the National Association of Home Builders Research Center.
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Waste Management
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Table 27. Waste Diversion Amount to landfills and incinerators

Reduced construction waste Cubic yards / 2 2 Pounds / ft 1,000 ft 4.0 25.5 3.5 22.3 3.0 19.1 2.5 15.9 2.0 12.8 1.5 9.6 1.0 6.4 0.5 3.2 Increased waste diversion Percentage Percentage waste diverted 100% 0% 88% 13% 75% 25% 63% 38% 50% 50% 38% 63% 25% 75% 13% 88%
Points
0.0 0.0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0

Waste can be minimized by creating a detailed framing plan and using advanced framing techniques or off-site fabrication (MR 1). The use of products with reclaimed or recycled content (MR 2.2) reduces both the production of new materials and the burden on landfills.
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June 2007
INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
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Indoor Environmental Quality (EQ)

Optional Pathways through the EQ Category
Start
EQ Credit 1: ENERGY STAR w/ IAP Max. Points: 13
Required for this pathway
EQ Credit 2: Combustion Venting Max. Points: 2 Prerequisite EQ 2.1 EQ Credit 3: Moisture Control Max. Points: 1
EQ Credit 4.2: Enhanced Outdoor Air Ventilation Max. Points: 2
EQ Credit 4: Outdoor Air Ventilation Max. Points: 3 Prerequisite: EQ 4.1 EQ Credit 5: Local Exhaust Max. Points: 2 Prerequisite : EQ 5.1 EQ Credit 6: Distribution Systems Max. Points: 3 Prerequisite: EQ 6.1 EQ Credit 7: Air Filtering Max. Points: 2 Prerequisite: EQ 7.1
EQ Credit 5.2: Enhanced Local Exhaust Max. Points: 1
EQ Credit 5.3: Third-Party Testing Max. Points: 1
EQ Credit 7.2 / 7.3: Better / Best Air Filters Max. Points: 2
EQ Credit 8.2: Indoor Contaminant Control Max. Points: 2
EQ Credit 8: Contaminant Control Max. Points: 4
Important Note: A minimum of 6 points must be achieved in the EQ category
EQ Credit 9: Radon Protection Max. Points: 1 Prerequisite: EQ 9.1

EQ Credit 10: Vehicle Emissions Protection
Max. Points: 3 Prerequisite: EQ 10.1
Finish
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ENERGY STAR w/ IAP
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EQ 1. ENERGY STAR with Indoor Air Package

Intent
Maximum points: 13
Improve the overall quality of a homes indoor environment by installing an approved bundle of air quality measures.
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits 1 ENERGY STAR with Indoor Air Package (13 points). Complete all the requirements of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys ENERGY STAR with Indoor Air Package (IAP).

A project receiving points for this credit may skip the prerequisites in EQ 2-10, and is not eligible to earn points in EQ 2.2, 3, 4.3, 6, 8.1, 8.3, 9, and 10. Achieving the measures in EPAs Indoor Air Package may qualify a home to receive points in other categories of the LEED for Homes Rating System. See Table 28 for equivalencies.
Table 28. Applicability of ENERGY STAR Indoor Air Package Measures to LEED for Homes LEED for Homes Relevant Indoor Air prerequisites / credits Package measures Applicability Innovation & Design Process 2.1, 2.2 Sustainable Sites 5 Various Meeting Indoor Air Package specifications will address many durability issues listed in durability inspection checklist template. Depending on project location, meeting Indoor Air Package specifications may earn up to 2 LEED points. Meeting Indoor Air Package specifications achieves prerequisites EA 6.1(a) and 6.1(c). Depending on project details, meeting Indoor Air Package specifications may earn up to 2 LEED points.
3.13.4
Energy & Atmosphere 6.1 Materials & Resources 2.2
4.1, 7.4 6.36.9
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June 2007

Combustion Venting
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EA a
MR EQ AE R A
EQ 2. Combustion Venting
Intent
Maximum points: 2
Minimize the leakage of combustion gases into the occupied space of the home.
Requirements
Prerequisites 2.1 Basic Combustion Venting Measures. Meet all the following requirements. a) b) c) d) No unvented combustion appliances (e.g., decorative logs) are allowed. A carbon monoxide (CO) monitor must be installed on each floor. All fireplaces and woodstoves must have doors. Space and water heating equipment that involves combustion must meet one of the following. Space heating systems in homes located in IECC-2006 climate zone 1 or 2 are exempt. i. it must be designed and installed with closed combustion (i.e., sealed supply air and exhaust ducting); ii. it must be designed and installed with power-vented exhaust; or iii. it must be located in a detached utility building or open-air facility.
Credits 2.2 Enhanced Combustion Venting Measures (maximum 2 points). Install no fireplace or woodstove, or design and install a fireplace or woodstove according to the requirements in Table 29.
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June 2007

Combustion Venting
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Table 29. Fireplace and Stove Combustion-Venting Requirements Fireplace or stove

None Masonry woodburning fireplace Enhanced combustion-venting measures Better practice (1 point) See best practice. Install masonry heater as defined by American Society for Testing and Materials Standard E-1602 and International Building Code 2112.1. Install equipment listed by approved safety testing facility (e.g., UL, CSA, ETL) that either is EPA certified or meets the following: equipment with catalytic combustor must emit less than 4.1 g/hr of particulate matter, and equipment without catalytic combustor must emit less than 7.5 g/hr of particulate matter. Install equipment listed by approved safety testing facility that either is EPA certified or meets following requirement: equipment with catalytic combustor must emit less than 4.1 g/hr of particulate matter, and equipment without catalytic combustor must emit less than 7.5 g/hr of particulate matter. Install equipment listed by approved safety testing facility that is power-vented or direct-vented and has permanently fixed glass front or gasketed door. Install equipment that is either EPA certified or listed by approved safety testing facility to have met requirements of ASTM E 1509-04, Standard Specification for Room Heaters, Pellet Fuel-Burning Type. Best practice (2 points) Granted automatically. Meet requirement for better practice, and conduct back-draft potential test to ensure P 5 Pascals (see conducting a backdraft potential test below). Meet requirement for better practice, and conduct back-draft potential test to ensure P 5 Pascals (see Conducting a Back-Draft Potential Test, below).
Factory-built wood-burning fireplace
Woodstove and fireplace insert
Meet requirement for better practice, and conduct back-draft potential test to ensure P 5 Pascals (see conducting a backdraft potential test below).
Natural gas, propane, or alcohol stove Pellet stove
Meet requirement for better practice, and include electronic (not standing) pilot. Meet requirement for better practice, and include power venting or direct venting.
Conducting a Back-Draft Potential Test Using the results from a blower-door test, measure the pressure difference created by the presence of a chimney-vented appliance. To ensure a limited risk of back-drafting, the pressure difference ( P) must be less than or equal to 5 Pascals, where P = (Q/C)
1/n
(must be 5 Pascals)
and Q is equal to the sum of the rated exhaust provided by the two biggest exhaust appliances in the home, and C and n are both constants produced by the blower-door test results.

A project receiving points for EQ 1 is not eligible to earn points in EQ 2.2. A project pursuing EQ 2.2 must meet all the prerequisites in EQ 210.
Page 93
June 2007

Moisture Control
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EQ 3. Moisture Control
Intent
Maximum points: 1
Control indoor moisture levels to provide comfort, reduce the risk of mold, and increase the durability of the home.
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits 3 Moisture Load Control (1 point). Install dehumidification equipment with sufficient latent capacity to maintain relative humidity at or below 60%. This must be achieved through one of the following: a) Additional dehumidification system(s). b) A central HVAC system equipped with additional controls to operate in dehumidification mode.
Note: LEED for Homes does not encourage active dehumidification for all projects. Work with the HVAC contractor to determine whether this credit is appropriate and/or necessary.

A project receiving points for EQ 1 is not eligible to earn points in EQ 3. A project pursuing EQ 3 must meet all the prerequisites in EQ 210. Water leakage through the building envelope can cause mold and other indoor environmental problems. Improved foundation, exterior walls, and roof water management should be addressed in the durability inspection checklist (ID 2). In hot and humid climates, dehumidification can reduce the energy demands associated with air-conditioning (EA 1, 6).
Page 94
June 2007

Outdoor Air Ventilation
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EQ 4. Outdoor Air Ventilation

Intent
Maximum points: 3
Reduce occupant exposure to indoor pollutants by ventilating with outdoor air.
Requirements
Prerequisites 4.1 Basic Outdoor Air Ventilation. Design and install a whole building ventilation system that complies with ASHRAE Standard 62.2. A summary of alternatives is provided below, but the HVAC contractor should review and follow the requirements of ASHRAE Standard 62.2, Sections 4 and 7. a) Mild climate exemption. A home built in a climate with fewer than than 4,500 3 infiltration degree-days is exempt from this prerequisite. b) Continuous ventilation. Meet the ventilation requirements in Table 30 below. c) Intermittent ventilation. Use Equation 4.2 of ASHRAE Standard 62.2 to demonstrate adequate ventilation air flow. d) Passive ventilation. Have a passive ventilation system approved and verified by a licensed HVAC engineer as providing ventilation equivalent to that achieved by continuous ventilation systems as described in Table 30.
Credits 4.2 Enhanced Outdoor Air Ventilation (2 points). Meet one of the following: a) In mild climates (fewer than 4,500 infiltration degree-days), install a wholebuilding active ventilation system that complies with ASHRAE Standard 62.2. OR b) Install a system that provides heat transfer between the incoming outdoor air stream and the exhaust air stream, such as a heat-recovery ventilator (HRV) or energy-recovery ventilator (ERV). The heat recovery system must be listed by a certified testing lab (e.g., UL, ETL). 4.3 Third-Party Performance Testing (1 point). Have a third-party test the flow rate of air brought into the home, and verify that the requirements of ASHRAE Standard 62.2 are met. In exhaust-only ventilation systems, install exhaust ducts according to Table 7.1 of ASHRAE Standard 62.2, and either test the flow rate out of the home or conduct air flow tests to ensure back-pressure of 0.20 inches w.c.
It is assumed that in mild climates (areas with fewer than 4,500 infiltration degree-days), the minimum outdoor air ventilation needs can be met with open windows and doors. Homes in these areas are also exempt from meeting the air filtering requirements of ASHRAE Standard 62.2 under EQ 7.1.
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June 2007

Outdoor Air Ventilation
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Table 30. Minimum Air Flow Requirements for Continuous Ventilation Systems, in cfm Conditioned floor area (ft2)
1,500 1,5013,000 3,0014,500 4,5016,000 6,0017,500 > 7,500
Bedrooms
0, 1 30 45 60 75 90 105 2, 3 45 60 75 90 105 120 4, 5 60 75 90 105 120 135 6, 7 75 90 105 120 135 150 >7 90 105 120 135 150 165

A project receiving points for EQ 1 is not eligible to earn points for EQ 4.3, but may earn points for EQ 4.2. A project pursuing EQ 4.3 must meet all the prerequisites in EQ 210. Natural air leakage through the envelope contributes to the overall ventilation rate of the home (EA 3.13.3). From a health perspective, it is important not to underventilate a home. From an energy perspective, it is important not to overventilate. Exhaust fans, which also provide the local exhaust required by EQ 5.1, can simultaneously provide the outdoor air ventilation system for the home. A heat-recovery system can substantially reduce the energy used by the heating and cooling equipment (EA 6).
Page 96
June 2007

Local Exhaust
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EQ 5. Local Exhaust
Intent
Maximum points: 2
Reduce moisture and exposure to indoor pollutants in kitchens and bathrooms.
Requirements
Prerequisites 5.1 Basic Local Exhaust. Meet all the following requirements: a) Design and install local exhaust systems in all bathrooms (including half-baths) and the kitchen to meet the requirements of Section 5 of ASHRAE Standard 62.2. Sample requirements that relate to minimum intermittent local exhaust flow rates are shown in Table 31, below. b) Design and install the fans and ducts to meet the requirements of Section 7 of ASHRAE Standard 62.2. c) Exhaust air to the outdoors (i.e., exhaust to attics or interstitial spaces is not permitted). d) Use ENERGY STAR labeled bathroom exhaust fans (except for exhaust fans serving multiple bathrooms).
Table 31. Minimum Air Flow Requirements for Intermittent Local Exhaust
Location Kitchen Minimum air flow 100 cfm; vented range hood required if exhaust fan flow rate is less than 5 kitchen air changes per hour. 50 cfm
Bathroom
Credits 5.2 Enhanced Local Exhaust (1 point). Use one of the following strategies in every bathroom to control the use of the local exhaust fan: a) An occupancy sensor. b) An automatic humidistat controller. c) An automatic timer to operate the fan for a timed interval after occupant leaves the room. d) A continuously operating exhaust fan. Third-Party Performance Testing (1 point). Perform a third-party test of each exhaust air flow rate for compliance with the requirements in Section 5 of ASHRAE Standard 62.2.
5.3
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June 2007

Local Exhaust
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A project receiving points for EQ 1 is eligible to earn points for EQ 5.2 and EQ 5.3. If designed properly, exhaust fans can also provide sufficient outdoor air ventilation system for the entire home, as required by EQ 4.1.
Page 98
June 2007

Distribution of Space Heating and Cooling
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EQ 6. Distribution of Space Heating and Cooling

Maximum points: 3
Intent
Provide appropriate distribution of space heating and cooling in the home to improve thermal comfort and energy performance.
Requirements
A. Forced-Air Systems:
Prerequisites 6.1 Room-by-Room Load Calculations. Perform design calculations (using ACCA Manuals J and D, the ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals, or an equivalent computation procedure) and install ducts accordingly.
Credits 6.2 Return Air Flow (1 point). Ensure that every room (except baths, kitchens, closets, pantries, and laundry rooms) has adequate return air flow through the use of multiple returns, transfer grilles, or jump ducts. Meet one of the following requirements: a) Size the opening to 1 square inch per cfm of supply (this area may include free area undercut below door). b) Demonstrate that the pressure differential between closed rooms and adjacent spaces with return is no greater than 2.5 Pa (0.01 inch w.c.). 6.3 Third-Party Performance Test (2 points). Have the total supply air flow rates in each room tested using a flow hood with doors closed, or one of the other acceptable methods cited by the ACCA Quality Installation Specifications. Supply air flow rates must be within +/- 15% (or +/- 10 cfm) of calculated values from ACCA Manual J (as required by EA 6.1).
B. Nonducted HVAC Systems (e.g., Hydronic Systems):

Prerequisites 6.1 Room-by-Room Load Calculations. Perform design calculations (using ACCA Manual J and D, the ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals, or an equivalent computation procedure) and install system accordingly.
Credits 6.2 6.3 Room-by-Room Controls (1 point). Design the HVAC system with flow control valves on every radiator. Multiple Zones (2 points). Install nonducted HVAC system with at least two distinct zones with independent thermostat controls.
Page 99
June 2007

Distribution of Space Heating and Cooling
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A project receiving points for EQ 1 is not eligible to earn points for EQ 6.2 or EQ 6.3. A project pursuing EQ 6.2 or EQ 6.3 must meet all the prerequisites in EQ 210. The choice of air filter (EQ 7) should be made prior to duct design, to ensure adequate air flow. Filters with a high MERV can create a large pressure drop that should be accommodated during system design. Space heating and cooling loads and room air flow rates must be calculated using ACCA Manual J (EA 6.1). The design calculations conducted for this credit should be based on those Manual J calculations. Duct installation should be visually inspected during the predrywall insulation inspection (EA 5).
Page 100
June 2007

Air Filtering
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EQ 7. Air Filtering
Intent
Reduce particulate matter from the air supply system.
Maximum points: 2
Requirements
A. Forced-Air Systems:
Prerequisites 7.1 Good Filters. Install air filters with a minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) 8 and ensure that air handlers can maintain adequate pressure and air flow. Air filter housings must be airtight to prevent bypass or leakage.
Credits 7.2 Better Filters (1 point). Install air filters MERV 10 and ensure that air handlers can maintain adequate pressure and air flow. Air filter housings must be airtight to prevent bypass or leakage. Best Filters (2 points). Install air filters MERV 13 and ensure that air handlers can maintain adequate pressure and air flow. Air filter housings must be airtight to prevent bypass or leakage.
OR 7.3
B. Nonducted HVAC Systems (e.g., Hydronic Systems):

Prerequisites 7.1 Good Filters. Install air filters MERV 8 and maintain adequate pressure and air flow in any mechanical ventilation systems. A home in a climate with fewer than 4,500 infiltration degree-days, or a home that uses only passive or exhaust-only ventilation, is exempt from this requirement.
Credits 7.2 7.3 Better Filters (1 point). Install air filters MERV 10 and maintain adequate pressure and air flow for any mechanical ventilation systems. Best Filters (2 points). Install air filters MERV 13 and maintain adequate pressure and air flow for any mechanical ventilation systems.

A project receiving points for EQ 1 is eligible to earn points for EQ 7.2 or EQ 7.3. The choice of air filter should be made during or prior to duct design (EQ 6) to ensure adequate air flow. Filters with a high MERV can create a large pressure drop that should be accommodated during system design.
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June 2007

Contaminant Control
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EQ 8. Contaminant Control
Intent
Maximum points: 4
Reduce occupants and construction workers exposure to indoor airborne contaminants through source control and removal.
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits 8.1 Indoor Contaminant Control during Construction (1 point). Upon installation, seal all permanent ducts and vents to minimize contamination during construction. Remove any seals after all phases of construction are completed. Indoor Contaminant Control (1 point each, maximum 2 points). Select from the following measures: a) Design and install permanent walk-off mats at each entry that are at least 4 feet in length and allow accessibility for cleaning (e.g., grating with catch basin). b) Design a shoe removal and storage space near the primary entryway, separated from living areas. This space may not have wall-to-wall carpeting, and it must be large enough to accommodate a bench and at least two pairs of shoes per bedroom. c) Install a central vacuum system with exhaust to the outdoors. Ensure that the exhaust is not near any ventilation air intake. Preoccupancy Flush (1 point). Flush the home with fresh air, according to the following guidelines: a) b) c) d) Flush prior to occupancy but after all phases of construction are completed. Flush the entire home, keeping all interior doors open. Flush for 48 total hours; the hours may be nonconsecutive, if necessary. Keep all windows open and run a fan (e.g., HVAC system fan) continuously or flush the home with all HVAC fans and exhaust fans operating continuously at the highest flow rate. e) Use additional fans to circulate air within the home. f) Replace or clean HVAC air filter afterward, as necessary.
8.2
8.3

A project receiving points for EQ 1 is not eligible to earn points for EQ 8.1 or EQ 8.3, but may earn points for EQ 8.2. A project pursuing EQ 8.2 must meet all the prerequisites in EQ 210. Products with low VOC emissions greatly benefit indoor air quality. Source control of these kinds of emissions is addressed in MR 2.
Page 102
June 2007

Radon Protection
ID LL
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EA Q
MR EQ AE R A
EQ 9. Radon Protection
Intent
Maximum points: 1
Reduce occupant exposure to radon gas and other soil gas contaminants.
Requirements
Prerequisites 9.1 Radon-Resistant Construction in High-Risk Areas. If the home is in EPA Radon Zone 1, design and build the home with radon-resistant construction techniques as prescribed by EPA, the International Residential Code, Washington State Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality Code, or some equivalent code or standard.
Credits 9.2 Radon-Resistant Construction in Moderate-Risk Areas (1 point). If the home is outside EPA Radon Zone 1, design and build the home with radon-resistant construction techniques as prescribed by EPA, the International Residential Code, Washington State Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality Code, or some equivalent code or standard.
Note: Radon-resistant construction does not guarantee that occupants will not be exposed to radon. The Surgeon General and EPA recommend that every home in the country be tested for radon. Information about radon testing is available at the EPA Web site, at www.epa.gov/radon/radontest.html.

A project receiving points for EQ 1 is not eligible to earn points for EQ 9.2.
Page 103
June 2007

Garage Pollutant Protection
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MR EQ AE R A
EQ 10. Garage Pollutant Protection

Intent
Maximum points: 3
Reduce occupant exposure to indoor pollutants originating from an adjacent garage.
Requirements
Prerequisites 10.1 No HVAC in Garage. Place all air-handling equipment and ductwork outside the fire-rated envelope of the garage. Credits 10.2 Minimize Pollutants from Garage (2 points). Tightly seal shared surfaces between garage and conditioned spaces, including all of the following: a) In conditioned spaces above the garage: i) seal all penetrations; ii) seal all connecting floor and ceiling joist bays; and iii) paint walls and ceilings (carbon monoxide can penetrate unfinished drywall through diffusion). b) In conditioned spaces next to the garage: i) weather-strip all doors; ii) place carbon monoxide detectors in adjacent rooms that share a door with the garage; iii) seal all penetrations; and iv) seal all cracks at the base of the walls. AND/OR 10.3 Exhaust Fan in Garage (1 point). Install an exhaust fan in the garage that is rated for continuous operation and designed to be operated in one of the following ways. Nonducted exhaust fans must be 70 cfm or greater, and ducted exhaust fans must be 100 cfm or greater. a) Fan must run continuously; or b) Fan must be designed with an automatic timer control linked to an occupant sensor, light switch, garage door opening-closing mechanism, carbon monoxide sensor, or equivalent. The timer must be set to provide at least three air changes each time the fan is turned on. OR 10.4 Detached Garage or No Garage (3 points).
Page 104
June 2007

Garage Pollutant Protection
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
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EA Q
MR EQ AE R A

A project receiving points for EQ 1 is not eligible to earn points for EQ 10.2, EQ 10.3, or EQ 10.4. A project receiving points EQ 10.4 is not eligible to earn points for EQ 10.2 or 10.3, and vice versa. EQ 10.1 should be taken into consideration when designing the HVAC and heating and cooling distribution system (EA 5, 6; EQ 4, 6).
Page 105
June 2007
AWARENESS AND EDUCATION
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EA Q
MR EQ AE R A
Awareness & Education (AE)

Pathway through the AE Category
Start
AE Credit 1 Education of the Homeowner / Tenant Max. Points: 2 Prerequisite: AE 1.1
AE Credit 2 Education of Building Manager Max. Points: 1
Finish
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June 2007

Education of Homeowner
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
AE 1. Education of the Homeowner or Tenant

Intent
Maximum points: 2
Maintain the performance of the home by educating the occupants (i.e., the homeowner or tenant) about the operations and maintenance of the homes LEED features and equipment.
Requirements
Prerequisites 1.1 Basic Operations Training. Provide the homes occupant(s) with the following: a) An operations and maintenance manual or binder that includes all the following items: i. The completed checklist of LEED for Homes features. ii. A copy of each signed Accountability Form. iii. A copy of the durability inspection checklist. iv. The product manufacturers manuals for all installed equipment, fixtures, and appliances. v. General information on efficient use of energy, water, and natural resources. vi. Operations and maintenance guidance for any LEED for Homesrelated equipment installed in the home, including space heating and cooling equipment; mechanical ventilation equipment; humidity control equipment; radon protection system; renewable energy system; and irrigation, rain water harvesting, and or graywater system. vii. Guidance on occupant activities and choices, including the following: cleaning materials, methods, and supplies; water-efficient landscaping; impacts of chemical fertilizers and pesticides; irrigation; lighting selection; and appliance selection. viii. Educational information on green power. b) A minimum one-hour walkthrough of the home with the occupant(s), featuring the following: i. Identification of all installed equipment. ii. Instruction in how to use the measures and operate the equipment. iii. Information on how to maintain the measures and equipment.
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June 2007

Education of Homeowner
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
Credits 1.2 Enhanced Training (1 point). Provide two hours of training for the occupant(s) in addition to the training provided for AE 1.1. Examples of eligible trainings include: a) An additional walkthrough or training held in another home that has similar green measures and equipment. b) A builder- or developer-sponsored meeting of potential homebuyers that informs participants of the unique features of a LEED home. c) A group homebuyer training that includes discussion of the required items in the occupants operations and maintenance manual, including information on efficient use of resources, appropriate use of measures and systems and proper maintenance of measures and systems. d) A homebuyer DVD with operations and maintenance information on the homes LEED for Homes measures. Public Awareness (1 point). Promote general public awareness about LEED for Homes by conducting at least three of the following activities: a) Hold an advertised, attended public open house that lasts at least four hours per day on at least four weekends, or participate in a green building exhibition or tour. The home or building must display at least four informational stations about the LEED for Homes features (and/or offer a guided tour that highlights at least four LEED for Homes features). b) Publish a website with at least two pages that provides detailed information about the features and benefits of LEED homes. c) Generate a newspaper article on the LEED for Homes project. d) Display LEED for Homes signage, measuring six square feet or more, on the exterior of the home or building.
1.3

Many of the measures in the Rating System should be addressed in the operations manual and the on-site training, particularly any measures that require routine maintenance (e.g., air filters) or instruction for proper operation (e.g., heat-recovery systems).
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June 2007

Education of Building Manager
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A
AE 2. Education of Building Manager

Intent
Maximum points: 1
Maintain the performance of the home by educating the building manager about the operations and maintenance of the homes LEED features and equipment.
Requirements
Prerequisites None. Credits 2 Education of Building Manager (1 point). For multifamily buildings (more than five units), provide the building manager with the following: a) A building owners manual or binder that includes these items: i. The completed checklist of LEED for Homes features. ii. A copy of each signed Accountability Form. iii. A copy of the durability inspection checklist. iv. The product manufacturers manuals for all installed equipment, fixtures, and appliances. v. General information on efficient use of energy, water, and natural resources. vi. Operations and maintenance guidance for any LEED for Homes related equipment installed in the home, including: space heating and cooling equipment; mechanical ventilation equipment; humidity control equipment; radon protection system; renewable energy system; and irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and/or graywater system. vii. Guidance on occupant activities and choices, including the following: cleaning materials, methods, and supplies; water-efficient landscaping; impacts of chemical fertilizers and pesticides; irrigation; lighting selection; and appliance selection. viii. Educational information on green power. b) A minimum one-hour walkthrough of the building before occupancy, featuring the following: i. Identification of all installed equipment. ii. Instruction in how to use the measures and operate the equipment in each unit. iii. Information on how to maintain the measures and equipment in each unit.
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June 2007

Education of Building Manager
ID LL
LL L
SS ES L
WE
EA
MR EQ AE R A

Many of the measures in the Rating System should be addressed in the building managers manual and on-site training, particularly any measures that require routine maintenance (e.g., air filters) or specific instruction for proper operation (e.g., heatrecovery systems).
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June 2007
GLOSSARY
Abbreviations and Acronyms
ACCA AE AFUE ALP AP ASME ASTM CAE CFA CFC CFL CFM CFR CIR CO COC COP CRI CZ DHW DOE DU EA EER EERE EF EPA ET EQ FEMA FSC GPF GPM HCFC HEPA HERS
Air Conditioning Contractors of America Awareness & Education section annual fuel utilization efficiency ENERGY STAR Advanced Lighting Package LEED Accredited Professional American Society of Mechanical Engineers American Society for Testing and Materials combined annual efficiency conditioned floor area chlorofluorocarbon compact fluorescent light cubic feet per minute US Code of Federal Regulations Credit Interpretation Request carbon monoxide chain of custody coefficient of performance Carpet & Rug Institute climate zone domestic hot water US Department of Energy distribution uniformity Energy & Atmosphere section energy efficiency rating US Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy energy factor US Environmental Protection Agency evapo-transpiration Indoor Environmental Quality section US Federal Emergency Management Agency Forest Stewardship Council gallons per flush gallons per minute hydrochlorofluorocarbon high-efficiency particle absorbing Home Energy Rating Standards Page 111 June 2007
ASHRAE American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers
GLOSSARY
HET HOA HSPF HVAC IAP IAQ ICF ID IDR IECC IRC KW KWH LED LEED LL MEF MERV MR NFRC OSB SCS SEER SHGC SIP SS SRI TASC UL VOC WE WF WFA high-efficiency toilet homeowners association heating season performance factor heating, ventilation, and air conditioning ENERGY STAR with Indoor Air Package indoor air quality insulated concrete form Innovation & Design section Innovative Design Request International Energy Conservation Code International Residential Code kilowatt kilowatt-hour light-emitting diode Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Location & Linkages section modified energy factor minimum efficiency reporting value Materials & Resources section National Fenestration Rating Council oriented strand board Scientific Certification Systems seasonal energy efficiency rating solar heat gain coefficient structural insulated panels Sustainable Sites section solar reflectance index Technical Advisory Subcommittee Underwriters Laboratory volatile organic compound Water Efficiency section water factor window-to-floor ratio
RESNET Residential Energy Services Network
USGBC US Green Building Council
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GLOSSARY
Glossary
adhesive any substance used to bond one surface to another by attachment. Adhesives include adhesive bonding primers, adhesive primers, adhesive primers for plastics, and any other primer. albedo a measure of the reflectivity of a surface. High-albedo materials are very reflective of solar radiation. balancing damper an adjustable plate that regulates air flow within ducts. bedroom in LEED for Homes, any room or space that could be used or is intended to be used for sleeping purposes and meets local fire and building code requirements. borate a wood preservative that is nontoxic to humans but highly toxic to wood-boring insects, such as termites. buildable land the portion of a site where construction can occur. Buildable land excludes public streets and other public rights-of-way, land occupied by nonresidential structures, public parks and land excluded from residential development by law. built environment the manmade alterations to a specific area, including its natural resources. On a home site, this includes everything that has been disturbed during construction. catchment the surface area of a roof that captures rainwater for a rainwater harvesting system. central vacuum system a network of tubing with inlets throughout the house designed to remove dust and debris to a remote receptacle. A central vacuum system is more efficient than a traditional vacuum cleaner. chain-of-custody in forest certification, the path taken by raw materials, processed materials, and products from the forest to the consumer, including all successive stages of processing, transformation, manufacturing and distribution. A chain-of-custody certificate number on invoices for nonlabeled products indicates that the certifiers guidelines for product accounting have been followed. A chain-of-custody certification is not required by distributors of a product that is individually labeled with the Forest Stewardship Council logo and manufacturers chain-of-custody number. charrette an intensive, collaborative session in which a project team discusses design and construction options related to all aspects of the home. chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) a chemical compound, once commonly used in refrigeration, that depletes the stratospheric ozone layer. circulation loop a system that returns cold water to the water heater (instead of down the drain) until hot water reaches the faucet. A circulation loop is one component of a structured plumbing system.
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GLOSSARY
climate zone in the U.S., one of 8 regions as defined by the International Energy Conservation Code that characterize the temperature of an area of the country. Climate zone 1 is the hottest and climate zone 8 is the coldest. closed combustion a design for furnaces and water heaters in which the supply air is ducted from the outside and exhaust gases are ducted to the outdoors. All elements of the system are sealed to prevent combustion exhaust from leaking into the home. combustion exhaust gases the most common gases resulting from fossil fuel combustion, including carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. These gases pose health hazards at high concentrations. compensating shower valves: designed to keep bathing water temperatures in the shower fairly constant when other appliances, such as a washing machine or toilet, are in use and when the hot or cold water supply pressures change or the bathing water outlet temperature changes. Three types of valves are available: Thermostatic compensating valves are designed to keep bathing water temperatures in the shower fairly constant when other appliances, such as a washing machine or toilet, are in use and when the hot or cold water supply pressures change or the bathing water outlet temperature changes. The response of this type of mechanism is different to that of a pressure balance compensating valve. Pressure balance compensating valves are designed to keep bathing water temperature in the shower fairly constant when other appliances, such as a washing machine or toilet, are in use and when the hot or cold water supply pressures change. Conventional, non-compensating valves are completely dependent on the user to adjust the temperature at all times by changing the adjustment. composite wood a product consisting of wood or plant particles or fibers bonded together by a synthetic resin or binder. Examples include plywood, particleboard, oriented-strand board (OSB), medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and composite door cores. conditioned space interior area that utilizes any method of air-conditioning or heating to control temperature and/or humidity levels, usually measured in cubic feet. conventional turf grass, typically a monoculture, that requires considerable watering, mowing, and/or fertilizers. What is considered conventional turf may vary by region. demand-controlled circulation the automatic circulation of water, triggered by a switch or sensor, through a looped system to ensure that hot water is immediately available while keeping unused cold water in the system, saving both water and energy. density the quantity of structures on a site, measured for residential buildings as dwelling units per acre of buildable land available for residential uses, and for nonresidential buildings as floor area ratio per net acre of buildable land available for nonresidential uses.
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GLOSSARY
designed landscape the arrangement of features on a site, including softscapes (e.g., grass, shrubs) and hardscapes (e.g., patios, fountains) but not areas under roof. Preserved natural areas are not considered part of the designed landscape. development the homes and building lots that surround the new LEED home project that is to be built. A development may be new or preexisting. Preexisting developments may be referred to as the community. distribution uniformity A metric for estimating how uniformly water is applied to an area. Distribution Uniformity (DU) ranges between 0 and 1, where 1 indicates that the irrigation system is providing perfectly equal coverage. A higher DU means less likelihood of overwatering or underwatering. disturbed lot area the part of a site that is directly affected by construction activity, including any activity that would compact the soil or damage vegetation. diverted waste debris from construction or demolition that is not sent to a landfill or incinerator. Strategies for diverting waste include reclamation, recycling and, for certain materials, mulching. drip irrigation system a network of pipes and valves that rest on the soil or underground and slowly deliver water to the root systems of plants. Drip irrigation saves water by minimizing evapotranspiration and topsoil runoff. Drip irrigation usually involves a network of pipes and valves that rest on the soil or underground at the root zone. dry well an underground structure that collects runoff and distributes it over a large area, increasing absorption and minimizing erosion. dual-flush toilet a toilet with two flush volumes, one for solid waste and a reduced volume for liquid waste. durability The ability of a building or any of its components to perform its required function in its service environment over the period of time without unforeseen cost for maintenance or repair. edge development generally, a group of homes that extend an existing community beyond its borders but remain connected to it. In LEED for Homes, at least 25% of an edge developments perimeter must border land that has been previously developed. ENERGY STAR home a home built to a high standard of energy efficiency (at least 15% more efficient than the International Energy Conservation Code). For more information, visit www.energystar.gov/homes. ENERGY STAR with Indoor Air Package (IAP) a certification program that recognizes homes with systems to ensure high standards of indoor air quality and rated as an ENERGY STAR home. envelope see thermal envelope.
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GLOSSARY
erosion a process in which materials of the earths surface are loosened, dissolved or worn away and transported by natural agents, such as water, wind or gravity. fly ash the fine ash residue from coal combustion. Fly ash can be substituted for Portland cement, a bonding material in concrete. formaldehyde a naturally occurring volatile organic compound used as a preservative. When present in high concentrations, formaldehyde can cause headaches, dizziness, mental impairment, and other symptomsand may be a carcinogen. graywater wastewater that comes from household baths and clothes washers and is neither clean nor heavily soiled. More specifically, (1) untreated house-hold wastewater which has not come into contact with toilet waste. Graywater includes used water from bathtubs, showers, bathroom wash basins, and water from clothes-washer and laundry tubs. It shall not include wastewater from kitchen sinks or dishwashers (Uniform Plumbing Code, Appendix G, Grey Water Systems for Single-Family Dwellings); (2) wastewater discharged from lavatories, bathtubs, showers, clothes washers, and laundry sinks (International Plumbing Code, Appendix C, Grey water Recycling Systems). Some states and local authorities allow kitchen sink wastewater to be included in graywater. Green Rater an individual that performs field inspections and performance testing of LEED for Homes measures for the LEED for Homes Provider. A HERS rater with additional training can become a Green Rater. hardscape elements added to a natural landscape, such as paving stones, gravel, walkways, irrigation systems, roads, retaining walls, sculpture, street amenities, fountains, and other mechanical features (American Society of Landscape Architects). Hardscapes are often impermeable, but they are not impermeable by definition. high-efficiency toilet (HET) a toilet that uses no more than 1.3 gallons per flush. Home Energy Rating System (HERS) index a system for evaluating the energy efficiency of a home using an energy simulation model. A HERS index of 100 represents the energy efficiency of a home that meets basic IECC code requirements; each additional index point represents a 1% increase in energy use, and lower index numbers indicate the percentage savings in energy use. hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) a chemical compound used as a refrigerant. HCFCs deplete the stratospheric ozone layer but to a lesser extent than chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). hydronic system a heating or cooling system that uses circulating water as the heat-transfer medium, such as a boiler with hot water circulated through radiators. infill site a lot in an existing community. In LEED for Homes, an infill site is defined as having at least 75% of its perimeter bordering land that has been previously developed. infiltration degree-days the sum of the heating degree-days and the cooling degree-days.
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GLOSSARY
invasive species an alien species whose introduction does or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health (Executive Order 13112). Not all nonnative species are considered invasive, and invasive species differ by region. Regional agencies that list invasive species are available at www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/unitedstates/state.shtml. ladder blocking a method of framing in which interior partition walls meet and are reinforced by exterior walls, with minimal framing. light fixture illumination that is permanently fixed to the home. A fluorescent light fixture has an integrated ballast. A compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) is not a light fixture. local heat island effect the incidence of higher air and surface temperatures caused by the absorption of solar energy and its reemission from roads, buildings and other structures. lot the individual parcel of land on which a home is to be built. minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) the effectiveness of a mechanical air filter based on the number and size of the particles that pass through it under normal conditions. The higher the rating, the more effective the filter. native plant a plant that has evolved within the particular habitat that it is being used. Native plants provide food and shelter to indigenous wildlife and grow in balance with surrounding plant and animal species. The characterization of a plant as native may vary regionally and even locally. no-disturbance zone an area that is preserved during construction. postconsumer recycled content material used and then recycled by consumers, as distinguished from the recycled by-products of manufacturing, called preconsumer (postindustrial) recycled content. postconsumer waste material generated by households or by commercial, industrial and institutional facilities that can no longer be used for its intended purpose. This includes returns of materials from the distribution chain (Source: ISO 14021). Examples include construction and demolition debris, materials collected through recycling programs, broken pallets (from a pallet refurbishing company, not a pallet-making company), discarded cabinetry and decking, and home maintenance waste (leaves, grass clippings, tree trimmings). potable suitable for drinking. Potable water is generally supplied by municipal water systems. power-vented exhaust the use of an active fan system to pull combustion gases out of the home. Combustion equipment with power venting can use indoor air as the combustion supply air. preconsumer content material diverted from the waste stream during the manufacturing process. Formerly known as postindustrial content. Examples include planer shavings, plytrim, sawdust, chips, bagasse, culls, trimmed materials and obsolete inventory.
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GLOSSARY
Excluded is reutilization of materials such as rework, regrind or scrap generated in a process and capable of being reclaimed within the same process that generated it (Source ISO 14021). previously developed land having pre-existing paving, construction, or significantly altered landscapes. This does not apply to altered landscapes resulting from current agricultural use, forestry use, or use as preserved natural area. previously developed site in LEED for Homes, a lot consisting of at least 75% previously developed land. prime farmland land that has the best combination of physical and chemical characteristics for producing food, feed, forage, fiber, and oilseed crops, and is also available for these uses (U.S. CFR, Title 7, Part 657.5). project the design and construction of a LEED home. A project may include multiple homes in a development. Provider an organization that recruits, trains and coordinates LEED for Homes Green Raters to serve as third-party verifiers of LEED homes. Providers are the official certifiers of LEED for Homes on behalf of the U.S. Green Building Council. radon a radioactive gas that naturally vents from the ground. Not all homes have problems with radon. High levels of radon are known to be carcinogenic. rain garden a swale, or low tract of land into which water flows, planted with vegetation that requires or tolerates high moisture levels. A rain garden can be designed to reduce the volume of water entering storm drains and replenish groundwater. reclaimed material building components that have been recovered from a demolition site and are reused in their original state (i.e., not recycled). Also known as salvaged or reused material. recycled content the weight of recycled material, including both postconsumer and preconsumer (postindustrial) material, divided by the overall weight of the assembly. recycling the collection, reprocessing, marketing and use of materials that were diverted or recovered from the solid waste stream. refrigerant a fluid that absorbs heat from a reservoir at low temperatures and rejects heat at higher temperatures. reuse the return of salvaged materials to use in the same or a related capacity. R-value a measure of thermal resistance, defined as the number of watts lost per square meter at a given temperature difference. R-value is the inverse of U- value (i.e., R = 1/U). salvaged material see reclaimed material. sedimentation the deposition of soil and other natural solids in waterbodies. Sedimentation decreases water quality and accelerates the aging process of lakes, rivers and streams.
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GLOSSARY
siltation the deposition and accumulation of fine very particles in waterbodies. Siltation is often harmful to lake, river and stream ecosystems. site the individual building lot where a home is to be built. A site may include all of the lots that a builder is responsible for. softscape the natural elements of a landscape, such as plant materials and soil. Softscapes can include hard elements, such as rocks. solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) a measure of how well a window blocks heat from the sun, expressed as a fraction of the heat from the sun that enters the window. A lower SHGC is generally preferable, particularly in hot climates. solar window screen mesh used to block light and heat from the sun, as well as insects. subdivision the homes and building lots that immediately surround the new LEED home project that is to be built. A subdivision may be new or preexisting, and belongs to a larger development. sustainable forestry the practice of managing forest resources to meet the long-term forest product needs of humans while maintaining the integrity of forested landscapes and sustaining a full range of forest valueseconomic, social and ecological. Technical Advisory Sub- Committee in LEED for Homes, a group of specialists who rule on Credit Interpretation Requests and Innovative Design Requests. termite a wood-eating social insect (order Isoptera) that can cause serious structural damage to buildings in many regions of the United States. Also known as white ant. thermal bridge a part of a building envelope that has high heat conductance, lowering the average R-value. thermal envelope the thermal enclosure created by the building exterior and insulation. topsoil The uppermost layer of soil, containing high levels of nutrients and organic matter. Healthy topsoil is essential for the survival of trees and plants. tree/plant preservation plan A formal assessment of the lot and a development of a landscaping plan that seeks to preserve the most trees and native plants. This is important to do as one of the first steps in the design process to ensure the developed area takes into account the preservation plan. ureaformaldehyde a combination of urea and formaldehyde used in some glues and adhesives, particularly in composite wood products. At room temperature, ureaformaldehyde emits formaldehyde, a toxic and possibly carcinogenic gas. U-value a measure of thermal conductivity (often used for windows) that is the inverse of Rvalue. A lower U-value means a more energy-efficient window. Also known as U-factor. vegetated roof a roof partially or fully covered by vegetation, used to manage water runoff and provide additional insulation in winter and cooling in summer. vegetated swale see rain garden.
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GLOSSARY
volatile organic compound (VOC) a carbon compound that vaporizes (becomes a gas) at normal room temperatures. VOCs contribute to air pollution directly and through atmospheric photochemical reactions to produce secondary air pollutants, principally ozone and peroxyacetyl nitrate. walk-off mat an exterior pad or grate designed to trap dust and debris. wetland an area inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances does support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions (U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, Title 40, Part 232). Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas.
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LEED For Homes Rating System - Updated April 2013

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LEED For Homes Rating System - Updated April 2013

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Rating System Errata

U.S. Green Building Council

Home Size Adjuster (HSA)

Innovative Design Process (ID)

U.S. Green Building Council

Locations and Linkages (LL)

U.S. Green Building Council

Sustainable Sites (SS)

U.S. Green Building Council

U.S. Green Building Council

Water Efficiency (WE)

U.S. Green Building Council

Energy and Atmosphere (EA)

U.S. Green Building Council

U.S. Green Building Council

U.S. Green Building Council

Materials and Resources (MR)

U.S. Green Building Council

U.S. Green Building Council

Assembly Foundation Exterior wall Roof, floor,

Component Cement Framing/ wall structure Sheathing

certified, or reclaimed material in 2 of 3 (roof/floor/wall)

certified, or reclaimed material in 3 of 3 (roof/floor/wall)

Indoor Environmental Quality (EQ)

U.S. Green Building Council

U.S. Green Building Council

U.S. Green Building Council

Awareness & Education (AE)

U.S. Green Building Council

Appendix A: Updates, Corrections, and Interpretations, Organized by Release Date:

U.S. Green Building Council

U.S. Green Building Council

U.S. Green Building Council

U.S. Green Building Council

U.S. Green Building Council

U.S. Green Building Council

Disclaimer and Notices

U.S. Green Building Council

U.S. Green Building Council

Overview of LEED for Homes

U.S. Green Building Council

U.S. Green Building Council

How to Participate in LEED for Homes

U.S. Green Building Council

Four Steps to Participate

Step 2: Identify a project team

U.S. Green Building Council

Step 3: Build the home

Step 4: Certify the home

Rater Rater HVAC Rater Rater Rater

U.S. Green Building Council

Step 5: Market and sell the LEED home

U.S. Green Building Council

Overview of the Rating System

Prerequisites: Mandatory Measures

U.S. Green Building Council

Credits: Optional Measures

Exhibit 3 Prerequisites and Minimum Point Requirements