Question #1
Which of the following buildings meets the Minimum Program Requirements for LEED certification?
- A . A 1,500 ft2 (139 m2) Tourism Center located on a previously undeveloped one-acre site
- B . A 20,000 ft2 (1 859 m2) Transit Parking Garage located on a previously developed five-acre site
- C . A 2,500 ft2 (232 m2) mobile Health Clinic located on a previously constructed above-water dock
- D . A 5,000 ft2 (465 m2) Science Education center on an above-water pier that is being built specifically for the Education center
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
The Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs) for LEED certification are:
MPR 1: Must be in a permanent location on existing land
MPR 2: Must use reasonable LEED boundaries
MPR 3: Must comply with project size requirements
Option A does not meet MPR 1 because it is located on a previously undeveloped site, which is not considered existing land. Option B does not meet MPR 3 because it is a parking garage, which is excluded from LEED certification unless it is part of a larger project. Option C does not meet MPR 1 because it is a mobile clinic, which is not considered permanent. Option D meets all the MPRs because it is a permanent building on existing land, it has reasonable LEED boundaries, and it meets the minimum gross floor area of 1,000 ft2 (93 m2) for BD+C projects.
Reference: LEED minimum program requirements
Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs)
What do the LEED Minimum Program Requirements Really Mean?
D
Explanation:
The Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs) for LEED certification are:
MPR 1: Must be in a permanent location on existing land
MPR 2: Must use reasonable LEED boundaries
MPR 3: Must comply with project size requirements
Option A does not meet MPR 1 because it is located on a previously undeveloped site, which is not considered existing land. Option B does not meet MPR 3 because it is a parking garage, which is excluded from LEED certification unless it is part of a larger project. Option C does not meet MPR 1 because it is a mobile clinic, which is not considered permanent. Option D meets all the MPRs because it is a permanent building on existing land, it has reasonable LEED boundaries, and it meets the minimum gross floor area of 1,000 ft2 (93 m2) for BD+C projects.
Reference: LEED minimum program requirements
Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs)
What do the LEED Minimum Program Requirements Really Mean?
Question #2
Which of the following would be most useful to a school project that is attempting to pursue Water Efficiency Credit, Indoor Water Use Reduction?
- A . A standard garbage disposal
- B . Electronic submeter at the domestic water supply pipe to the building
- C . An open-loop HVAC system that discharges potable cooling water to a nearby lake
- D . Commercial dishwasher that is ENERGY STAR® labeled or performance equivalent
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
The Water Efficiency Credit, Indoor Water Use Reduction aims to reduce indoor water consumption by installing water-efficient fixtures and fittings, such as faucets, showerheads, toilets, and urinals1. A commercial dishwasher that is ENERGY STAR® labeled or performance equivalent would help reduce the water use for dishwashing, which is one of the process water uses included in the credit calculation2. A standard garbage disposal would not reduce water use, but rather increase it. An electronic submeter at the domestic water supply pipe to the building would help measure and monitor water use, but not directly reduce it. An open-loop HVAC system that discharges potable cooling water to a nearby lake would waste a lot of water and potentially harm the environment.
Reference: Indoor Water Use Reduction
“Maximizing Water Efficiency in Commercial Buildings: Understanding LEED BD+C Water Efficiency Credits”
D
Explanation:
The Water Efficiency Credit, Indoor Water Use Reduction aims to reduce indoor water consumption by installing water-efficient fixtures and fittings, such as faucets, showerheads, toilets, and urinals1. A commercial dishwasher that is ENERGY STAR® labeled or performance equivalent would help reduce the water use for dishwashing, which is one of the process water uses included in the credit calculation2. A standard garbage disposal would not reduce water use, but rather increase it. An electronic submeter at the domestic water supply pipe to the building would help measure and monitor water use, but not directly reduce it. An open-loop HVAC system that discharges potable cooling water to a nearby lake would waste a lot of water and potentially harm the environment.
Reference: Indoor Water Use Reduction
“Maximizing Water Efficiency in Commercial Buildings: Understanding LEED BD+C Water Efficiency Credits”
Question #3
A project has total waste of 20 tons (18.1 tonnes) that includes the following:
・ 8 tons (7.3 tonnes) of recycled demolition steel and concrete
・ 2 tons (1.8 tonnes) of trees cleared from the site
. 3 tons (2.7 tonnes) of commingled scrap with 40% diverted
. 6 tons (5.4 tonnes) of used furniture donated to a non-profit organization
・ 1 ton (0.9 tonnes) of removed carpet and ceiling tiles sent back to the manufacturer
What is the percentage of diverted waste for Materials and Resources Credit, Construction and Demolition Waste Management?
- A . 60%
- B . 75%
- C . 90%
- D . 100%
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The percentage of diverted waste for Materials and Resources Credit, Construction and Demolition Waste Management is calculated by dividing the total weight of diverted materials by the total weight of waste generated1. Diverted materials are those that are reused, recycled, salvaged, or donated2.
In this case, the total weight of diverted materials is:
8 tons (7.3 tonnes) of recycled demolition steel and concrete
6 tons (5.4 tonnes) of used furniture donated to a non-profit organization
1 ton (0.9 tonnes) of removed carpet and ceiling tiles sent back to the manufacturer
40% of 3 tons (2.7 tonnes) of commingled scrap, which is 1.2 tons (1.1 tonnes)
The sum of these weights is 16.2 tons (14.7 tonnes). The total weight of waste generated is 20 tons (18.1 tonnes). Therefore, the percentage of diverted waste is:
(16.2 / 20) x 100 = 81%
However, the credit allows for a 10% adjustment for vegetative waste, which is not considered a building material3.
Therefore, the percentage of diverted waste after adjustment is:
(81 – 10) = 71%
The closest answer option to this value is B. 75%.
Reference: Construction and Demolition Waste Management
Construction Waste Management
Construction and Demolition Waste Management – Canada Green Building Council
B
Explanation:
The percentage of diverted waste for Materials and Resources Credit, Construction and Demolition Waste Management is calculated by dividing the total weight of diverted materials by the total weight of waste generated1. Diverted materials are those that are reused, recycled, salvaged, or donated2.
In this case, the total weight of diverted materials is:
8 tons (7.3 tonnes) of recycled demolition steel and concrete
6 tons (5.4 tonnes) of used furniture donated to a non-profit organization
1 ton (0.9 tonnes) of removed carpet and ceiling tiles sent back to the manufacturer
40% of 3 tons (2.7 tonnes) of commingled scrap, which is 1.2 tons (1.1 tonnes)
The sum of these weights is 16.2 tons (14.7 tonnes). The total weight of waste generated is 20 tons (18.1 tonnes). Therefore, the percentage of diverted waste is:
(16.2 / 20) x 100 = 81%
However, the credit allows for a 10% adjustment for vegetative waste, which is not considered a building material3.
Therefore, the percentage of diverted waste after adjustment is:
(81 – 10) = 71%
The closest answer option to this value is B. 75%.
Reference: Construction and Demolition Waste Management
Construction Waste Management
Construction and Demolition Waste Management – Canada Green Building Council
Question #4
A LEED Building Design and Construction project includes an outdoor stage for theatrical performances. In pursuit of Sustainable Sites Credit, Light Pollution Reduction the engineer has specified an LED fixture to illuminate actors on the stage while limiting light pollution.
Which of the following suggestions should the LEED AP give to the project owner?
- A . Modify the design to enclose the performance areas
- B . Calculate the return on investment over the 20-year life of the project
- C . Compare the energy consumption against an alternative
- D . Inform the owner that the LED fixture is exempt from Sustainable Sites Credit, Light Pollution Reduction
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
The Sustainable Sites Credit, Light Pollution Reduction aims to minimize the adverse effects of artificial lighting on the night sky, human health, and wildlife1. However, the credit does not apply to lighting that is required for safety, security, or emergency purposes2. According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, lighting for theatrical performances is considered an emergency purpose and is exempt from the credit requirements3. Therefore, the LEED AP should inform the owner that the LED fixture is exempt from Sustainable Sites Credit, Light Pollution Reduction and does not need to be modified or compared to an alternative. Enclosing the performance areas would not reduce light pollution, but rather increase energy consumption and affect the outdoor experience. Calculating the return on investment over the 20-year life of the project is irrelevant to the credit and would not help achieve it.
Reference: Light Pollution Reduction
Light Pollution Reduction: Sustainable Site Credit for LEED Existing Building O+M [LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4], page 581
D
Explanation:
The Sustainable Sites Credit, Light Pollution Reduction aims to minimize the adverse effects of artificial lighting on the night sky, human health, and wildlife1. However, the credit does not apply to lighting that is required for safety, security, or emergency purposes2. According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, lighting for theatrical performances is considered an emergency purpose and is exempt from the credit requirements3. Therefore, the LEED AP should inform the owner that the LED fixture is exempt from Sustainable Sites Credit, Light Pollution Reduction and does not need to be modified or compared to an alternative. Enclosing the performance areas would not reduce light pollution, but rather increase energy consumption and affect the outdoor experience. Calculating the return on investment over the 20-year life of the project is irrelevant to the credit and would not help achieve it.
Reference: Light Pollution Reduction
Light Pollution Reduction: Sustainable Site Credit for LEED Existing Building O+M [LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4], page 581
Question #5
During the early stages of a LEED for Schools project, the team was able to reduce the number of lighting fixtures in classrooms by 25% because the project team selected paint color whose light reflectance value was 75% instead of the initially proposed 64% value.
This strategy is an example of applying which of the following credits to the project?
- A . Innovation Credit, Innovation
- B . Integrative Process Credit
- C . Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Interior Lighting, Option 1. Lighting Control
- D . Materials and Resources Credit, Interiors Life-Cycle Impact Reduction
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The Integrative Process Credit is a credit in LEED Building Design and Construction that supports high-performance, cost-effective project outcomes through an early analysis of the interrelationships among systems1. The credit requires project teams to perform analyses for both energy- and water-related systems before completing the schematic design, and to use the findings to inform the owner’s project requirements, basis of design, and design and construction documents1. The example given in the question is an illustration of how selecting a paint color with a higher light reflectance value can reduce the energy use and cost of lighting fixtures, which is an energy-related system. This strategy shows how the project team applied an integrative process to evaluate the impacts of different design options on the building performance and environmental benefits. Therefore, the correct answer is
B. Integrative Process Credit.
Reference: Integrative Process
B
Explanation:
The Integrative Process Credit is a credit in LEED Building Design and Construction that supports high-performance, cost-effective project outcomes through an early analysis of the interrelationships among systems1. The credit requires project teams to perform analyses for both energy- and water-related systems before completing the schematic design, and to use the findings to inform the owner’s project requirements, basis of design, and design and construction documents1. The example given in the question is an illustration of how selecting a paint color with a higher light reflectance value can reduce the energy use and cost of lighting fixtures, which is an energy-related system. This strategy shows how the project team applied an integrative process to evaluate the impacts of different design options on the building performance and environmental benefits. Therefore, the correct answer is
B. Integrative Process Credit.
Reference: Integrative Process
Question #6
The project team wants to modify the design of an office building copy room to minimize the risk of airborne contamination to the surrounding space. The design includes a separate exhaust, but due to design constraints the partition walls of the room cannot run deck-to-deck.
What can the team do to achieve Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Strategies?
- A . Use MERV 8 (F5), or higher, filters
- B . Provide a hard-lid ceiling
- C . Create positive pressure in the room
- D . Provide a large opening to dilute air contaminates
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Strategies aims to establish better quality indoor air for the building occupants that promotes their comfort and well-being1. This credit requires the project team to implement several strategies to reduce the exposure of occupants and HVAC systems to environmental tobacco smoke, airborne contaminants, and chemicals1. One of the strategies is to design and construct all interior partitions to full height (deck-to-deck) or provide a hard-lid ceiling for spaces where hazardous gases or chemicals may be present or used2. This strategy helps prevent the migration of contaminants from one space to another through the plenum3. A copy room is an example of such a space, as it may contain printers, copiers, toners, and solvents that can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter (PM) into the air4. Therefore, the project team can achieve Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Strategies by providing a hard-lid ceiling for the copy room.
Reference: Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Strategies
Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Strategies – Canada Green Building Council [LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4], page 631 Copy Rooms: A Source of Indoor Air Pollution
B
Explanation:
The Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Strategies aims to establish better quality indoor air for the building occupants that promotes their comfort and well-being1. This credit requires the project team to implement several strategies to reduce the exposure of occupants and HVAC systems to environmental tobacco smoke, airborne contaminants, and chemicals1. One of the strategies is to design and construct all interior partitions to full height (deck-to-deck) or provide a hard-lid ceiling for spaces where hazardous gases or chemicals may be present or used2. This strategy helps prevent the migration of contaminants from one space to another through the plenum3. A copy room is an example of such a space, as it may contain printers, copiers, toners, and solvents that can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter (PM) into the air4. Therefore, the project team can achieve Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Strategies by providing a hard-lid ceiling for the copy room.
Reference: Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Strategies
Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Strategies – Canada Green Building Council [LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4], page 631 Copy Rooms: A Source of Indoor Air Pollution
Question #7
A project attempting to meet the preferred parking requirements for Location and Transportation Credit, Green Vehicles may provide what incentive to meet the requirements and highlight the project sustainable vehicle strategy?
- A . Three years of free parking for green vehicles
- B . Preferred parking decals for 5% of occupants utilizing carpool vehicles
- C . A permanent discounted parking rate of at least 20% for all green vehicles
- D . An annual maintenance voucher for at least 5% of occupants driving green vehicles
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
The Location and Transportation Credit, Green Vehicles aims to reduce transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions by promoting the use of low-emitting, fuel-efficient, and alternative-fuel
vehicles1. One of the requirements for this credit is to provide preferred parking for green vehicles for 5% of the total vehicle parking capacity of the project1. Preferred parking is defined as parking that is clearly marked and located in the most convenient spaces available to the driver or nearest to the main entrance of the project2. In addition to providing preferred parking, the project may also offer one or more incentives to encourage the use of green vehicles, such as a discounted parking rate, free parking passes, or rebates for parking fees3. The question asks what incentive may be provided to meet the requirements and highlight the project sustainable vehicle strategy. The correct answer is C. A permanent discounted parking rate of at least 20% for all green vehicles, because this incentive meets the minimum threshold of 20% discount suggested by the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction3, and it also demonstrates the project’s commitment to supporting green vehicles in the long term. The other options are either not sufficient or not relevant for this credit.
Option A. Three years of free parking for green vehicles is not sufficient because it is not permanent and may not be attractive enough for drivers to switch to green vehicles.
Option B. Preferred parking decals for 5% of occupants utilizing carpool vehicles is not relevant because it does not address green vehicles, but rather carpool vehicles, which are covered by a different credit (Location and Transportation Credit, Reduced Parking Footprint)4.
Option D. An annual maintenance voucher for at least 5% of occupants driving green vehicles is not sufficient because it is not directly related to parking and may not be a significant incentive for drivers.
Reference: Green Vehicles
Green Vehicles – Canada Green Building Council
[LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4], page 544 Reduced Parking Footprint
C
Explanation:
The Location and Transportation Credit, Green Vehicles aims to reduce transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions by promoting the use of low-emitting, fuel-efficient, and alternative-fuel
vehicles1. One of the requirements for this credit is to provide preferred parking for green vehicles for 5% of the total vehicle parking capacity of the project1. Preferred parking is defined as parking that is clearly marked and located in the most convenient spaces available to the driver or nearest to the main entrance of the project2. In addition to providing preferred parking, the project may also offer one or more incentives to encourage the use of green vehicles, such as a discounted parking rate, free parking passes, or rebates for parking fees3. The question asks what incentive may be provided to meet the requirements and highlight the project sustainable vehicle strategy. The correct answer is C. A permanent discounted parking rate of at least 20% for all green vehicles, because this incentive meets the minimum threshold of 20% discount suggested by the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction3, and it also demonstrates the project’s commitment to supporting green vehicles in the long term. The other options are either not sufficient or not relevant for this credit.
Option A. Three years of free parking for green vehicles is not sufficient because it is not permanent and may not be attractive enough for drivers to switch to green vehicles.
Option B. Preferred parking decals for 5% of occupants utilizing carpool vehicles is not relevant because it does not address green vehicles, but rather carpool vehicles, which are covered by a different credit (Location and Transportation Credit, Reduced Parking Footprint)4.
Option D. An annual maintenance voucher for at least 5% of occupants driving green vehicles is not sufficient because it is not directly related to parking and may not be a significant incentive for drivers.
Reference: Green Vehicles
Green Vehicles – Canada Green Building Council
[LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4], page 544 Reduced Parking Footprint
Question #8
Which one of the following represents quality transit service as defined in Location and Transportation Credit, Access to Quality Transit?
- A . A bus stop served by two bus lines Monday through Friday, located 1/8 mi. (0.20 km) from the project building
- B . A rail station served by one train line Monday through Sunday, located 1/2 mi. (0.80 km) from the project building
- C . A rail station served by two train lines Monday through Sunday, located 1 mi. (1.60 km) from the project building
- D . A private shuttle bus stop providing hourly service Monday through Friday to a rail station two hours away, located across the street from the project building
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The Location and Transportation Credit, Access to Quality Transit requires projects to locate within walking distance of existing or planned transit stops that provide access to quality transit service1. Quality transit service is defined as transit service that meets the minimum weekday and weekend headways (time between vehicles) and hours of operation listed in Table 1 of the credit requirements2. According to Table 1, the minimum weekday headway for bus service is 15 minutes, and the minimum weekday headway for rail service is 10 minutes. The minimum weekend headway for both bus and rail service is 30 minutes. The minimum hours of operation for both bus and rail service are 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends2. In addition, the credit requires projects to locate within a 1/4 mi. (0.40 km) walking distance of bus, streetcar, or rideshare stops or within a 1/2 mi. (0.80 km) walking distance of bus rapid transit stops, light or heavy rail stations, commuter rail stations, or ferry terminals1.
Option A does not represent quality transit service because it only has two bus lines that may not meet the minimum headway and hours of operation requirements. Option C does not represent quality transit service because it is beyond the maximum walking distance of 1/2 mi. (0.80 km) for rail stations. Option D does not represent quality transit service because it is a private shuttle bus that does not qualify as a public transportation service, and it provides hourly service that does not meet the minimum headway requirements. Option B represents quality transit service because it has a rail station that is within the maximum walking distance of 1/2 mi. (0.80 km) from the project building, and it has one train line that operates Monday through Sunday, which implies that it meets the minimum headway and hours of operation requirements.
Reference: Access to Quality Transit
Access to Quality Transit – Canada Green Building Council
B
Explanation:
The Location and Transportation Credit, Access to Quality Transit requires projects to locate within walking distance of existing or planned transit stops that provide access to quality transit service1. Quality transit service is defined as transit service that meets the minimum weekday and weekend headways (time between vehicles) and hours of operation listed in Table 1 of the credit requirements2. According to Table 1, the minimum weekday headway for bus service is 15 minutes, and the minimum weekday headway for rail service is 10 minutes. The minimum weekend headway for both bus and rail service is 30 minutes. The minimum hours of operation for both bus and rail service are 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends2. In addition, the credit requires projects to locate within a 1/4 mi. (0.40 km) walking distance of bus, streetcar, or rideshare stops or within a 1/2 mi. (0.80 km) walking distance of bus rapid transit stops, light or heavy rail stations, commuter rail stations, or ferry terminals1.
Option A does not represent quality transit service because it only has two bus lines that may not meet the minimum headway and hours of operation requirements. Option C does not represent quality transit service because it is beyond the maximum walking distance of 1/2 mi. (0.80 km) for rail stations. Option D does not represent quality transit service because it is a private shuttle bus that does not qualify as a public transportation service, and it provides hourly service that does not meet the minimum headway requirements. Option B represents quality transit service because it has a rail station that is within the maximum walking distance of 1/2 mi. (0.80 km) from the project building, and it has one train line that operates Monday through Sunday, which implies that it meets the minimum headway and hours of operation requirements.
Reference: Access to Quality Transit
Access to Quality Transit – Canada Green Building Council
Question #9
Increasing which of the following variables will require an increase in the outdoor airflow rate under Indoor Environmental Quality Prerequisite, Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance?
- A . Supply air velocity
- B . Number of occupants
- C . System ventilation efficiency
- D . Supply air temperature set point
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The outdoor airflow rate is the amount of outdoor air that is supplied to the building by the ventilation system to dilute indoor air pollutants and provide fresh air for the occupants. The outdoor airflow rate depends on the ventilation standard that the project follows, which can be either ASHRAE 62.1-2010 or CEN Standard EN 15251-20071. Both standards specify the minimum outdoor airflow rate per person and per unit area for different occupancy types and zones. Therefore, increasing the number of occupants will require an increase in the outdoor airflow rate to maintain the minimum ventilation level. The other variables, such as supply air velocity, system ventilation efficiency, and supply air temperature set point, do not directly affect the outdoor airflow rate, although they may influence the energy consumption and thermal comfort of the ventilation system.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance
Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality – ASHRAE
Indoor environmental input parameters for design and assessment of … – CEN
B
Explanation:
The outdoor airflow rate is the amount of outdoor air that is supplied to the building by the ventilation system to dilute indoor air pollutants and provide fresh air for the occupants. The outdoor airflow rate depends on the ventilation standard that the project follows, which can be either ASHRAE 62.1-2010 or CEN Standard EN 15251-20071. Both standards specify the minimum outdoor airflow rate per person and per unit area for different occupancy types and zones. Therefore, increasing the number of occupants will require an increase in the outdoor airflow rate to maintain the minimum ventilation level. The other variables, such as supply air velocity, system ventilation efficiency, and supply air temperature set point, do not directly affect the outdoor airflow rate, although they may influence the energy consumption and thermal comfort of the ventilation system.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance
Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality – ASHRAE
Indoor environmental input parameters for design and assessment of … – CEN
Question #10
Which of the following innovation proposals is most likely to be successful to achieve an Innovation Credit?
- A . Providing an educational program on the environmental and human health benefits of green building practices
- B . Including locked, indoor bicycle storage for 100% of project occupants
- C . Being located next to a 20 mi. (32 km) award-winning bicycle trail
- D . Distributing leaflets to project occupants about available public transit services nearby
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Providing an educational program on the environmental and human health benefits of green building practices is a potential innovation strategy that is not addressed by any existing LEED credit. It also meets the criteria of being measurable, replicable, and having a positive impact on the project and the environment.
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Innovation Category, INc1: Innovation, Option 1.
Innovation (1 point), page 704.
A
Explanation:
Providing an educational program on the environmental and human health benefits of green building practices is a potential innovation strategy that is not addressed by any existing LEED credit. It also meets the criteria of being measurable, replicable, and having a positive impact on the project and the environment.
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Innovation Category, INc1: Innovation, Option 1.
Innovation (1 point), page 704.
Question #11
What standard should an engineer use when establishing minimum ventilation rates for a new mechanically ventilated space to earn Indoor Environmental Quality, Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance?
- A . Local building code
- B . ASHRAE 62.1-2010
- C . International Mechanical Code 2012
- D . The ventilation code requiring the greatest volume of outside air
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
ASHRAE 62.1-2010 is the standard that an engineer should use when establishing minimum ventilation rates for a new mechanically ventilated space to earn Indoor Environmental Quality, Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance. This is the standard referenced by the LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide for this prerequisite. Local building code, International Mechanical Code 2012, and the ventilation code requiring the greatest volume of outside air are not acceptable alternatives for this prerequisite.
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Indoor Environmental Quality Category, EQp Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance, page 674.
B
Explanation:
ASHRAE 62.1-2010 is the standard that an engineer should use when establishing minimum ventilation rates for a new mechanically ventilated space to earn Indoor Environmental Quality, Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance. This is the standard referenced by the LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide for this prerequisite. Local building code, International Mechanical Code 2012, and the ventilation code requiring the greatest volume of outside air are not acceptable alternatives for this prerequisite.
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Indoor Environmental Quality Category, EQp Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance, page 674.
Question #12
Under Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Fundamental Commissioning and Verification, a current facilities requirements and operations and maintenance plan must contain which information necessary to operate the building efficiently?
- A . Any changes in schedules or setpoints for different seasons, days of the week, and times of day
- B . Only changes in schedules or setpoints for peak usages during seasons, days of the week, and times of day
- C . Any changes in schedules during peak times, or for different seasons, peak-usage days of the week, and times of day
- D . Any changes in schedules or setpoints focusing on only the hottest and coldest periods of the seasons, peak-use days of the week, and times of day
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
A current facilities requirements and operations and maintenance plan must contain any changes in schedules or setpoints for different seasons, days of the week, and times of day. This is to ensure that the building systems are operating efficiently and according to the design intent. The other options are too limited or too specific and do not cover all the possible variations in schedules or setpoints.
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Energy and Atmosphere Category, EAp Fundamental Commissioning and Verification, page 569.
A
Explanation:
A current facilities requirements and operations and maintenance plan must contain any changes in schedules or setpoints for different seasons, days of the week, and times of day. This is to ensure that the building systems are operating efficiently and according to the design intent. The other options are too limited or too specific and do not cover all the possible variations in schedules or setpoints.
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Energy and Atmosphere Category, EAp Fundamental Commissioning and Verification, page 569.
Question #13
For a task chair purchased for a healthcare facility, which portion of the product contributes toward Materials and Resources Credit, Furniture and Medical Furnishings?
- A . Wheels, 4% of product by weight, that do not contain lead, mercury, cadmium or antimony
- B . Fabric, 5% of product by weight, with stain resistant treatment containing Perfluorinated Compounds (PFCs)
- C . Metal base, 20% of product by weight, which do not contain heavy metals and is not plated with hexavalent chromium
- D . Plastic armrests, 30% of product by weight, with added antimicrobial treatment
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
The metal base, 20% of product by weight, which do not contain heavy metals and is not plated with hexavalent chromium, contributes toward Materials and Resources Credit, Furniture and Medical Furnishings. This is because it meets the criteria of Option 1: Minimal Chemical Content, which requires that all components that constitute at least 5%, by weight, of a furniture or medical furnishing assembly must contain less than 100 ppm of at least four of the five chemical groups listed in the option. The other portions of the product either do not meet the 5% weight threshold (wheels), or contain chemicals that are restricted by Option 1 (fabric, armrests).
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Materials and Resources Category, MRc Furniture and Medical Furnishings, Option 1. Minimal Chemical Content, page 711.
C
Explanation:
The metal base, 20% of product by weight, which do not contain heavy metals and is not plated with hexavalent chromium, contributes toward Materials and Resources Credit, Furniture and Medical Furnishings. This is because it meets the criteria of Option 1: Minimal Chemical Content, which requires that all components that constitute at least 5%, by weight, of a furniture or medical furnishing assembly must contain less than 100 ppm of at least four of the five chemical groups listed in the option. The other portions of the product either do not meet the 5% weight threshold (wheels), or contain chemicals that are restricted by Option 1 (fabric, armrests).
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Materials and Resources Category, MRc Furniture and Medical Furnishings, Option 1. Minimal Chemical Content, page 711.
Question #14
Which of the following is required when documenting a LEED Pilot credit?
- A . Compliance letter
- B . LEED AP approval
- C . Innovation narrative
- D . Pilot Credit registration
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
Pilot Credit registration is required when documenting a LEED Pilot credit. This is to ensure that the project team has access to the latest pilot credit language and requirements, and that USGBC can track the usage and feedback of the pilot credits. The other options are not required for documenting a pilot credit, although they may be helpful or applicable for other credits.
Reference: LEED Pilot Credit Library, Getting Started, page 1.
D
Explanation:
Pilot Credit registration is required when documenting a LEED Pilot credit. This is to ensure that the project team has access to the latest pilot credit language and requirements, and that USGBC can track the usage and feedback of the pilot credits. The other options are not required for documenting a pilot credit, although they may be helpful or applicable for other credits.
Reference: LEED Pilot Credit Library, Getting Started, page 1.
Question #15
Which of the following sinks is classified as a private lavatory faucet under Water Efficiency Credit, Indoor Water Use Reduction?
- A . A sink in an office restroom
- B . A sink in a school classroom
- C . A sink in a hotel room bathroom
- D . A sink in a shared office restroom
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
A sink in a hotel room bathroom is classified as a private lavatory faucet under Water Efficiency Credit, Indoor Water Use Reduction. According to the LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, a private lavatory faucet is defined as “a faucet that is not generally accessible and is used only by the building’s occupants and not by the public or visitors” 1. A sink in an office restroom, a school classroom, or a shared office restroom are examples of public lavatory faucets, which have different baseline flow rates and requirements.
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Water Efficiency Category, WEc Indoor Water Use Reduction, page 681.
C
Explanation:
A sink in a hotel room bathroom is classified as a private lavatory faucet under Water Efficiency Credit, Indoor Water Use Reduction. According to the LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, a private lavatory faucet is defined as “a faucet that is not generally accessible and is used only by the building’s occupants and not by the public or visitors” 1. A sink in an office restroom, a school classroom, or a shared office restroom are examples of public lavatory faucets, which have different baseline flow rates and requirements.
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Water Efficiency Category, WEc Indoor Water Use Reduction, page 681.
Question #16
An owner has insisted on using a non-native or non-adapted plant species on both the vegetated roof and ground level.
What Sustainable Sites credit will this decision impact the most?
- A . Site Development-Protect or Restore Habita
- B . Site Assessment
- C . Heat Island Reduction
- D . Light Pollution Reduction
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Using a non-native or non-adapted plant species on both the vegetated roof and ground level will impact the Sustainable Sites credit Site Development-Protect or Restore Habitat the most. This credit requires that at least 20% of the site area (excluding building footprint) or 5% of the site area (including building footprint) must be vegetated with native or adapted plants. Non-native or non-adapted plants do not qualify for this credit and may also have negative impacts on the local ecosystem and biodiversity. The other credits are not directly affected by the choice of plant species, although they may have other requirements related to vegetation, such as shading, reflectance, or lighting.
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Sustainable Sites Category, SSc Site Development-Protect or Restore Habitat, page 648.
A
Explanation:
Using a non-native or non-adapted plant species on both the vegetated roof and ground level will impact the Sustainable Sites credit Site Development-Protect or Restore Habitat the most. This credit requires that at least 20% of the site area (excluding building footprint) or 5% of the site area (including building footprint) must be vegetated with native or adapted plants. Non-native or non-adapted plants do not qualify for this credit and may also have negative impacts on the local ecosystem and biodiversity. The other credits are not directly affected by the choice of plant species, although they may have other requirements related to vegetation, such as shading, reflectance, or lighting.
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Sustainable Sites Category, SSc Site Development-Protect or Restore Habitat, page 648.
Question #17
A LEED Building Design and Construction: New Construction office building’s HVAC system includes hot water from a central utility plant. The central utility plant is owned and operated by a management company. The office pays a flat fee for hot water, included as part of the lease. The management company does not meter or invoice for actual hot water consumption. For the project to meet the requirements for Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Building-Level Energy Metering, an energy meter must be installed for
- A . natural gas
- B . hot water at the main service point
- C . nothing, because the flat fee is included as part of the lease
- D . nothing, because the energy source is outside of the project’s scope
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
An energy meter must be installed for hot water at the main service point for the project to meet the requirements for Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Building-Level Energy Metering. According to the LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, this prerequisite requires that “all energy sources used by the building must be metered or submetered” 1. The hot water from the central utility plant is an energy source used by the building, even if it is not directly paid by the office. Therefore, it must be metered at the point where it enters the building. The other options are incorrect because natural gas is not an energy source used by the building in this case, and the flat fee or the ownership of the energy source do not exempt the project from the metering requirement.
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Energy and Atmosphere Category, EAp Building-Level Energy Metering, page 569.
B
Explanation:
An energy meter must be installed for hot water at the main service point for the project to meet the requirements for Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Building-Level Energy Metering. According to the LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, this prerequisite requires that “all energy sources used by the building must be metered or submetered” 1. The hot water from the central utility plant is an energy source used by the building, even if it is not directly paid by the office. Therefore, it must be metered at the point where it enters the building. The other options are incorrect because natural gas is not an energy source used by the building in this case, and the flat fee or the ownership of the energy source do not exempt the project from the metering requirement.
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Energy and Atmosphere Category, EAp Building-Level Energy Metering, page 569.
Question #18
LEED project boundaries that include multiple similar buildings which are all eligible for certification can be registered as which of the following?
- A . Batch project
- B . Group project
- C . Master Site project
- D . Neighborhood project
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
LEED project boundaries that include multiple similar buildings which are all eligible for certification can be registered as a group project. A group project allows multiple buildings (or interior spaces within multiple buildings) on a shared site to be certified as a single LEED project. These projects must meet the criteria outlined in the LEED Campus Guidance for Projects on a Shared Site, such as having the same construction contract, ownership, management, space type, rating system, and compliance paths. A group project will receive one certification and rating for the entire group.
Reference: Group Projects (previously Multiple Building Projects), CAGBC News, September 1, 2020.
B
Explanation:
LEED project boundaries that include multiple similar buildings which are all eligible for certification can be registered as a group project. A group project allows multiple buildings (or interior spaces within multiple buildings) on a shared site to be certified as a single LEED project. These projects must meet the criteria outlined in the LEED Campus Guidance for Projects on a Shared Site, such as having the same construction contract, ownership, management, space type, rating system, and compliance paths. A group project will receive one certification and rating for the entire group.
Reference: Group Projects (previously Multiple Building Projects), CAGBC News, September 1, 2020.
Question #19
Which system is eligible for the Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Renewable Energy Production?
- A . Ground-source heat pumps
- B . Tidal-based electrical production
- C . Municipal solid waste combustion
- D . Passive solar and daylighting strategies
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
Tidal-based electrical production is eligible for the Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Renewable Energy Production. This credit rewards projects that use renewable energy systems to offset building energy cost. According to the LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, renewable energy systems are defined as “those that use resources that are naturally replenished within a 100-year or shorter cycle and that are greenhouse gas neutral on an annual basis” 1. Tidal-based electrical production meets this definition, as it uses the kinetic energy of the tides to generate electricity without emitting greenhouse gases. The other options are not eligible for this credit, as ground-source heat pumps are not considered renewable energy systems, municipal solid waste combustion is not greenhouse gas neutral, and passive solar and daylighting strategies do not offset building energy cost.
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Energy and Atmosphere Category, EAc Renewable Energy Production, page 572.
B
Explanation:
Tidal-based electrical production is eligible for the Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Renewable Energy Production. This credit rewards projects that use renewable energy systems to offset building energy cost. According to the LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, renewable energy systems are defined as “those that use resources that are naturally replenished within a 100-year or shorter cycle and that are greenhouse gas neutral on an annual basis” 1. Tidal-based electrical production meets this definition, as it uses the kinetic energy of the tides to generate electricity without emitting greenhouse gases. The other options are not eligible for this credit, as ground-source heat pumps are not considered renewable energy systems, municipal solid waste combustion is not greenhouse gas neutral, and passive solar and daylighting strategies do not offset building energy cost.
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Energy and Atmosphere Category, EAc Renewable Energy Production, page 572.
Question #20
A contractor is building a retirement community project. 30% of the building’s product costs were derived from reused/salvaged materials or met recycled content criteria.
Which of the following credits can the LEED AP submit towards certification?
- A . Materials and Resources Credit, Building Product Disclosure and Optimization – Sourcing of Raw Materials
- B . Materials and Resources Prerequisite, Construction and Demolition – Waste Management Planning
- C . Materials and Resources Credit, Building Product Disclosure and Optimization – Material Ingredients
- D . Materials and Resources Credit, Building Product Disclosure and Optimization – Environmental Product Declarations
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
The Materials and Resources Credit, Building Product Disclosure and Optimization – Sourcing of Raw Materials rewards projects that use materials that have optimized extraction processes by limiting or eliminating the extraction of new resources, the reuse of materials or the use of recycled materials1. According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction2, the credit has two options: Option 1. Raw Material Source and Extraction Reporting and Option 2. Leadership Extraction Practices. Option 1 requires the project to use at least 20 permanently installed products from at least five different manufacturers that have publicly released a report from their raw material suppliers which include extraction locations, a commitment to long-term ecologically responsible land use, a commitment to reducing environmental harms from extraction and/or manufacturing processes, and a commitment to meeting applicable standards or programs voluntarily that address responsible sourcing criteria2. Option 2 requires the project to use products that meet at least one of the responsible sourcing criteria below for at least 25%, by cost, of the total value of permanently installed building products in the project:
Extended producer responsibility. Products purchased from a manufacturer (producer) that participates in an extended producer responsibility program or is directly responsible for extended producer responsibility.
Bio-based materials. Bio-based products must meet the Sustainable Agriculture Network’s Sustainable Agriculture Standard. Bio-based raw materials must be tested using ASTM Test Method D6866 and be legally harvested, as defined by the exporting and receiving country. Exclude hide products, such as leather and other animal skin material.
Wood products. Wood products must be certified by the Forest Stewardship Council or USGBC-approved equivalent.
Materials reuse. Reused products must include salvaged, refurbished, or reused products. Recycled content. Recycled content is the sum of postconsumer recycled content plus one-half the preconsumer recycled content, based on cost. Products meeting recycled content criteria are valued at 100% of their cost for the purposes of credit achievement calculation.
USGBC approved program. Other USGBC approved programs meeting leadership extraction criteria. Therefore, among the given options, only Option A is relevant to the use of reused/salvaged materials or recycled content, as they can contribute to the materials reuse or recycled content criteria under Option 2. Option B is a prerequisite that requires the project to develop and implement a construction and demolition waste management plan that identifies the materials to be diverted from disposal and whether the materials will be sorted on-site or co-mingled2. Option C is a credit that requires the project to use at least 20 different permanently installed products from at least five different manufacturers that use any of the following programs to demonstrate the chemical inventory of the product to at least 0.1% (1000 ppm):
Health Product Declaration. The end use product has a published, complete Health Product Declaration with full disclosure of known hazards in compliance with the Health Product Declaration Open Standard.
Cradle to Cradle. The end use product has been certified at the Cradle to Cradle v2 Basic level or Cradle to Cradle v3 Bronze level.
REACH Optimization. The end use product is compliant with REACH Optimization criteria. GreenScreen v1.2 Benchmark. The product’s chemical ingredients are inventoried using the GreenScreen v1.2 Benchmark.
Declare. The Declare product label must indicate that all ingredients have been disclosed down to 1000 ppm.
Option D is a credit that requires the project to use at least 20 different permanently installed products that have environmental product declarations. The products must be sourced from at least five different manufacturers. The environmental product declarations must conform to ISO 14025, 14040, 14044, and EN 15804 or ISO 21930 and have at least a cradle-to-gate scope2.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 Recycled content | U.S. Green Building Council CS-v4.1 MRc3: Sourcing of Raw Materials | LEEDuser
How to choose the right materials for a LEED project? – GBCE
A
Explanation:
The Materials and Resources Credit, Building Product Disclosure and Optimization – Sourcing of Raw Materials rewards projects that use materials that have optimized extraction processes by limiting or eliminating the extraction of new resources, the reuse of materials or the use of recycled materials1. According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction2, the credit has two options: Option 1. Raw Material Source and Extraction Reporting and Option 2. Leadership Extraction Practices. Option 1 requires the project to use at least 20 permanently installed products from at least five different manufacturers that have publicly released a report from their raw material suppliers which include extraction locations, a commitment to long-term ecologically responsible land use, a commitment to reducing environmental harms from extraction and/or manufacturing processes, and a commitment to meeting applicable standards or programs voluntarily that address responsible sourcing criteria2. Option 2 requires the project to use products that meet at least one of the responsible sourcing criteria below for at least 25%, by cost, of the total value of permanently installed building products in the project:
Extended producer responsibility. Products purchased from a manufacturer (producer) that participates in an extended producer responsibility program or is directly responsible for extended producer responsibility.
Bio-based materials. Bio-based products must meet the Sustainable Agriculture Network’s Sustainable Agriculture Standard. Bio-based raw materials must be tested using ASTM Test Method D6866 and be legally harvested, as defined by the exporting and receiving country. Exclude hide products, such as leather and other animal skin material.
Wood products. Wood products must be certified by the Forest Stewardship Council or USGBC-approved equivalent.
Materials reuse. Reused products must include salvaged, refurbished, or reused products. Recycled content. Recycled content is the sum of postconsumer recycled content plus one-half the preconsumer recycled content, based on cost. Products meeting recycled content criteria are valued at 100% of their cost for the purposes of credit achievement calculation.
USGBC approved program. Other USGBC approved programs meeting leadership extraction criteria. Therefore, among the given options, only Option A is relevant to the use of reused/salvaged materials or recycled content, as they can contribute to the materials reuse or recycled content criteria under Option 2. Option B is a prerequisite that requires the project to develop and implement a construction and demolition waste management plan that identifies the materials to be diverted from disposal and whether the materials will be sorted on-site or co-mingled2. Option C is a credit that requires the project to use at least 20 different permanently installed products from at least five different manufacturers that use any of the following programs to demonstrate the chemical inventory of the product to at least 0.1% (1000 ppm):
Health Product Declaration. The end use product has a published, complete Health Product Declaration with full disclosure of known hazards in compliance with the Health Product Declaration Open Standard.
Cradle to Cradle. The end use product has been certified at the Cradle to Cradle v2 Basic level or Cradle to Cradle v3 Bronze level.
REACH Optimization. The end use product is compliant with REACH Optimization criteria. GreenScreen v1.2 Benchmark. The product’s chemical ingredients are inventoried using the GreenScreen v1.2 Benchmark.
Declare. The Declare product label must indicate that all ingredients have been disclosed down to 1000 ppm.
Option D is a credit that requires the project to use at least 20 different permanently installed products that have environmental product declarations. The products must be sourced from at least five different manufacturers. The environmental product declarations must conform to ISO 14025, 14040, 14044, and EN 15804 or ISO 21930 and have at least a cradle-to-gate scope2.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 Recycled content | U.S. Green Building Council CS-v4.1 MRc3: Sourcing of Raw Materials | LEEDuser
How to choose the right materials for a LEED project? – GBCE
Question #21
When the LEED AP is applying the Integrative Process to a Building Design and Construction project, which of the following information is required to be present in the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR)?
- A . All applicable codes and standards
- B . Interior finishes related to the project
- C . All project team members and applicable roles
- D . Energy efficiency goals and training requirements
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
Energy efficiency goals and training requirements are required to be present in the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) when applying the Integrative Process to a Building Design and Construction project. According to the LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, the OPR is a document that details the ideas, concepts, and criteria that are determined by the owner to be important to the success of the project 1.
The OPR must include, among other things, the following information related to energy efficiency 1:
The owner’s energy performance goals and expectations
The owner’s requirements for energy metering and monitoring
The owner’s requirements for energy modeling and analysis
The owner’s requirements for commissioning and verification
The owner’s requirements for training and documentation
The other options are not required to be present in the OPR, as they are either related to other aspects of the project, such as codes and standards, interior finishes, or project team members, or they are not relevant to the Integrative Process, which focuses on early analysis of energy, water, and site systems 2.
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Integrative Process Category, IPc Integrative Process, page 632.
D
Explanation:
Energy efficiency goals and training requirements are required to be present in the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) when applying the Integrative Process to a Building Design and Construction project. According to the LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, the OPR is a document that details the ideas, concepts, and criteria that are determined by the owner to be important to the success of the project 1.
The OPR must include, among other things, the following information related to energy efficiency 1:
The owner’s energy performance goals and expectations
The owner’s requirements for energy metering and monitoring
The owner’s requirements for energy modeling and analysis
The owner’s requirements for commissioning and verification
The owner’s requirements for training and documentation
The other options are not required to be present in the OPR, as they are either related to other aspects of the project, such as codes and standards, interior finishes, or project team members, or they are not relevant to the Integrative Process, which focuses on early analysis of energy, water, and site systems 2.
Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Integrative Process Category, IPc Integrative Process, page 632.
Question #22
Plug-in task lighting will be utilized in a LEED project at all workstations. The task lighting is not included in the installed lighting power calculations for Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Minimum Energy Performance since
- A . it is being covered by Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Interior Lighting, Option 1. Lighting Control
- B . it is specifically exempted by ASHRAE
- C . it will be installed by the owner
- D . the lamp wattage has not been determined
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
Plug-in task lighting is considered as furniture and is not included in the installed lighting power calculations for Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Minimum Energy Performance. It is also not required to comply with the lighting control requirements of ASHRAE 90.1-2010. However, it can be used to satisfy the individual control requirement of Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Interior Lighting, Option 1.
Reference: LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 361
LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 6012
ASHRAE 90.1-2010, Section 9.1.13
C
Explanation:
Plug-in task lighting is considered as furniture and is not included in the installed lighting power calculations for Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Minimum Energy Performance. It is also not required to comply with the lighting control requirements of ASHRAE 90.1-2010. However, it can be used to satisfy the individual control requirement of Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Interior Lighting, Option 1.
Reference: LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 361
LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 6012
ASHRAE 90.1-2010, Section 9.1.13
Question #23
Which of the following project types is required to consider the perimeter floor area instead of the regularly occupied floor area under the Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Daylight calculations?
- A . Retail
- B . Schools
- C . Healthcare
- D . Core and Shell
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
Healthcare projects are required to consider the perimeter floor area instead of the regularly occupied floor area under the Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Daylight calculations. This is because healthcare projects have different daylighting needs and challenges than other project types, and the perimeter area is more likely to have access to natural light and views. The perimeter floor area is defined as the regularly occupied spaces within 15 feet (4.5 meters) of the exterior wall that meets the minimum glazing requirements.
Reference: LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 6021
LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 362
C
Explanation:
Healthcare projects are required to consider the perimeter floor area instead of the regularly occupied floor area under the Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Daylight calculations. This is because healthcare projects have different daylighting needs and challenges than other project types, and the perimeter area is more likely to have access to natural light and views. The perimeter floor area is defined as the regularly occupied spaces within 15 feet (4.5 meters) of the exterior wall that meets the minimum glazing requirements.
Reference: LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 6021
LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 362
Question #24
What is the minimum number of members of the integrated project team for the Integrative Process Prerequisite, Integrative Project Planning and Design?
- A . One
- B . Two
- C . Four
- D . Six
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction1, the Integrative Process Prerequisite, Integrative Project Planning and Design, requires the project to assemble an integrated project team that includes at least four key project team members, in addition to the owner or owner’s representative. The key project team members are those who have the authority and responsibility to make design decisions and implement them during construction. The integrated project team should include professionals from different disciplines, such as architecture, engineering, landscape, interior design, construction, commissioning, operations, and maintenance. The integrated project team should collaborate throughout the project phases, from discovery to occupancy, to achieve the project goals and optimize the building performance.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4
Integrated Product Team (IPT) – AcqNotes
The Power of an Integrated Project Team Process – Little
C
Explanation:
According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction1, the Integrative Process Prerequisite, Integrative Project Planning and Design, requires the project to assemble an integrated project team that includes at least four key project team members, in addition to the owner or owner’s representative. The key project team members are those who have the authority and responsibility to make design decisions and implement them during construction. The integrated project team should include professionals from different disciplines, such as architecture, engineering, landscape, interior design, construction, commissioning, operations, and maintenance. The integrated project team should collaborate throughout the project phases, from discovery to occupancy, to achieve the project goals and optimize the building performance.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4
Integrated Product Team (IPT) – AcqNotes
The Power of an Integrated Project Team Process – Little
Question #25
Which of the following project types is required to consider the perimeter floor area instead of the regularly occupied floor area under the Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Daylight calculations?
- A . Retail
- B . Schools
- C . Healthcare
- D . Core and Shell
Correct Answer: C
Question #26
A newly constructed school has installed solar thermal systems and wind turbines on site.
To achieve the maximum number of Energy and Atmosphere points, which team members must be included?
- A . Energy Modeler and Contractor
- B . Construction Manager and Energy Modeler
- C . Energy Modeler and Commissioning (Cx) Agent
- D . Commissioning (Cx) Agent and Facilities Manager
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
To achieve the maximum number of Energy and Atmosphere points, the project team must include an energy modeler and a commissioning agent. The energy modeler is responsible for performing the whole-building energy simulation that demonstrates the energy performance improvement over the baseline building, which is required for Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 2 and Credit 11. The commissioning agent is responsible for verifying that the building’s energy systems are installed, calibrated, and perform according to the owner’s project requirements, basis of design, and construction documents, which is required for Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 1 and Credit 31.
The commissioning agent also ensures that the renewable energy systems are properly integrated and functioning2. The contractor and the construction manager are not directly involved in the energy modeling or commissioning process, although they must follow the design specifications and coordinate with the commissioning agent. The facilities manager is not required for achieving the Energy and Atmosphere points, although they may benefit from the training and documentation provided by the commissioning agent.
Reference: LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 361
Understanding Integrative Design in LEED v4, p. 92
C
Explanation:
To achieve the maximum number of Energy and Atmosphere points, the project team must include an energy modeler and a commissioning agent. The energy modeler is responsible for performing the whole-building energy simulation that demonstrates the energy performance improvement over the baseline building, which is required for Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 2 and Credit 11. The commissioning agent is responsible for verifying that the building’s energy systems are installed, calibrated, and perform according to the owner’s project requirements, basis of design, and construction documents, which is required for Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 1 and Credit 31.
The commissioning agent also ensures that the renewable energy systems are properly integrated and functioning2. The contractor and the construction manager are not directly involved in the energy modeling or commissioning process, although they must follow the design specifications and coordinate with the commissioning agent. The facilities manager is not required for achieving the Energy and Atmosphere points, although they may benefit from the training and documentation provided by the commissioning agent.
Reference: LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 361
Understanding Integrative Design in LEED v4, p. 92
Question #27
When using the Integrative Process, what is the best way for the LEED AP to assess the impact of indoor and outdoor water consumption in a Building Design and Construction project?
- A . Perform a preliminary water budget analysis before the completion of schematic design
- B . Install permanent metering on both the water sources and the waste water leaving the site
- C . At the completion of schematic design, count the fixtures and apply the maximum flow rate
- D . Estimate consumption by using 20 gal. per day (76 I per day) for each Full Time Equivalent (FTE) scheduled to occupy the building
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
When using the Integrative Process, the best way for the LEED AP to assess the impact of indoor and outdoor water consumption in a Building Design and Construction project is to perform a preliminary water budget analysis before the completion of schematic design. This analysis should include the following steps1:
Identify the project’s water sources and uses, such as potable water, reclaimed water, rainwater, graywater, blackwater, irrigation, cooling towers, etc.
Estimate the baseline water consumption for each use based on the applicable codes, standards, and benchmarks.
Identify potential water conservation strategies that can reduce the demand or increase the supply of water, such as low-flow fixtures, native landscaping, rainwater harvesting, graywater reuse, etc. Evaluate the feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benefits of each strategy using a life-cycle approach.
Select the most appropriate strategies and document how they inform the design decisions and meet the project goals.
Compare the projected water consumption with the baseline and calculate the percentage reduction.
Performing a preliminary water budget analysis before the completion of schematic design allows the LEED AP to identify opportunities for water efficiency and innovation early in the design process. It also helps to optimize the integration of water systems with other building and site systems, such as energy, materials, indoor environmental quality, etc. Moreover, it supports the achievement of other LEED credits related to water efficiency, such as WE Prerequisite 1: Outdoor Water Use Reduction, WE Prerequisite 2: Indoor Water Use Reduction, WE Credit 1: Outdoor Water Use Reduction, WE Credit 2: Indoor Water Use Reduction, WE Credit 3: Cooling Tower Water Use2.
Reference: Understanding Integrative Design in LEED v41
LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction2
A
Explanation:
When using the Integrative Process, the best way for the LEED AP to assess the impact of indoor and outdoor water consumption in a Building Design and Construction project is to perform a preliminary water budget analysis before the completion of schematic design. This analysis should include the following steps1:
Identify the project’s water sources and uses, such as potable water, reclaimed water, rainwater, graywater, blackwater, irrigation, cooling towers, etc.
Estimate the baseline water consumption for each use based on the applicable codes, standards, and benchmarks.
Identify potential water conservation strategies that can reduce the demand or increase the supply of water, such as low-flow fixtures, native landscaping, rainwater harvesting, graywater reuse, etc. Evaluate the feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benefits of each strategy using a life-cycle approach.
Select the most appropriate strategies and document how they inform the design decisions and meet the project goals.
Compare the projected water consumption with the baseline and calculate the percentage reduction.
Performing a preliminary water budget analysis before the completion of schematic design allows the LEED AP to identify opportunities for water efficiency and innovation early in the design process. It also helps to optimize the integration of water systems with other building and site systems, such as energy, materials, indoor environmental quality, etc. Moreover, it supports the achievement of other LEED credits related to water efficiency, such as WE Prerequisite 1: Outdoor Water Use Reduction, WE Prerequisite 2: Indoor Water Use Reduction, WE Credit 1: Outdoor Water Use Reduction, WE Credit 2: Indoor Water Use Reduction, WE Credit 3: Cooling Tower Water Use2.
Reference: Understanding Integrative Design in LEED v41
LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction2
Question #28
In the step-by-step guidance for Location and Transportation Credit, Bicycle Facilities, which of the following requirements can define a bicycle network?
- A . One-way streets
- B . Bike share
- C . Slow speed roadways
- D . Traffic lights
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction1, the Location and Transportation Credit, Bicycle Facilities, requires the project to provide short-term and long-term bicycle storage and a functional entry or bicycle storage within 200 yards of a bicycle network.
The bicycle network is defined as any one of the following:
Off-street bicycle paths or on-street bicycle lanes that are physically marked and separated from motor traffic
Streets designed for a target speed of 25 mph (40 km/h) or less, with traffic calming features such as curb extensions, speed humps, raised crossings, narrowed traffic lanes, median islands, tight corner radii, roundabouts, or landscaping
Streets with a legal speed limit of 25 mph (40 km/h) or less that connect to a larger bicycle network Therefore, among the given options, only slow speed roadways can define a bicycle network, as they can provide a safer and more comfortable environment for cyclists. One-way streets, bike share, and traffic lights are not sufficient to define a bicycle network, as they do not necessarily indicate the presence of bicycle paths, lanes, or low-speed streets.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 Bicycle facilities | U.S. Green Building Council CI-v4.1 LTc4: Bicycle facilities | LEEDuser
Understanding bikeability: a methodology to assess urban networks Bicycle Network | Making bike riding easier for everyone
C
Explanation:
According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction1, the Location and Transportation Credit, Bicycle Facilities, requires the project to provide short-term and long-term bicycle storage and a functional entry or bicycle storage within 200 yards of a bicycle network.
The bicycle network is defined as any one of the following:
Off-street bicycle paths or on-street bicycle lanes that are physically marked and separated from motor traffic
Streets designed for a target speed of 25 mph (40 km/h) or less, with traffic calming features such as curb extensions, speed humps, raised crossings, narrowed traffic lanes, median islands, tight corner radii, roundabouts, or landscaping
Streets with a legal speed limit of 25 mph (40 km/h) or less that connect to a larger bicycle network Therefore, among the given options, only slow speed roadways can define a bicycle network, as they can provide a safer and more comfortable environment for cyclists. One-way streets, bike share, and traffic lights are not sufficient to define a bicycle network, as they do not necessarily indicate the presence of bicycle paths, lanes, or low-speed streets.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 Bicycle facilities | U.S. Green Building Council CI-v4.1 LTc4: Bicycle facilities | LEEDuser
Understanding bikeability: a methodology to assess urban networks Bicycle Network | Making bike riding easier for everyone
Question #29
Which approach will contribute to maintaining compliance with Sustainable Sites Credit, Rainwater Management?
- A . Installing bioretention area
- B . Installing on-site renewable power generation facility
- C . Substituting impervious surface area with high-albedo paving materials
- D . Increase artificial turf on the roof
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Installing a bioretention area is an example of a low-impact development (LID) practice that can reduce runoff volume and improve water quality by replicating the natural hydrology and water balance of the site. This approach will contribute to maintaining compliance with Sustainable Sites Credit, Rainwater Management, which requires designing the site to retain the runoff from the developed site for at least the 80th percentile of rainfall events1.
Reference: Credit: Rainwater management | U.S. Green Building Council Achieving SSc Rainwater Management in LEED v4.1
A
Explanation:
Installing a bioretention area is an example of a low-impact development (LID) practice that can reduce runoff volume and improve water quality by replicating the natural hydrology and water balance of the site. This approach will contribute to maintaining compliance with Sustainable Sites Credit, Rainwater Management, which requires designing the site to retain the runoff from the developed site for at least the 80th percentile of rainfall events1.
Reference: Credit: Rainwater management | U.S. Green Building Council Achieving SSc Rainwater Management in LEED v4.1
Question #30
Which of the following strategies would be considered an acceptable minor improvement within the wetland buffer for Location and Transportation Credit, Sensitive Land Protection?
- A . Build a two-story fitness facility
- B . Change the grade to install a security fence
- C . Provide a vehicular access drive that is less than 16 ft. (5 m) in width
- D . Remove trees that are less than 6 inches (15.24 cm) diameter at breast height
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
Providing a vehicular access drive that is less than 16 ft. (5 m) in width is considered an acceptable minor improvement within the wetland buffer for Location and Transportation Credit, Sensitive Land Protection. This credit requires avoiding development on land that meets one or more of the following criteria: prime farmland, floodplains, threatened or endangered species habitat, water bodies, wetlands, or land within 100 feet (30 meters) of these water bodies or wetlands1. However, the credit allows minor improvements within the wetland buffer if they are necessary for the project and have minimal environmental impact2. Examples of minor improvements include trails, boardwalks, stormwater outfalls, and utility crossings2.
Reference: Credit: Sensitive land protection | U.S. Green Building Council
NC-v4.1 LTc2: Sensitive land protection | LEEDuser
C
Explanation:
Providing a vehicular access drive that is less than 16 ft. (5 m) in width is considered an acceptable minor improvement within the wetland buffer for Location and Transportation Credit, Sensitive Land Protection. This credit requires avoiding development on land that meets one or more of the following criteria: prime farmland, floodplains, threatened or endangered species habitat, water bodies, wetlands, or land within 100 feet (30 meters) of these water bodies or wetlands1. However, the credit allows minor improvements within the wetland buffer if they are necessary for the project and have minimal environmental impact2. Examples of minor improvements include trails, boardwalks, stormwater outfalls, and utility crossings2.
Reference: Credit: Sensitive land protection | U.S. Green Building Council
NC-v4.1 LTc2: Sensitive land protection | LEEDuser
Question #31
What reference standard is used to determine compliance with the Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Minimum Energy Performance when the whole building energy modeling option is used?
- A . ASHRAE 55-2010
- B . ASHRAE 90.1-2007
- C . ASHRAE 90.1-2010
- D . ASHRAE 62.1-2010
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
ASHRAE 90.1-2010 is the reference standard used to determine compliance with the Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Minimum Energy Performance when the whole building energy modeling option is used. This prerequisite requires demonstrating a 5% improvement in the proposed building performance rating compared to the baseline building performance rating per ASHRAE 90.1-2010, Appendix G1. The baseline building performance rating is based on a building design that meets the minimum requirements of ASHRAE 90.1-20102.
Reference: Prerequisite: Minimum energy performance | U.S. Green Building Council Minimum Energy Performance – ASHRAE 90.1 – 2010
C
Explanation:
ASHRAE 90.1-2010 is the reference standard used to determine compliance with the Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Minimum Energy Performance when the whole building energy modeling option is used. This prerequisite requires demonstrating a 5% improvement in the proposed building performance rating compared to the baseline building performance rating per ASHRAE 90.1-2010, Appendix G1. The baseline building performance rating is based on a building design that meets the minimum requirements of ASHRAE 90.1-20102.
Reference: Prerequisite: Minimum energy performance | U.S. Green Building Council Minimum Energy Performance – ASHRAE 90.1 – 2010
Question #32
Which is a benefit of earning Regional Priority credits?
- A . The LEED project can achieve more sustainable outcomes by recognizing the issues that are a priority in the project’s location
- B . The context of the project’s location is not addressed, allowing the project team to focus on the building’s priority issues
- C . The project’s operations are considered separately from design and construction, allowing the project team to focus on regional issues
- D . The LEED project is able to skip a review phase by considering the issues that are a priority in the project’s location
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
A benefit of earning Regional Priority credits is that the LEED project can achieve more sustainable outcomes by recognizing the issues that are a priority in the project’s location. Regional Priority credits are not new LEED credits, but instead are existing credits that USGBC regional councils and chapters have designated as being particularly important for their areas1. The incentive to achieve the credits is in the form of a bonus point. If an RP base credit is earned, then a bonus point is awarded to the project’s total points1. This way, the project can address the geographically specific environmental, social equity and public health priorities of its location2.
Reference: Regional priority credit lookup | U.S. Green Building Council Regional Priority (RP) credits C U.S. Green Building Council
A
Explanation:
A benefit of earning Regional Priority credits is that the LEED project can achieve more sustainable outcomes by recognizing the issues that are a priority in the project’s location. Regional Priority credits are not new LEED credits, but instead are existing credits that USGBC regional councils and chapters have designated as being particularly important for their areas1. The incentive to achieve the credits is in the form of a bonus point. If an RP base credit is earned, then a bonus point is awarded to the project’s total points1. This way, the project can address the geographically specific environmental, social equity and public health priorities of its location2.
Reference: Regional priority credit lookup | U.S. Green Building Council Regional Priority (RP) credits C U.S. Green Building Council
Question #33
A project elects to pursue Location and Transportation Credit, Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses, Option 2. Diverse Uses because of the project’s location in an amenity-rich area. The project features 18 uses overall, including at least four uses in three of the five use type categories.
What threshold must the project surpass in order to demonstrate exemplary performance for Option 2?
- A . Exemplary Performance is not available for Option 2
- B . 15 uses, including two uses in each of the five categories
- C . 15 uses, including at least one Food Retail and one Community Anchor use
- D . 18 uses, including uses in at least four of the five use type categories
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Exemplary Performance is not available for Option 2 of Location and Transportation Credit, Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses. According to the LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, this credit has two options: Option 1. Surrounding Density (5 points) and Option 2. Diverse Uses (1 point). Exemplary Performance is only available for Option 1, and it requires achieving a surrounding density of at least 405,000 square feet per acre (100,000 square meters per hectare)1. Option 2 does not have any Exemplary Performance criteria, and it only requires locating the project within a 1/2-mile
(800-meter) walking distance of at least seven diverse uses2.
Reference: Credit: Surrounding density and diverse uses | U.S. Green Building Council Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses – LEED v4
A
Explanation:
Exemplary Performance is not available for Option 2 of Location and Transportation Credit, Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses. According to the LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, this credit has two options: Option 1. Surrounding Density (5 points) and Option 2. Diverse Uses (1 point). Exemplary Performance is only available for Option 1, and it requires achieving a surrounding density of at least 405,000 square feet per acre (100,000 square meters per hectare)1. Option 2 does not have any Exemplary Performance criteria, and it only requires locating the project within a 1/2-mile
(800-meter) walking distance of at least seven diverse uses2.
Reference: Credit: Surrounding density and diverse uses | U.S. Green Building Council Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses – LEED v4
Question #34
Which of the following strategies can be used to reduce the internal load of a building?
- A . Decreasing lighting power
- B . Oversize the HVAC systems
- C . Install low reflective exterior facade
- D . Increase the insulating value of the glazing and window frame system
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Decreasing lighting power is a strategy that can be used to reduce the internal load of a building. Internal load is the amount of heat generated within a building by its occupants, equipment, and lighting1. Reducing lighting power can lower the internal heat gain and thus decrease the cooling demand and energy consumption of the building2. Other strategies to reduce internal load include using energy-efficient appliances, natural ventilation, daylighting, occupancy sensors, and shading devices3.
Reference: 8.1: Internal Loads – Engineering LibreTexts
Chapter 3: Design Loads for Residential Buildings – HUD User Internal Heat Gain – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics
A
Explanation:
Decreasing lighting power is a strategy that can be used to reduce the internal load of a building. Internal load is the amount of heat generated within a building by its occupants, equipment, and lighting1. Reducing lighting power can lower the internal heat gain and thus decrease the cooling demand and energy consumption of the building2. Other strategies to reduce internal load include using energy-efficient appliances, natural ventilation, daylighting, occupancy sensors, and shading devices3.
Reference: 8.1: Internal Loads – Engineering LibreTexts
Chapter 3: Design Loads for Residential Buildings – HUD User Internal Heat Gain – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics
Question #35
Discussing the project goals to help identify the credits and options that the team should attempt is an example of
- A . documenting LEED credits
- B . creating the Basis of Design (BOD)
- C . developing the LEED Scorecard
- D . implementing the Commissioning (Cx) Plan
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
Discussing the project goals to help identify the credits and options that the team should attempt is an example of developing the LEED Scorecard. The LEED Scorecard is a tool that shows the potential points that a project can achieve under each credit category of the LEED rating system1. Developing the LEED Scorecard involves selecting the most appropriate credits and options based on the project’s goals, location, budget, and design2. The scorecard helps the project team track their progress and prioritize their actions throughout the design and construction process1.
Reference: LEED scorecard | U.S. Green Building Council
LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide – U.S. Green Building Council
C
Explanation:
Discussing the project goals to help identify the credits and options that the team should attempt is an example of developing the LEED Scorecard. The LEED Scorecard is a tool that shows the potential points that a project can achieve under each credit category of the LEED rating system1. Developing the LEED Scorecard involves selecting the most appropriate credits and options based on the project’s goals, location, budget, and design2. The scorecard helps the project team track their progress and prioritize their actions throughout the design and construction process1.
Reference: LEED scorecard | U.S. Green Building Council
LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide – U.S. Green Building Council
Question #36
Which rating system is appropriate for a new mixed-use building with 300,000 ft2 (27 871 m2) of residential units, 150,000 ft2 (13 935 m2) hotel and 50,000 ft2 (4 645 m2) of retail space?
- A . Retail
- B . Hospitality
- C . Core and Shell Development
- D . New Construction
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
New Construction is the appropriate rating system for a new mixed-use building with 300,000 ft2 (27 871 m2) of residential units, 150,000 ft2 (13 935 m2) hotel and 50,000 ft2 (4 645 m2) of retail space. According to the LEED rating system selection guidance1, the New Construction rating system applies to buildings that are being newly constructed or going through a major renovation, and that include any of the following use types: office, retail, hospitality, education, residential, warehouse and distribution centers, or data centers2. The New Construction rating system can also be used for mixed-use buildings that have more than one use type3. Since the project involves new construction of a mixed-use building with residential, hospitality, and retail uses, the New Construction rating system is the most suitable option. The other rating systems are not applicable because they are either specific to one use type (Retail and Hospitality) or to buildings that are not complete at the time of certification (Core and Shell Development).
Reference: LEED rating system selection guidance | U.S. Green Building Council LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide – U.S. Green Building Council LEED v4 Rating Systems | USGBC-LI
D
Explanation:
New Construction is the appropriate rating system for a new mixed-use building with 300,000 ft2 (27 871 m2) of residential units, 150,000 ft2 (13 935 m2) hotel and 50,000 ft2 (4 645 m2) of retail space. According to the LEED rating system selection guidance1, the New Construction rating system applies to buildings that are being newly constructed or going through a major renovation, and that include any of the following use types: office, retail, hospitality, education, residential, warehouse and distribution centers, or data centers2. The New Construction rating system can also be used for mixed-use buildings that have more than one use type3. Since the project involves new construction of a mixed-use building with residential, hospitality, and retail uses, the New Construction rating system is the most suitable option. The other rating systems are not applicable because they are either specific to one use type (Retail and Hospitality) or to buildings that are not complete at the time of certification (Core and Shell Development).
Reference: LEED rating system selection guidance | U.S. Green Building Council LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide – U.S. Green Building Council LEED v4 Rating Systems | USGBC-LI
Question #37
The scope of analysis in Materials and Resources Credit, Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction, Option 4.
Whole-Building Life-Cycle Assessment is a
- A . gate-to-gate assessment
- B . cradle-to-gate assessment
- C . cradle-to-grave assessment
- D . cradle-to-cradle assessment
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
The scope of analysis in Materials and Resources Credit, Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction, Option 4. Whole-Building Life-Cycle Assessment is a cradle-to-grave assessment. This means that the life cycle assessment (LCA) covers all stages of the building’s life cycle, from the extraction of raw materials (cradle) to the disposal or reuse of the building components at the end of their service life (grave)1. The LCA must include the following life cycle stages: product stage, construction process stage, use stage, and end-of-life stage2. The LCA must also account for the environmental impacts of the building’s structure and enclosure, as well as any other building elements that are permanently attached to and share service systems with the building2.
Reference: Whole building life cycle assessment through LEED v4
Building life-cycle impact reduction | U.S. Green Building Council
C
Explanation:
The scope of analysis in Materials and Resources Credit, Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction, Option 4. Whole-Building Life-Cycle Assessment is a cradle-to-grave assessment. This means that the life cycle assessment (LCA) covers all stages of the building’s life cycle, from the extraction of raw materials (cradle) to the disposal or reuse of the building components at the end of their service life (grave)1. The LCA must include the following life cycle stages: product stage, construction process stage, use stage, and end-of-life stage2. The LCA must also account for the environmental impacts of the building’s structure and enclosure, as well as any other building elements that are permanently attached to and share service systems with the building2.
Reference: Whole building life cycle assessment through LEED v4
Building life-cycle impact reduction | U.S. Green Building Council
Question #38
The project landscape architect suggests reducing the area planned for surface parking and replacing it with additional vegetated space.
What benefit would this strategy provide to the owner?
- A . Increases the rainwater infiltration capacity
- B . Decreases the amount of bicycle parking that must be provided
- C . Increases the overall SR (solar reflectance) of the hardscape area
- D . Decreases the required amount of on-street parking that must be provided
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Reducing the area planned for surface parking and replacing it with additional vegetated space can provide several benefits to the owner, such as:
Decreasing the amount of bicycle parking that must be provided, since there will be less demand for parking spaces for cyclists.
Increasing the overall SR (solar reflectance) of the hardscape area, which can reduce the cooling load and energy consumption of the building.
Decreasing the required amount of on-street parking that must be provided, since there will be less demand for parking spaces for cars.
However, one of the most significant benefits of this strategy is increasing the rainwater infiltration capacity, which can improve the water quality and quantity in the stormwater system. According to a study by Biondolilo1, integrating green space into parking lots can decrease stormwater runoff, mitigate the heat island effect, store carbon, improve air quality and may have social benefits as well. The study estimated that converting 30% of Manhattan’s parking into green space would decrease runoff and pollutants from parking lots1. Therefore, this strategy can help reduce water demand and environmental impact in arid climates.
Reference: How Eliminating Parking Minimums Actually Makes Cities Better
Analyzing the benefits of reducing parking: improving public transportation to reduce parking demand and increase space for green infrastructure in Manhattan, Kansas
Benefits of Urban Vegetation and Green Spaces – BeautyHarmonyLife Reduce Urban Heat Island Effect | Green Infrastructure | US EPA
A
Explanation:
Reducing the area planned for surface parking and replacing it with additional vegetated space can provide several benefits to the owner, such as:
Decreasing the amount of bicycle parking that must be provided, since there will be less demand for parking spaces for cyclists.
Increasing the overall SR (solar reflectance) of the hardscape area, which can reduce the cooling load and energy consumption of the building.
Decreasing the required amount of on-street parking that must be provided, since there will be less demand for parking spaces for cars.
However, one of the most significant benefits of this strategy is increasing the rainwater infiltration capacity, which can improve the water quality and quantity in the stormwater system. According to a study by Biondolilo1, integrating green space into parking lots can decrease stormwater runoff, mitigate the heat island effect, store carbon, improve air quality and may have social benefits as well. The study estimated that converting 30% of Manhattan’s parking into green space would decrease runoff and pollutants from parking lots1. Therefore, this strategy can help reduce water demand and environmental impact in arid climates.
Reference: How Eliminating Parking Minimums Actually Makes Cities Better
Analyzing the benefits of reducing parking: improving public transportation to reduce parking demand and increase space for green infrastructure in Manhattan, Kansas
Benefits of Urban Vegetation and Green Spaces – BeautyHarmonyLife Reduce Urban Heat Island Effect | Green Infrastructure | US EPA
Question #39
The maximum number of points for Water Efficiency Credit, Cooling Tower Water Use can be obtained by
- A . utilizing a once-through system without recirculation
- B . limiting cooling tower make-up to 50% of a potable source
- C . conducting a one-time potable water analysis to determine acceptable non-potable sources
- D . achieving a minimum of 10 cooling tower cycles by increasing the level of make-up water treatment
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
Achieving a minimum of 10 cooling tower cycles by increasing the level of make-up water treatment is the way to obtain the maximum number of points for Water Efficiency Credit, Cooling Tower Water Use. This credit aims to conserve water used for cooling tower equipment by encouraging the use of non-potable water sources and increasing the cycles of concentration1. The cycles of concentration are the ratio of the concentration of dissolved solids in the blowdown water to the concentration of dissolved solids in the make-up water2. Increasing the cycles of concentration reduces the amount of make-up water and blowdown water, and thus saves water and energy2. The credit has two options: Option 1. Non-potable Water Source (1 point) and Option 2. Cooling Tower Water Use (2 points). Option 1 requires using at least 50% non-potable water for cooling tower make-up water1. Option 2 requires achieving a minimum number of cooling tower cycles based on the quality of the make-up water, as specified in Table 1 of the credit requirements1. The maximum number of cycles is 10, which can be achieved by increasing the level of make-up water treatment to meet the criteria for conductivity, silica, and alkalinity1. Therefore, Option 2 is the way to obtain the maximum number of points for this credit.
Reference: Credit: Cooling tower water use | U.S. Green Building Council Cooling Tower Evaporation Credits | WaterSignal
D
Explanation:
Achieving a minimum of 10 cooling tower cycles by increasing the level of make-up water treatment is the way to obtain the maximum number of points for Water Efficiency Credit, Cooling Tower Water Use. This credit aims to conserve water used for cooling tower equipment by encouraging the use of non-potable water sources and increasing the cycles of concentration1. The cycles of concentration are the ratio of the concentration of dissolved solids in the blowdown water to the concentration of dissolved solids in the make-up water2. Increasing the cycles of concentration reduces the amount of make-up water and blowdown water, and thus saves water and energy2. The credit has two options: Option 1. Non-potable Water Source (1 point) and Option 2. Cooling Tower Water Use (2 points). Option 1 requires using at least 50% non-potable water for cooling tower make-up water1. Option 2 requires achieving a minimum number of cooling tower cycles based on the quality of the make-up water, as specified in Table 1 of the credit requirements1. The maximum number of cycles is 10, which can be achieved by increasing the level of make-up water treatment to meet the criteria for conductivity, silica, and alkalinity1. Therefore, Option 2 is the way to obtain the maximum number of points for this credit.
Reference: Credit: Cooling tower water use | U.S. Green Building Council Cooling Tower Evaporation Credits | WaterSignal
Question #40
What are the Storage and Collection of Recyclables requirements for only Retail projects under the Materials and Resources Prerequisite?
- A . Retail projects must conduct a waste stream audit for the duration of the project in an existing location or make projections based on historical data for similar establishments. Identify the top-five recyclable waste streams while stating the top-four waste streams where both collection and storage space will be provided
- B . Retail projects must conduct a waste stream audit once a month for the project in an existing or rented location or make projections based on data gathered from a previous cycle. Identify the top-three recyclable waste streams while stating the top-two waste streams where both collection and storage space will be provided
- C . Retail projects must conduct a waste stream audit twice a year for the project in an existing or rented location or make projections based on the previous year’s data for their business. Identify the top-four recyclable waste streams while stating the top-three waste streams where both collection and storage space will be provided
- D . Retail projects must conduct a waste stream audit for the once a year for the project in an existing or rented location or make projections based on the previous year’s data for their business. Identify the top-four recyclable waste streams while stating the top-three waste streams where both collection and storage space will be provided
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Retail projects must conduct a waste stream audit for the duration of the project in an existing location or make projections based on historical data for similar establishments. Identify the top-five recyclable waste streams while stating the top-four waste streams where both collection and storage space will be provided. This is the requirement for Retail projects under the Materials and Resources Prerequisite, Storage and Collection of Recyclables, according to the LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide1. The purpose of this prerequisite is to facilitate the reduction of waste generated by building occupants that is hauled to and disposed of in landfills1. The prerequisite applies to all LEED BD+C projects, but Retail projects have a different approach than other project types because of their unique waste streams and operational characteristics1. Retail projects must conduct a waste stream audit for the duration of the project in an existing location or make projections based on historical data for similar establishments. The audit or projection must identify the top-five recyclable waste streams by weight or volume using consistent metrics throughout1. The waste stream study period must be a minimum of 24 hours1. Retail projects must also provide dedicated areas that serve the entire building and are accessible to waste haulers and building occupants for the collection and storage of materials for recycling for at least four of the top-five recyclable waste streams identified by the audit or projection1.
Reference: Prerequisite: Storage and collection of recyclables | U.S. Green Building Council
A
Explanation:
Retail projects must conduct a waste stream audit for the duration of the project in an existing location or make projections based on historical data for similar establishments. Identify the top-five recyclable waste streams while stating the top-four waste streams where both collection and storage space will be provided. This is the requirement for Retail projects under the Materials and Resources Prerequisite, Storage and Collection of Recyclables, according to the LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide1. The purpose of this prerequisite is to facilitate the reduction of waste generated by building occupants that is hauled to and disposed of in landfills1. The prerequisite applies to all LEED BD+C projects, but Retail projects have a different approach than other project types because of their unique waste streams and operational characteristics1. Retail projects must conduct a waste stream audit for the duration of the project in an existing location or make projections based on historical data for similar establishments. The audit or projection must identify the top-five recyclable waste streams by weight or volume using consistent metrics throughout1. The waste stream study period must be a minimum of 24 hours1. Retail projects must also provide dedicated areas that serve the entire building and are accessible to waste haulers and building occupants for the collection and storage of materials for recycling for at least four of the top-five recyclable waste streams identified by the audit or projection1.
Reference: Prerequisite: Storage and collection of recyclables | U.S. Green Building Council
Question #41
At the time of registering a project in LEED Online, Regional Priority credits are determined based upon the project’s
- A . environmental zone
- B . longitude and latitude
- C . ASHRAE 90.1 – 2010 climate zone
- D . Environmental Protection Agency Phase I Assessment
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
At the time of registering a project in LEED Online, Regional Priority credits are determined based on the project’s longitude and latitude. Regional Priority credits are bonus points that reward projects for addressing the environmental, social, and public health issues that are most relevant to their location1. The project team must enter the project’s address and confirm the precise location using the Google Maps interface in LEED Online2. The longitude and latitude coordinates are then used to identify the Regional Priority credits that are applicable to the project2. The project can earn up to four Regional Priority points by achieving the base credits that correspond to the Regional Priority credits1.
Reference: Regional priority credit lookup | U.S. Green Building Council Regional Priority (RP) credits C U.S. Green Building Council
B
Explanation:
At the time of registering a project in LEED Online, Regional Priority credits are determined based on the project’s longitude and latitude. Regional Priority credits are bonus points that reward projects for addressing the environmental, social, and public health issues that are most relevant to their location1. The project team must enter the project’s address and confirm the precise location using the Google Maps interface in LEED Online2. The longitude and latitude coordinates are then used to identify the Regional Priority credits that are applicable to the project2. The project can earn up to four Regional Priority points by achieving the base credits that correspond to the Regional Priority credits1.
Reference: Regional priority credit lookup | U.S. Green Building Council Regional Priority (RP) credits C U.S. Green Building Council
Question #42
Which of the following activities must be prohibited within a building as a prerequisite to LEED certification?
- A . Burning fossil fuels
- B . Smoking tobacco products
- C . Preparing non-organic foods
- D . Manufacturing toxic chemicals
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
Smoking tobacco products must be prohibited within a building as a prerequisite to LEED certification, according to the Indoor Environmental Quality Prerequisite, Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control1. This prerequisite aims to prevent or minimize exposure of building occupants, indoor surfaces, and ventilation air distribution systems to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), which is a known human carcinogen and a source of indoor air pollution2. The prerequisite requires the project to meet one of the following options:
Option 1. No Smoking. Prohibit smoking in the building and within 25 feet (8 meters) of all entries, outdoor air intakes, and operable windows.
Option 2. Smoking Areas. Designate smoking areas outside the building and at least 25 feet (8 meters) from all entries, outdoor air intakes, and operable windows. If smoking areas are enclosed, they must be negatively pressurized and vented directly to the outdoors. Prohibit smoking in all common areas of residential buildings and provide signage to indicate smoking and nonsmoking areas.
The other activities, such as burning fossil fuels, preparing non-organic foods, and manufacturing toxic chemicals, are not explicitly prohibited by any LEED prerequisites, although they may have negative impacts on the environment, health, and energy performance of the building.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4
Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control | U.S. Green Building Council Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) – World Health Organization Environmental Tobacco Smoke – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics
B
Explanation:
Smoking tobacco products must be prohibited within a building as a prerequisite to LEED certification, according to the Indoor Environmental Quality Prerequisite, Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control1. This prerequisite aims to prevent or minimize exposure of building occupants, indoor surfaces, and ventilation air distribution systems to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), which is a known human carcinogen and a source of indoor air pollution2. The prerequisite requires the project to meet one of the following options:
Option 1. No Smoking. Prohibit smoking in the building and within 25 feet (8 meters) of all entries, outdoor air intakes, and operable windows.
Option 2. Smoking Areas. Designate smoking areas outside the building and at least 25 feet (8 meters) from all entries, outdoor air intakes, and operable windows. If smoking areas are enclosed, they must be negatively pressurized and vented directly to the outdoors. Prohibit smoking in all common areas of residential buildings and provide signage to indicate smoking and nonsmoking areas.
The other activities, such as burning fossil fuels, preparing non-organic foods, and manufacturing toxic chemicals, are not explicitly prohibited by any LEED prerequisites, although they may have negative impacts on the environment, health, and energy performance of the building.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4
Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control | U.S. Green Building Council Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) – World Health Organization Environmental Tobacco Smoke – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics
Question #43
What is a benefit of including the public in a charrette for a new school before the pre-design phase?
- A . Neighbors can plan for future construction
- B . It will help streamline the permitting process
- C . Potential partnerships with the community can be revealed
- D . The owner can determine financial strategies based on the public’s input
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
A charrette is a collaborative design process that involves multiple stakeholders, such as the owner, the design team, the community, and the users. By including the public in a charrette for a new school before the pre-design phase, potential partnerships with the community can be revealed. For example, the school might share facilities or resources with a nearby library, park, or community center. This can enhance the social and environmental benefits of the project, as well as reduce costs and increase efficiency.
Reference: LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Introduction, page 171; LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Integrative Process, page 291
C
Explanation:
A charrette is a collaborative design process that involves multiple stakeholders, such as the owner, the design team, the community, and the users. By including the public in a charrette for a new school before the pre-design phase, potential partnerships with the community can be revealed. For example, the school might share facilities or resources with a nearby library, park, or community center. This can enhance the social and environmental benefits of the project, as well as reduce costs and increase efficiency.
Reference: LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Introduction, page 171; LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Integrative Process, page 291
Question #44
Which of the following contributes to the value of the commissioning process?
- A . Ensuring that the project budgetary goal is met
- B . Verifying that the building systems perform as intended
- C . Verifying that the building water fixtures are installed properly
- D . Ensuring that the project is delivered to meet the permitting requirements
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The commissioning process is a quality assurance process that ensures that the building systems perform as intended, based on the owner’s project requirements and the design team’s basis of design. The commissioning process can provide value to the project by improving energy efficiency, reducing operation and maintenance costs, enhancing occupant comfort and satisfaction, and reducing risks and liabilities123.
Reference: LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Energy and Atmosphere, page 631; LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Enhanced Commissioning, page 661; LEED Building Commissioning: Why You Should Get Accredited
B
Explanation:
The commissioning process is a quality assurance process that ensures that the building systems perform as intended, based on the owner’s project requirements and the design team’s basis of design. The commissioning process can provide value to the project by improving energy efficiency, reducing operation and maintenance costs, enhancing occupant comfort and satisfaction, and reducing risks and liabilities123.
Reference: LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Energy and Atmosphere, page 631; LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Enhanced Commissioning, page 661; LEED Building Commissioning: Why You Should Get Accredited
Question #45
What LEED Building Design and Construction rating system mandates a preliminary LEED meeting with the principal members of the project team to create a LEED action plan that includes the anticipated certification tier, targeted credits and parties responsible for each credit?
- A . Healthcare
- B . Schools
- C . Data centers
- D . Hospitality
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
Data centers is the only LEED BD+C rating system that mandates a preliminary LEED meeting with the principal members of the project team to create a LEED action plan that includes the anticipated certification tier, targeted credits and parties responsible for each credit. This is because data centers have unique design and operational characteristics that require a more integrative and customized approach to achieve LEED certification. The preliminary LEED meeting is intended to facilitate early goal setting, alignment, and communication among the project team members12.
Reference: LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Data Centers, page 91; LEED v4.1 BD+C: Data Centers
C
Explanation:
Data centers is the only LEED BD+C rating system that mandates a preliminary LEED meeting with the principal members of the project team to create a LEED action plan that includes the anticipated certification tier, targeted credits and parties responsible for each credit. This is because data centers have unique design and operational characteristics that require a more integrative and customized approach to achieve LEED certification. The preliminary LEED meeting is intended to facilitate early goal setting, alignment, and communication among the project team members12.
Reference: LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Data Centers, page 91; LEED v4.1 BD+C: Data Centers
Question #46
Which of these is a method to assess the regional context of a building’s design for sustainability?
- A . Conducting a site analysis
- B . Consulting with neighbors
- C . Improving a design threshold
- D . Performing an energy analysis of the building
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Conducting a site analysis is a method to assess the regional context of a building’s design for sustainability. A site analysis involves collecting and evaluating information about the site’s location, climate, ecology, history, culture, infrastructure, regulations, and stakeholders. This can help identify the opportunities and constraints for the project, as well as the potential impacts and benefits for the environment and the community. A site analysis can inform the design decisions regarding site selection, site development, water management, energy efficiency, material selection, indoor environmental quality, and innovation12.
Reference: LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Integrative Process, page 281; Site Analysis for Construction
A
Explanation:
Conducting a site analysis is a method to assess the regional context of a building’s design for sustainability. A site analysis involves collecting and evaluating information about the site’s location, climate, ecology, history, culture, infrastructure, regulations, and stakeholders. This can help identify the opportunities and constraints for the project, as well as the potential impacts and benefits for the environment and the community. A site analysis can inform the design decisions regarding site selection, site development, water management, energy efficiency, material selection, indoor environmental quality, and innovation12.
Reference: LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Integrative Process, page 281; Site Analysis for Construction
Question #47
To achieve the Sustainable Sites Credit, Light Pollution Reduction, Option 1. BUG Rating Method, projects must demonstrate
- A . all luminaires have full cutoff fixtures
- B . all luminaires have a minimum color temperature of 3500 K
- C . all luminaires meet acceptable fixture ratings for the project’s Model Lighting Ordnance (MLO) lighting zone
- D . all luminaires are mounted at least three mounting heights from the lighting boundary
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
To achieve the Sustainable Sites Credit, Light Pollution Reduction, Option 1. BUG Rating Method, projects must demonstrate that all luminaires meet acceptable fixture ratings for the project’s Model Lighting Ordnance (MLO) lighting zone. The MLO lighting zone is determined by the site-specific characteristics and the definitions provided in the IES/IDA MLO User Guide1. The fixture ratings are based on the backlight-uplight-glare (BUG) system, which measures the amount of light emitted in different directions by a luminaire, as defined in IES TM-15-11, Addendum A2. The maximum allowable ratings for each lighting zone are given in Table 1 of the credit language3.
Reference: IES/IDA MLO User Guide; IES TM-15-11, Addendum A; Light pollution reduction
C
Explanation:
To achieve the Sustainable Sites Credit, Light Pollution Reduction, Option 1. BUG Rating Method, projects must demonstrate that all luminaires meet acceptable fixture ratings for the project’s Model Lighting Ordnance (MLO) lighting zone. The MLO lighting zone is determined by the site-specific characteristics and the definitions provided in the IES/IDA MLO User Guide1. The fixture ratings are based on the backlight-uplight-glare (BUG) system, which measures the amount of light emitted in different directions by a luminaire, as defined in IES TM-15-11, Addendum A2. The maximum allowable ratings for each lighting zone are given in Table 1 of the credit language3.
Reference: IES/IDA MLO User Guide; IES TM-15-11, Addendum A; Light pollution reduction
Question #48
A tenant of a new office building will require 100 workstations per floor. Each floor will have two bathroom facilities and one conference room.
How many lighting control devices with at least three lighting levels per floor are required to comply with Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Interior Lighting, Option 1. Lighting Control?
- A . 91 lighting control devices
- B . 93 lighting control devices
- C . 100 lighting control devices
- D . 103 lighting control devices
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
To comply with Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Interior Lighting, Option 1. Lighting Control, the tenant of a new office building will require 93 lighting control devices with at least three lighting levels per floor. This is because the credit requires that at least 90% of individual occupant spaces have lighting controls that enable occupants to adjust the lighting to suit their individual tasks and preferences1. The credit also requires that all shared multioccupant spaces have lighting controls that enable adjustments that meet the needs of the group1. According to the LEED BD+C Reference Guide, an individual occupant space is defined as an enclosed space or an open space that is occupied by one person and is at least 50 square feet (4.6 square meters) in area1. A shared multioccupant space is defined as an enclosed or open space that is occupied by more than one person and is at least 100 square feet (9.3 square meters) in area1.
Based on the given information, each workstation can be considered as an individual occupant space,
and each bathroom facility and conference room can be considered as a shared multioccupant space.
Therefore, the number of lighting control devices per floor can be calculated as follows:
For the 100 workstations, 90% of them need lighting controls, which is 90 workstations. Each workstation needs one lighting control device, so the total number of lighting control devices for the workstations is 90.
For the two bathroom facilities, each facility needs one lighting control device, so the total number of lighting control devices for the bathroom facilities is 2.
For the one conference room, one lighting control device is needed, so the total number of lighting control devices for the conference room is 1.
The total number of lighting control devices per floor is then 90 + 2 + 1 = 93.
Reference: Interior lighting
B
Explanation:
To comply with Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Interior Lighting, Option 1. Lighting Control, the tenant of a new office building will require 93 lighting control devices with at least three lighting levels per floor. This is because the credit requires that at least 90% of individual occupant spaces have lighting controls that enable occupants to adjust the lighting to suit their individual tasks and preferences1. The credit also requires that all shared multioccupant spaces have lighting controls that enable adjustments that meet the needs of the group1. According to the LEED BD+C Reference Guide, an individual occupant space is defined as an enclosed space or an open space that is occupied by one person and is at least 50 square feet (4.6 square meters) in area1. A shared multioccupant space is defined as an enclosed or open space that is occupied by more than one person and is at least 100 square feet (9.3 square meters) in area1.
Based on the given information, each workstation can be considered as an individual occupant space,
and each bathroom facility and conference room can be considered as a shared multioccupant space.
Therefore, the number of lighting control devices per floor can be calculated as follows:
For the 100 workstations, 90% of them need lighting controls, which is 90 workstations. Each workstation needs one lighting control device, so the total number of lighting control devices for the workstations is 90.
For the two bathroom facilities, each facility needs one lighting control device, so the total number of lighting control devices for the bathroom facilities is 2.
For the one conference room, one lighting control device is needed, so the total number of lighting control devices for the conference room is 1.
The total number of lighting control devices per floor is then 90 + 2 + 1 = 93.
Reference: Interior lighting
Question #49
Which of the following standards needs to be followed to comply with Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Thermal Comfort?
- A . ASHRAE 55-2010
- B . ASHRAE 62.1-2010
- C . ASHRAE 90.1-2010
- D . ASHRAE 189.1-2010
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
To comply with Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Thermal Comfort, the standard that needs to be followed is ASHRAE 55-2010, Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy, with errata or a local equivalent1. This standard specifies the combinations of indoor thermal environmental factors and personal factors that will produce thermal environmental conditions acceptable to a majority of the occupants within the space2. The standard also provides methods for measuring and evaluating thermal comfort, as well as guidance for design, operation, and maintenance of thermal comfort systems2.
Reference: Thermal comfort; ASHRAE 55-2010
A
Explanation:
To comply with Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Thermal Comfort, the standard that needs to be followed is ASHRAE 55-2010, Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy, with errata or a local equivalent1. This standard specifies the combinations of indoor thermal environmental factors and personal factors that will produce thermal environmental conditions acceptable to a majority of the occupants within the space2. The standard also provides methods for measuring and evaluating thermal comfort, as well as guidance for design, operation, and maintenance of thermal comfort systems2.
Reference: Thermal comfort; ASHRAE 55-2010
Question #50
Which of the following documents contains the design team’s interpretation of the Owner’s Project Requirements?
- A . Basis of Design (BOD)
- B . Simple Box Energy Model Analysis
- C . System’s manual
- D . Integrated Project Delivery report
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
The Basis of Design (BOD) is the document that contains the design team’s interpretation of the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The BOD describes the proposed systems and how they will meet the OPR, as well as the assumptions and criteria used for the design. The BOD is a key document for the Integrative Process credit and the Enhanced Commissioning credit in LEED BD+C12.
Reference: LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Integrative Process, page 301; LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Enhanced Commissioning, page 681
A
Explanation:
The Basis of Design (BOD) is the document that contains the design team’s interpretation of the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The BOD describes the proposed systems and how they will meet the OPR, as well as the assumptions and criteria used for the design. The BOD is a key document for the Integrative Process credit and the Enhanced Commissioning credit in LEED BD+C12.
Reference: LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Integrative Process, page 301; LEED BD+C Reference Guide, Enhanced Commissioning, page 681
Question #51
For Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Advanced Energy Metering, what is the minimum amount of time that the metering system should store data?
- A . 6 months
- B . 12 months
- C . 24 months
- D . 36 months
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
For Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Advanced Energy Metering, the minimum amount of time that the metering system should store data is 36 months. This is to ensure that the data can be used for long-term analysis and verification of energy performance1. The credit also requires that the metering system be capable of transmitting data to a remote location and reporting energy use at least hourly1.
Reference: Advanced energy metering
D
Explanation:
For Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Advanced Energy Metering, the minimum amount of time that the metering system should store data is 36 months. This is to ensure that the data can be used for long-term analysis and verification of energy performance1. The credit also requires that the metering system be capable of transmitting data to a remote location and reporting energy use at least hourly1.
Reference: Advanced energy metering
Question #52
Which energy efficient lamp type is free from mercury?
- A . Compact Fluorescent
- B . High Pressure Sodium
- C . Light Emitting Diode
- D . T-8 Fluorescent
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
Light Emitting Diode (LED) is an energy efficient lamp type that is free from mercury. Mercury is a toxic metal that can pose health and environmental risks when released from broken or discarded lamps. LED lamps do not contain mercury or other hazardous substances, and they also have longer lifespans and lower energy consumption than other lamp types12.
Reference: No mercury Lights | LEEDuser; LED Lighting
C
Explanation:
Light Emitting Diode (LED) is an energy efficient lamp type that is free from mercury. Mercury is a toxic metal that can pose health and environmental risks when released from broken or discarded lamps. LED lamps do not contain mercury or other hazardous substances, and they also have longer lifespans and lower energy consumption than other lamp types12.
Reference: No mercury Lights | LEEDuser; LED Lighting
Question #53
Which of the following will contribute to reducing the heat island effect?
- A . Artificial turf grass
- B . Intensive vegetated roof
- C . Steep sloped roof with initial SRI of 35
- D . Low sloped roof with initial Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) of 64
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
An intensive vegetated roof is a roof that has a thick layer of soil and plants that provide shade, evapotranspiration, and stormwater management. It can reduce the heat island effect by lowering the surface and air temperature of the roof and the surrounding area. Artificial turf grass does not reduce the heat island effect because it is not a living plant and does not provide cooling benefits. A steep sloped roof with initial SRI of 35 does not meet the minimum requirement of 39 for Option 1 or 32 for Option 2 of the Heat Island Reduction credit. A low sloped roof with initial SRI of 64 exceeds the minimum requirement of 82 for Option 1 or 64 for Option 2, but it is not the best option among the choices because it only reflects solar radiation and does not provide other benefits such as shading, evapotranspiration, and stormwater management.
Reference: Heat Island Reduction credit in LEED BD+C: New Construction v4.1 – LEED v4.11
SpecTopics: Heat Island Reduction Credit and LEED® V4/V4.12
LEED Principle: Urban Heat Island Mitigation and Roofing3
B
Explanation:
An intensive vegetated roof is a roof that has a thick layer of soil and plants that provide shade, evapotranspiration, and stormwater management. It can reduce the heat island effect by lowering the surface and air temperature of the roof and the surrounding area. Artificial turf grass does not reduce the heat island effect because it is not a living plant and does not provide cooling benefits. A steep sloped roof with initial SRI of 35 does not meet the minimum requirement of 39 for Option 1 or 32 for Option 2 of the Heat Island Reduction credit. A low sloped roof with initial SRI of 64 exceeds the minimum requirement of 82 for Option 1 or 64 for Option 2, but it is not the best option among the choices because it only reflects solar radiation and does not provide other benefits such as shading, evapotranspiration, and stormwater management.
Reference: Heat Island Reduction credit in LEED BD+C: New Construction v4.1 – LEED v4.11
SpecTopics: Heat Island Reduction Credit and LEED® V4/V4.12
LEED Principle: Urban Heat Island Mitigation and Roofing3
Question #54
In the calculations for Water Efficiency Credit, Outdoor Water Use Reduction, food gardens
- A . must be calculated using at least 20% from an alternative water source
- B . must be calculated using 100% potable water
- C . may be included or excluded from the calculations
- D . may be calculated using a standard 20% reduction from baseline
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
Food gardens may be included or excluded from the calculations for Water Efficiency Credit, Outdoor Water Use Reduction, as per the project team’s discretion. If included, food gardens must be calculated using 100% potable water. If excluded, food gardens must be irrigated with 100% captured rainwater, recycled graywater, or water treated and conveyed by a public agency specifically for nonpotable uses.
Reference: Outdoor Water Use Reduction credit in LEED BD+C: New Construction v4.1 – LEED v4.11 LEED v4 BD+C WE Guide2
C
Explanation:
Food gardens may be included or excluded from the calculations for Water Efficiency Credit, Outdoor Water Use Reduction, as per the project team’s discretion. If included, food gardens must be calculated using 100% potable water. If excluded, food gardens must be irrigated with 100% captured rainwater, recycled graywater, or water treated and conveyed by a public agency specifically for nonpotable uses.
Reference: Outdoor Water Use Reduction credit in LEED BD+C: New Construction v4.1 – LEED v4.11 LEED v4 BD+C WE Guide2
Question #55
The WaterSense label or local equivalent requirement in Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Indoor Water Use Reduction ensures that eligible newly installed plumbing fixtures will
- A . be advertised as LEED compliant
- B . be both water efficient and high performing
- C . comply with mandatory federal government regulations
- D . comply with all international plumbing system requirements
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The WaterSense label or local equivalent requirement in Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Indoor Water Use Reduction ensures that eligible newly installed plumbing fixtures will be both water efficient and high performing. The WaterSense label is a voluntary program by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that identifies and promotes water-efficient products that meet EPA’s specifications for water efficiency and performance. The label applies to tank-type toilets, water-using urinals, private lavatory faucets, and showerheads. For projects outside the U.S., local equivalents may be used if they meet the same criteria as WaterSense or are listed on the USGBC website. The label does not imply that the fixtures are LEED compliant, comply with mandatory federal government regulations, or comply with all international plumbing system requirements.
Reference: Water Efficiency Prerequisite: Indoor Water Use Reduction in LEED BD+C: New Construction v4.1 – LEED v4.11
What is the WaterSense Label and How Does it Apply?2
LEED QUALIFICATION GUIDE – v43
WaterSense Labeled Homes4
B
Explanation:
The WaterSense label or local equivalent requirement in Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Indoor Water Use Reduction ensures that eligible newly installed plumbing fixtures will be both water efficient and high performing. The WaterSense label is a voluntary program by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that identifies and promotes water-efficient products that meet EPA’s specifications for water efficiency and performance. The label applies to tank-type toilets, water-using urinals, private lavatory faucets, and showerheads. For projects outside the U.S., local equivalents may be used if they meet the same criteria as WaterSense or are listed on the USGBC website. The label does not imply that the fixtures are LEED compliant, comply with mandatory federal government regulations, or comply with all international plumbing system requirements.
Reference: Water Efficiency Prerequisite: Indoor Water Use Reduction in LEED BD+C: New Construction v4.1 – LEED v4.11
What is the WaterSense Label and How Does it Apply?2
LEED QUALIFICATION GUIDE – v43
WaterSense Labeled Homes4
Question #56
Which of the following products are eligible for a WaterSense label?
- A . Tankless toilets
- B . Waterless urinals
- C . Public lavatory faucets
- D . Private lavatory faucets
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
Private lavatory faucets are eligible for a WaterSense label, provided they meet EPA’s specifications for water efficiency and performance, and are backed by independent, third-party certification. Tankless toilets, waterless urinals, and public lavatory faucets are not eligible for a WaterSense label because they are not included in the product categories that WaterSense covers. WaterSense currently labels products in the following categories: tank-type toilets, water-using urinals, private lavatory faucets, showerheads, irrigation controllers, spray sprinkler bodies, and pre-rinse spray valves.
Reference: WaterSense Products | US EPA1
The WaterSense Label | US EPA2
Water Sense Labeling | LEEDuser3
Labeled Faucet Questions | WaterSense | US EPA4
What is the WaterSense Label and How Does it Apply?5
D
Explanation:
Private lavatory faucets are eligible for a WaterSense label, provided they meet EPA’s specifications for water efficiency and performance, and are backed by independent, third-party certification. Tankless toilets, waterless urinals, and public lavatory faucets are not eligible for a WaterSense label because they are not included in the product categories that WaterSense covers. WaterSense currently labels products in the following categories: tank-type toilets, water-using urinals, private lavatory faucets, showerheads, irrigation controllers, spray sprinkler bodies, and pre-rinse spray valves.
Reference: WaterSense Products | US EPA1
The WaterSense Label | US EPA2
Water Sense Labeling | LEEDuser3
Labeled Faucet Questions | WaterSense | US EPA4
What is the WaterSense Label and How Does it Apply?5
Question #57
For schools intended for grades eight and below (or ages 14 and below), which of the following scenarios would demonstrate compliance with Location and Transportation Credit, Access to Quality Transit, Schools, Option 2. Pedestrian Access?
- A . 30% of the students live no more than a 3/4 mi. (1.20 km) walking distance from a functional entry of a school building
- B . 50% of the students live no more than a 3/4 mi. (1.20 km) walking distance from a functional entry of a school building
- C . 30% of the students live no more than a 1 1/2 mi. (2.40 km) walking distance from a functional entry of a school building
- D . 50% of the students live no more than a 1 1/2 mi. (2.40 km) walking distance from a functional entry of a school building
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
For schools intended for grades eight and below (or ages 14 and below), Option 2. Pedestrian Access requires that at least 50% of the students live no more than a 3/4 mi. (1.20 km) walking distance from a functional entry of a school building. This option aims to encourage schools to locate in areas where students can walk or bike to school, reducing vehicle trips and emissions, and promoting physical activity and health. Option 2 is available only for projects that do not meet the requirements of Option 1. Transit-Served Location, which requires access to quality transit service within a 1/4 mi.
(400 m) walking distance for at least 50% of the students.
Reference: Access to Quality Transit credit in LEED BD+C: Schools v4 – LEED v41
LEED Certification- Requirements for LT CREDIT: ACCESS TO QUALITY TRANSIT2
Understanding the LEED BD+C: Location and Transport credit3
B
Explanation:
For schools intended for grades eight and below (or ages 14 and below), Option 2. Pedestrian Access requires that at least 50% of the students live no more than a 3/4 mi. (1.20 km) walking distance from a functional entry of a school building. This option aims to encourage schools to locate in areas where students can walk or bike to school, reducing vehicle trips and emissions, and promoting physical activity and health. Option 2 is available only for projects that do not meet the requirements of Option 1. Transit-Served Location, which requires access to quality transit service within a 1/4 mi.
(400 m) walking distance for at least 50% of the students.
Reference: Access to Quality Transit credit in LEED BD+C: Schools v4 – LEED v41
LEED Certification- Requirements for LT CREDIT: ACCESS TO QUALITY TRANSIT2
Understanding the LEED BD+C: Location and Transport credit3
Question #58
The owner has stated a desire to provide a variety of non-automobile commuting options for the future occupants.
What credits should the LEED AP suggest to meet this goal?
- A . Sustainable Sites Credit, Heat Island Reduction and Location and Transportation Credit, Bicycle Facilities
- B . Location and Transportation Credit, Access to Quality Transit and Location and Transportation Credit, Sensitive Land Protection
- C . Location and Transportation Credit, Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses and Sustainable Sites Credit, Open Space
- D . Location and Transportation Credit, Reduced Parking Footprint and Location and Transportation Credit, Access to Quality Transit
Correct Answer: D
Question #59
Which of the following strategies is allowed under Energy Atmosphere Credit, Renewable Energy Production, and will help a project achieve Energy Atmosphere Credit, Optimize Energy Performance?
- A . Install an on-site photovoltaic array
- B . Purchase Green-e certified carbon offsets
- C . Purchase Green-e certified Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs)
- D . Install a ground-source heat pump
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Install an on-site photovoltaic array
Installing an on-site photovoltaic array is a direct method to produce renewable energy on the project site, which can be used to achieve points under the Energy Atmosphere Credit for Renewable Energy Production. Additionally, it contributes to optimizing energy performance by generating clean electricity on-site and reducing the need for energy from non-renewable sources.
Reference: As per the LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) V4 resources, the installation of on-site renewable energy systems like photovoltaic arrays is encouraged to reduce environmental impacts and improve a building’s energy performance. This aligns with the goals of both the Renewable Energy Production and Optimize Energy Performance credits under the LEED rating system. For more detailed information, you can refer to the web-based reference guide in the credit library at USGBC’s official website.
A
Explanation:
Install an on-site photovoltaic array
Installing an on-site photovoltaic array is a direct method to produce renewable energy on the project site, which can be used to achieve points under the Energy Atmosphere Credit for Renewable Energy Production. Additionally, it contributes to optimizing energy performance by generating clean electricity on-site and reducing the need for energy from non-renewable sources.
Reference: As per the LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) V4 resources, the installation of on-site renewable energy systems like photovoltaic arrays is encouraged to reduce environmental impacts and improve a building’s energy performance. This aligns with the goals of both the Renewable Energy Production and Optimize Energy Performance credits under the LEED rating system. For more detailed information, you can refer to the web-based reference guide in the credit library at USGBC’s official website.
Question #60
A LEED AP submitted a Preliminary Design and Construction review and has received a review comment and technical advice on Materials and Resources Prerequisite, Construction and Demolition Waste Management Planning.
Which of the following actions should the LEED AP do if the project continues to pursue LEED certification?
- A . Revise the documentation and resubmit the form
- B . Abandon meeting this prerequisite
- C . Submit an appeal to Green Business Certification Inc.
- D . Ask the General Contractor to be more aggressive with recycling goals
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Revise the documentation and resubmit the form If a project receives a review comment and technical advice on a prerequisite, it means that the documentation submitted was incomplete, inaccurate, or unclear, and that the project team needs to address the issues raised by the reviewer and provide additional information or clarification. The project team should revise the documentation and resubmit the form as part of the final review to demonstrate compliance with the prerequisite requirements. Abandoning meeting this prerequisite is not an option, as prerequisites are mandatory for LEED certification. Submitting an appeal to Green Business Certification Inc. is only applicable if the project team disagrees with the reviewer’s decision or interpretation, and has additional evidence or arguments to support their claim. Asking the General Contractor to be more aggressive with recycling goals is not relevant to this prerequisite, as it does not address the documentation issue.
Reference: As per the LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) V4 resources, the Materials and Resources Prerequisite for Construction and Demolition Waste Management Planning requires the project team to develop and implement a construction and demolition waste management plan that identifies at least five materials targeted for diversion from disposal in landfills and incinerators. The project team must also estimate a diversion rate for each material and describe how they will achieve it. The project team must submit this plan as part of the preliminary design review, along with a letter from the owner or project manager confirming that they will implement it during construction. If the reviewer finds any issues with the plan or the letter, they will provide a review comment and technical advice on how to improve it. The project team must then revise the documentation and resubmit it as part of the final design review, along with a narrative describing how they addressed the reviewer’s feedback. For more detailed information, you can refer to the web-based reference guide in the credit library at USGBC’s official website.
A
Explanation:
Revise the documentation and resubmit the form If a project receives a review comment and technical advice on a prerequisite, it means that the documentation submitted was incomplete, inaccurate, or unclear, and that the project team needs to address the issues raised by the reviewer and provide additional information or clarification. The project team should revise the documentation and resubmit the form as part of the final review to demonstrate compliance with the prerequisite requirements. Abandoning meeting this prerequisite is not an option, as prerequisites are mandatory for LEED certification. Submitting an appeal to Green Business Certification Inc. is only applicable if the project team disagrees with the reviewer’s decision or interpretation, and has additional evidence or arguments to support their claim. Asking the General Contractor to be more aggressive with recycling goals is not relevant to this prerequisite, as it does not address the documentation issue.
Reference: As per the LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) V4 resources, the Materials and Resources Prerequisite for Construction and Demolition Waste Management Planning requires the project team to develop and implement a construction and demolition waste management plan that identifies at least five materials targeted for diversion from disposal in landfills and incinerators. The project team must also estimate a diversion rate for each material and describe how they will achieve it. The project team must submit this plan as part of the preliminary design review, along with a letter from the owner or project manager confirming that they will implement it during construction. If the reviewer finds any issues with the plan or the letter, they will provide a review comment and technical advice on how to improve it. The project team must then revise the documentation and resubmit it as part of the final design review, along with a narrative describing how they addressed the reviewer’s feedback. For more detailed information, you can refer to the web-based reference guide in the credit library at USGBC’s official website.
Question #61
Which of the following is required for a cooling tower or evaporative condenser in Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Indoor Water Use Reduction?
- A . Alkalinity testing and ENERGY STAR® rating
- B . Non potable water sources and bacteria testing
- C . Water treatment calculations and system performance narrative
- D . Makeup water meters, conductivity controllers and overflow alarms
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
Makeup water meters, conductivity controllers and overflow alarms
According to the Water Efficiency Prerequisite for Indoor Water Use Reduction, cooling towers and evaporative condensers must be equipped with makeup water meters, conductivity controllers and overflow alarms to reduce water consumption and prevent water waste. These devices help monitor and control the water quality, flow rate and level of the cooling system, and alert the operators of any malfunctions or leaks.
Reference: As per the LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) V4 resources, the installation of makeup water meters, conductivity controllers and overflow alarms is a requirement for cooling towers and evaporative condensers under the Water Efficiency Prerequisite for Indoor Water Use Reduction. This prerequisite aims to reduce indoor water consumption by setting baseline and efficiency standards for fixtures, fittings, appliances, equipment and processes. For cooling towers and evaporative condensers, the prerequisite also requires efficient drift eliminators that reduce drift to a maximum of 0.002% of recirculated water volume for counterflow towers and 0.005% of recirculated water flow for cross-flow towers. For more detailed information, you can refer to the web-based reference guide in the credit library at USGBC’s official website.
D
Explanation:
Makeup water meters, conductivity controllers and overflow alarms
According to the Water Efficiency Prerequisite for Indoor Water Use Reduction, cooling towers and evaporative condensers must be equipped with makeup water meters, conductivity controllers and overflow alarms to reduce water consumption and prevent water waste. These devices help monitor and control the water quality, flow rate and level of the cooling system, and alert the operators of any malfunctions or leaks.
Reference: As per the LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) V4 resources, the installation of makeup water meters, conductivity controllers and overflow alarms is a requirement for cooling towers and evaporative condensers under the Water Efficiency Prerequisite for Indoor Water Use Reduction. This prerequisite aims to reduce indoor water consumption by setting baseline and efficiency standards for fixtures, fittings, appliances, equipment and processes. For cooling towers and evaporative condensers, the prerequisite also requires efficient drift eliminators that reduce drift to a maximum of 0.002% of recirculated water volume for counterflow towers and 0.005% of recirculated water flow for cross-flow towers. For more detailed information, you can refer to the web-based reference guide in the credit library at USGBC’s official website.
Question #62
A design team pursuing LEED for a new office building project calculated that with the water fixtures specified for the project, a 24% water reduction can be achieved compared to the LEED baseline.
What does this mean to the team in terms of pursuing LEED?
- A . The project cannot pursue LEED
- B . The project may pursue Water Efficiency Credit, Indoor Water Use Reduction
- C . The project does not meet Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Indoor Water Use Reduction, but can make up the points elsewhere in the rating system
- D . The project can meet the Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Indoor Water Use Reduction, but cannot earn any points under Water Efficiency Credit, Indoor Water Use Reduction
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
According to the LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) V4 resources, the Water Efficiency Prerequisite for Indoor Water Use Reduction requires the project to reduce aggregate water consumption by 20% from the baseline. Therefore, the project can meet this prerequisite with a 24% water reduction. However, to earn points under the Water Efficiency Credit for Indoor Water Use Reduction, the project needs to achieve a higher level of water reduction, ranging from 25% to 50%. The credit awards points based on the percentage of water reduction achieved, as shown in Table 1. Thus, the project may pursue this credit if it can further reduce its water consumption by installing more efficient fixtures and fittings, appliances, equipment and processes.
Reference: As per the LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) V4 resources, the Water Efficiency Prerequisite and Credit for Indoor Water Use Reduction are based on an “efficiency first” approach to water conservation. The prerequisite sets a minimum standard of 20% water reduction from the baseline, while the credit rewards higher levels of performance up to 50% water reduction. The baseline water consumption of fixtures and fittings is based on the volumes and flow rates shown in Table 2. The credit also requires that all newly installed toilets, urinals, private lavatory faucets and showerheads that are eligible for labeling must be WaterSense labeled (or a local equivalent for projects outside the U.S.). For more detailed information, you can refer to the web-based reference guide in the credit library at USGBC’s official website.
B
Explanation:
According to the LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) V4 resources, the Water Efficiency Prerequisite for Indoor Water Use Reduction requires the project to reduce aggregate water consumption by 20% from the baseline. Therefore, the project can meet this prerequisite with a 24% water reduction. However, to earn points under the Water Efficiency Credit for Indoor Water Use Reduction, the project needs to achieve a higher level of water reduction, ranging from 25% to 50%. The credit awards points based on the percentage of water reduction achieved, as shown in Table 1. Thus, the project may pursue this credit if it can further reduce its water consumption by installing more efficient fixtures and fittings, appliances, equipment and processes.
Reference: As per the LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) V4 resources, the Water Efficiency Prerequisite and Credit for Indoor Water Use Reduction are based on an “efficiency first” approach to water conservation. The prerequisite sets a minimum standard of 20% water reduction from the baseline, while the credit rewards higher levels of performance up to 50% water reduction. The baseline water consumption of fixtures and fittings is based on the volumes and flow rates shown in Table 2. The credit also requires that all newly installed toilets, urinals, private lavatory faucets and showerheads that are eligible for labeling must be WaterSense labeled (or a local equivalent for projects outside the U.S.). For more detailed information, you can refer to the web-based reference guide in the credit library at USGBC’s official website.
Question #63
Sustainable Sites Credit, Site Assessment requires evaluation of
- A . soils, archeology, hydrology
- B . topography, hydrology, human use
- C . vegetation, topography, archaeology
- D . human health effects, climate, land value
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The Sustainable Sites Credit, Site Assessment requires the project to conduct and document a site inventory and analysis that evaluates the existing conditions and features of the site, such as topography, hydrology, human use, climate, vegetation, soils, and human health effects1. The purpose of the site assessment is to inform the design and development of the site in a way that protects, restores, and enhances the environmental quality and performance of the site1. The site assessment should include the following elements:
Topography: The shape and elevation of the land surface, including slopes, drainage patterns, and erosion potential.
Hydrology: The movement, distribution, and quality of water on the site, including surface water, groundwater, precipitation, and runoff.
Human use: The current and planned use of the site and its surroundings, including zoning, land use, transportation, utilities, and cultural resources.
Climate: The long-term weather patterns and conditions of the site, including temperature, humidity, wind, solar radiation, and precipitation.
Vegetation: The types, distribution, and condition of plants on the site, including native, invasive, and endangered species, and their ecological functions and values.
Soils: The physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil on the site, including texture, structure, organic matter, pH, fertility, and contamination.
Human health effects: The potential impacts of the site conditions and features on the health and
well-being of the occupants and the surrounding community, such as noise, air quality, water quality,
and exposure to hazardous substances.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 Sustainable Sites Credit, Site Assessment Site Assessment – SITES
Site Assessment and Analysis – Whole Building Design Guide
B
Explanation:
The Sustainable Sites Credit, Site Assessment requires the project to conduct and document a site inventory and analysis that evaluates the existing conditions and features of the site, such as topography, hydrology, human use, climate, vegetation, soils, and human health effects1. The purpose of the site assessment is to inform the design and development of the site in a way that protects, restores, and enhances the environmental quality and performance of the site1. The site assessment should include the following elements:
Topography: The shape and elevation of the land surface, including slopes, drainage patterns, and erosion potential.
Hydrology: The movement, distribution, and quality of water on the site, including surface water, groundwater, precipitation, and runoff.
Human use: The current and planned use of the site and its surroundings, including zoning, land use, transportation, utilities, and cultural resources.
Climate: The long-term weather patterns and conditions of the site, including temperature, humidity, wind, solar radiation, and precipitation.
Vegetation: The types, distribution, and condition of plants on the site, including native, invasive, and endangered species, and their ecological functions and values.
Soils: The physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil on the site, including texture, structure, organic matter, pH, fertility, and contamination.
Human health effects: The potential impacts of the site conditions and features on the health and
well-being of the occupants and the surrounding community, such as noise, air quality, water quality,
and exposure to hazardous substances.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 Sustainable Sites Credit, Site Assessment Site Assessment – SITES
Site Assessment and Analysis – Whole Building Design Guide
Question #64
What is the average flush rate for a dual flush toilet with a high flush rate of 1.6 gpf (6 lpf) and a low flush rate of 1.05 gpf (4 lpf)?
- A . 1.05 gpf (4 lpf)
- B . 1.19 gpf (4.5 lpf)
- C . 1.23 gpf (4.66 lpf)
- D . 1.32 gpf (5 lpf)
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The average flush rate for a dual flush toilet is calculated by weighting the high and low flush rates according to the frequency of use. According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction1, the frequency of use for male and female occupants is assumed to be as follows: Male full flush: 1 time per day
Female full flush: 1 time per day
Male low flush: 2 times per day
Female low flush: 2 times per day
Therefore, the average flush rate for a dual flush toilet with a high flush rate of 1.6 gpf (6 lpf) and a low flush rate of 1.05 gpf (4 lpf) is:
6(1×1.6)+(1×1.6)+(2×1.05)+(2×1.05)=1.19 gpf(4.5 lpf)
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 Dual toilet flush rate average | LEEDuser
Dual Flush vs Single Flush Toilet: The Complete Comparison Guide What Is a Dual Flush Toilet? – The Spruce
B
Explanation:
The average flush rate for a dual flush toilet is calculated by weighting the high and low flush rates according to the frequency of use. According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction1, the frequency of use for male and female occupants is assumed to be as follows: Male full flush: 1 time per day
Female full flush: 1 time per day
Male low flush: 2 times per day
Female low flush: 2 times per day
Therefore, the average flush rate for a dual flush toilet with a high flush rate of 1.6 gpf (6 lpf) and a low flush rate of 1.05 gpf (4 lpf) is:
6(1×1.6)+(1×1.6)+(2×1.05)+(2×1.05)=1.19 gpf(4.5 lpf)
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 Dual toilet flush rate average | LEEDuser
Dual Flush vs Single Flush Toilet: The Complete Comparison Guide What Is a Dual Flush Toilet? – The Spruce
Question #65
A new commercial building is being designed to use small capacity air handling units.
To meet the requirements of the Carbon Dioxide Monitoring strategy in the Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Enhanced Indoor Environmental Quality Strategies, where would CO2 monitors need to be located?
- A . In each occupied space
- B . In each densely occupied space
- C . In each occupied space and outdoors
- D . In each occupied space over 500 ft2 (46 m2)
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the Carbon Dioxide Monitoring strategy requires CO2 monitors to be located in each densely occupied space, which is defined as a space with a design occupant density of 25 people or more per 1,000 square feet (93 square meters). This strategy is intended to provide feedback on ventilation system performance and indoor air quality12
Reference: 1: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Indoor Environmental Quality Credit: Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Strategies, Option 2: Additional Enhanced IAQ Strategies, Strategy 3: Carbon Dioxide Monitoring, page 704. 2: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Glossary, page 1019.
B
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the Carbon Dioxide Monitoring strategy requires CO2 monitors to be located in each densely occupied space, which is defined as a space with a design occupant density of 25 people or more per 1,000 square feet (93 square meters). This strategy is intended to provide feedback on ventilation system performance and indoor air quality12
Reference: 1: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Indoor Environmental Quality Credit: Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Strategies, Option 2: Additional Enhanced IAQ Strategies, Strategy 3: Carbon Dioxide Monitoring, page 704. 2: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Glossary, page 1019.
Question #66
A luxury hotel project is in the design phase and is located on a scenic waterfront. It is one point away from attaining LEED Platinum certification. The LEED AP is recommending that the team pursue Innovation Credit, Innovation, Option 3. Additional Strategies.
Which of the following credits would be desirable considering the location of the project?
- A . Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Optimize Energy Performance, Exemplary Performance
- B . Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Quality Views, Exemplary Performance
- C . Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Acoustic Performance, Exemplary Performance
- D . Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Enhanced Commissioning, Exemplary Performance
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The LEED Platinum certification requires the project to achieve exemplary performance in at least one credit that allows it, as specified in the LEED Reference Guide1. One of the credits that meets this criterion is the Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, which focuses on providing healthy and comfortable indoor environments for occupants. The credit has two options: Quality Views and Enhanced Commissioning. Quality Views requires the project to have windows that provide views of natural scenery or water bodies, which can enhance the well-being and satisfaction of occupants.
Enhanced Commissioning requires the project to have a comprehensive commissioning plan that ensures all systems are properly installed, tested, and operated before occupancy. Both options can help reduce energy consumption, improve indoor air quality, and create a positive sensory experience for occupants.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide v4
LEED Platinum Certification – LD Products
LEED Accreditation | LEED Certification & Credentials Overview – GBES
B
Explanation:
The LEED Platinum certification requires the project to achieve exemplary performance in at least one credit that allows it, as specified in the LEED Reference Guide1. One of the credits that meets this criterion is the Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, which focuses on providing healthy and comfortable indoor environments for occupants. The credit has two options: Quality Views and Enhanced Commissioning. Quality Views requires the project to have windows that provide views of natural scenery or water bodies, which can enhance the well-being and satisfaction of occupants.
Enhanced Commissioning requires the project to have a comprehensive commissioning plan that ensures all systems are properly installed, tested, and operated before occupancy. Both options can help reduce energy consumption, improve indoor air quality, and create a positive sensory experience for occupants.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide v4
LEED Platinum Certification – LD Products
LEED Accreditation | LEED Certification & Credentials Overview – GBES
Question #67
Selecting a high-reflectance interior paint which is compliant with South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1113 can help contribute towards which two credits?
- A . Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Low-Emitting Materials and Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Interior Lighting
- B . Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Low-Emitting Materials and Sustainable Sites Credit, Site Assessment
- C . Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Low-Emitting Materials and Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Minimum Indoor Environmental Quality Performance
- D . Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Enhanced Indoor Environmental Quality Strategies and Indoor Environmental Quality Prerequisite, Minimum Indoor Environmental Quality Performance
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Selecting a high-reflectance interior paint that meets the SCAQMD Rule 1113 can help contribute towards two credits: Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Low-Emitting Materials and Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Interior Lighting. The first credit requires that interior paints and coatings comply with the VOC content limits specified by the SCAQMD Rule 1113 or equivalent standards to reduce indoor air contaminants that are odorous, irritating, and/or harmful to the comfort and well-being of installers and occupants1 The second credit aims to provide high-quality lighting that supports visual acuity and occupant comfort, and that responds to the needs of the space and its users. One of the strategies to achieve this credit is to use light-colored finishes with a minimum reflectance of 0.7 for ceilings, 0.5 for walls, and 0.2 for floors to increase the effectiveness of daylighting and electric lighting systems2
Reference: 1: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Indoor Environmental Quality Credit: Low-Emitting Materials, page 692. 2: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Indoor Environmental Quality Credit: Interior Lighting, page 715.
A
Explanation:
Selecting a high-reflectance interior paint that meets the SCAQMD Rule 1113 can help contribute towards two credits: Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Low-Emitting Materials and Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Interior Lighting. The first credit requires that interior paints and coatings comply with the VOC content limits specified by the SCAQMD Rule 1113 or equivalent standards to reduce indoor air contaminants that are odorous, irritating, and/or harmful to the comfort and well-being of installers and occupants1 The second credit aims to provide high-quality lighting that supports visual acuity and occupant comfort, and that responds to the needs of the space and its users. One of the strategies to achieve this credit is to use light-colored finishes with a minimum reflectance of 0.7 for ceilings, 0.5 for walls, and 0.2 for floors to increase the effectiveness of daylighting and electric lighting systems2
Reference: 1: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Indoor Environmental Quality Credit: Low-Emitting Materials, page 692. 2: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Indoor Environmental Quality Credit: Interior Lighting, page 715.
Question #68
A Photovoltaic (PV) system was installed on a 35,000 ft2 (3 252 m2) project.
What actions need to take place in order to meet compliance for Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Fundamental Commissioning (Cx) and Verification?
- A . No action is necessary as the PV system is not required to be commissioned
- B . The PV system installer should commission his own installations and share the results with the project owner
- C . The Cx agent for the project must conduct or oversee the Cx of the PV system
- D . The building’s mechanical engineer should commission his own installations and share the results with the project owner
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
The correct answer is C, the Cx agent for the project must conduct or oversee the Cx of the PV system. According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Fundamental Commissioning and Verification, requires that all energy-related systems, including renewable energy systems such as PV, be commissioned by an independent commissioning agent (CxA) or a qualified member of the project team who reports to the owner. The CxA or the qualified team member must perform or oversee all commissioning activities, including developing a commissioning plan, reviewing design documents and submittals, verifying installation and performance, and preparing a commissioning report12
Reference: 1: LEED
v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite: Fundamental Commissioning and Verification, page 562. 2: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Glossary, page 1020.
C
Explanation:
The correct answer is C, the Cx agent for the project must conduct or oversee the Cx of the PV system. According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Fundamental Commissioning and Verification, requires that all energy-related systems, including renewable energy systems such as PV, be commissioned by an independent commissioning agent (CxA) or a qualified member of the project team who reports to the owner. The CxA or the qualified team member must perform or oversee all commissioning activities, including developing a commissioning plan, reviewing design documents and submittals, verifying installation and performance, and preparing a commissioning report12
Reference: 1: LEED
v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite: Fundamental Commissioning and Verification, page 562. 2: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Glossary, page 1020.
Question #69
What stage of LEED for Neighborhood Development certification listed below is eligible for points under Building Design and Construction: New Construction, Location and Transportation Credit, LEED for Neighborhood Development Location?
- A . LEED v4, LEED for Neighborhood Development Conditional Approval
- B . LEED for Neighborhood Development Pilot, Stage 3 LEED for Neighborhood Development Certified Project
- C . LEED for Neighborhood Development Pilot, Stage 1 LEED for Neighborhood Development Pre-reviewed Plan
- D . LEED 2009, Stage 1 Conditional Approval of LEED for Neighborhood Development Plan
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The only stage of LEED for Neighborhood Development certification that is eligible for points under Building Design and Construction: New Construction, Location and Transportation Credit, LEED for Neighborhood Development Location, is LEED for Neighborhood Development Pilot, Stage 3 LEED for Neighborhood Development Certified Project. This is because the credit requires that the project be located within the boundary of a development that has achieved certification under LEED for Neighborhood Development (either Stage 2 or Stage 3 under the Pilot or 2009 rating systems, or Certified Plan or Certified Project under the LEED v4 rating system)1 The other stages listed in the question are either conditional approvals or pre-reviews that do not guarantee certification23
Reference: 1: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Location and Transportation Credit: LEED for Neighborhood Development Location, page 460. 2: LEED for Neighborhood Development Location C Above Green 3 3: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide – U.S. Green Building Council 1
B
Explanation:
The only stage of LEED for Neighborhood Development certification that is eligible for points under Building Design and Construction: New Construction, Location and Transportation Credit, LEED for Neighborhood Development Location, is LEED for Neighborhood Development Pilot, Stage 3 LEED for Neighborhood Development Certified Project. This is because the credit requires that the project be located within the boundary of a development that has achieved certification under LEED for Neighborhood Development (either Stage 2 or Stage 3 under the Pilot or 2009 rating systems, or Certified Plan or Certified Project under the LEED v4 rating system)1 The other stages listed in the question are either conditional approvals or pre-reviews that do not guarantee certification23
Reference: 1: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Location and Transportation Credit: LEED for Neighborhood Development Location, page 460. 2: LEED for Neighborhood Development Location C Above Green 3 3: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide – U.S. Green Building Council 1
Question #70
A new school with a 20 car parking lot has set aside four preferred parking spaces for green vehicles.
What else must the project team provide to achieve Location and Transportation Credit, Green Vehicles?
- A . Nothing; the project team has met the credit requirements
- B . Provide secure bike racks for 5% of the building occupants
- C . Provide an additional parking space for a low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicle
- D . Provide qualifying electrical vehicle supply equipment in 2% of all parking spaces
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
The correct answer is D, provide qualifying electrical vehicle supply equipment in 2% of all parking spaces. According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the Location and Transportation Credit, Green Vehicles, requires that projects provide preferred parking for green vehicles for 5% of the total vehicle parking capacity of the site. Green vehicles are defined as vehicles that achieve a minimum green score of 40 on the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) annual vehicle rating guide1.
In addition, projects must provide one of the following:
Install alternative-fuel fueling stations for 3% of the total vehicle parking capacity of the site. Alternative fuels are defined by the U.S. Energy Policy Act of 1992 and include biodiesel, electricity,
ethanol, hydrogen, natural gas, and propane.
Install electrical vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) for 2% of the total vehicle parking capacity of the site. EVSE must be Level 2 or higher as defined by SAE International’s J1772 standard.
Provide a discounted parking rate of at least 20% for green vehicles. The discounted rate must be available to all customers (not limited by time of day or user groups), publicly posted at the entrance of the parking area, and included in all marketing materials for the parking facility1
In this case, the project team has provided preferred parking for green vehicles for 20% of the total vehicle parking capacity of the site (4 out of 20 spaces), which exceeds the minimum requirement of 5%. However, they still need to provide one of the additional options listed above to achieve the credit. The most feasible option for a school project with a small parking lot would be to install EVSE for 2% of all parking spaces, which would be equivalent to one space. Therefore, answer D is correct. The other answers are incorrect because they do not meet the credit requirements. Answer A is incorrect because providing preferred parking alone is not sufficient to achieve the credit; one of the additional options must also be provided. Answer B is incorrect because providing bike racks is not relevant to this credit, which focuses on green vehicles; bike racks are part of another credit, Location and Transportation Credit, Bicycle Facilities. Answer C is incorrect because providing an additional parking space for a low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicle would not increase the percentage of preferred parking above 20%, which is already more than enough; moreover, low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles are defined differently from green vehicles in LEED v4 and have their own credit, Location and Transportation Credit, Reduced Parking Footprint1
Reference: 1: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Location and Transportation Credit: Green Vehicles, page 467.
D
Explanation:
The correct answer is D, provide qualifying electrical vehicle supply equipment in 2% of all parking spaces. According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the Location and Transportation Credit, Green Vehicles, requires that projects provide preferred parking for green vehicles for 5% of the total vehicle parking capacity of the site. Green vehicles are defined as vehicles that achieve a minimum green score of 40 on the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) annual vehicle rating guide1.
In addition, projects must provide one of the following:
Install alternative-fuel fueling stations for 3% of the total vehicle parking capacity of the site. Alternative fuels are defined by the U.S. Energy Policy Act of 1992 and include biodiesel, electricity,
ethanol, hydrogen, natural gas, and propane.
Install electrical vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) for 2% of the total vehicle parking capacity of the site. EVSE must be Level 2 or higher as defined by SAE International’s J1772 standard.
Provide a discounted parking rate of at least 20% for green vehicles. The discounted rate must be available to all customers (not limited by time of day or user groups), publicly posted at the entrance of the parking area, and included in all marketing materials for the parking facility1
In this case, the project team has provided preferred parking for green vehicles for 20% of the total vehicle parking capacity of the site (4 out of 20 spaces), which exceeds the minimum requirement of 5%. However, they still need to provide one of the additional options listed above to achieve the credit. The most feasible option for a school project with a small parking lot would be to install EVSE for 2% of all parking spaces, which would be equivalent to one space. Therefore, answer D is correct. The other answers are incorrect because they do not meet the credit requirements. Answer A is incorrect because providing preferred parking alone is not sufficient to achieve the credit; one of the additional options must also be provided. Answer B is incorrect because providing bike racks is not relevant to this credit, which focuses on green vehicles; bike racks are part of another credit, Location and Transportation Credit, Bicycle Facilities. Answer C is incorrect because providing an additional parking space for a low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicle would not increase the percentage of preferred parking above 20%, which is already more than enough; moreover, low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles are defined differently from green vehicles in LEED v4 and have their own credit, Location and Transportation Credit, Reduced Parking Footprint1
Reference: 1: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Location and Transportation Credit: Green Vehicles, page 467.
Question #71
A design team is pursuing Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Indoor Air Quality Assessment. The building is 1,000 ft2 (93 m2) and has a 10 ft. (3 m) ceiling height.
In order to earn the credit, what is the required volume of supply air for the entire building flush-out?
- A . 3,500,000 ft3 (99 108 m3)
- B . 10,000,000 ft3 (283 168 m3)
- C . 14,000,000 ft3 (396 435 m3)
- D . 35,000,000 ft3 (991 089 m3)
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction1, the Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Indoor Air Quality Assessment, Option 1. Flush-Out requires the project to perform a building flush-out by supplying a total air volume of 14,000 cubic feet of outdoor air per square foot of gross floor area while maintaining an internal temperature of at least 60°F and no higher than 80°F and relative humidity no higher than 60%. The gross floor area of the building is 1,000 ft2 and the ceiling height is 10 ft, so the required volume of supply air for the entire building flush-out is:
14,000 ft3/sf x 1,000 sf = 14,000,000 ft3
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4
C
Explanation:
According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction1, the Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Indoor Air Quality Assessment, Option 1. Flush-Out requires the project to perform a building flush-out by supplying a total air volume of 14,000 cubic feet of outdoor air per square foot of gross floor area while maintaining an internal temperature of at least 60°F and no higher than 80°F and relative humidity no higher than 60%. The gross floor area of the building is 1,000 ft2 and the ceiling height is 10 ft, so the required volume of supply air for the entire building flush-out is:
14,000 ft3/sf x 1,000 sf = 14,000,000 ft3
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4
Question #72
Which of the following Water Efficiency credits differ between LEED Building Design and Construction: New Construction and LEED Building Design and Construction: Healthcare?
- A . LEED Building Design and Construction: Healthcare has no Water Efficiency Credit, Cooling Tower Water Use
- B . LEED Building Design and Construction: New Construction has no Water Efficiency Credit, Cooling Tower Water Use
- C . LEED Building Design and Construction: Healthcare has additional appliance and process water requirements in Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Indoor Water Use Reduction
- D . LEED Building Design and Construction: New Construction has additional appliance and process water requirements in Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Indoor Water Use Reduction
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
. LEED Building Design and Construction: Healthcare has additional appliance and process water requirements in Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Indoor Water Use Reduction LEED Building Design and Construction: New Construction and LEED Building Design and Construction: Healthcare have the same Water Efficiency credits, except for the Cooling Tower Water Use credit, which is only applicable to the former. However, the Indoor Water Use Reduction prerequisite differs between the two rating systems, as the Healthcare version requires additional calculations for appliance and process water use, such as medical equipment, laundry, and kitchen equipment.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 256-3171 LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide – U.S. Green Building Council2
C
Explanation:
. LEED Building Design and Construction: Healthcare has additional appliance and process water requirements in Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Indoor Water Use Reduction LEED Building Design and Construction: New Construction and LEED Building Design and Construction: Healthcare have the same Water Efficiency credits, except for the Cooling Tower Water Use credit, which is only applicable to the former. However, the Indoor Water Use Reduction prerequisite differs between the two rating systems, as the Healthcare version requires additional calculations for appliance and process water use, such as medical equipment, laundry, and kitchen equipment.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 256-3171 LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide – U.S. Green Building Council2
Question #73
Which of the following is a leadership extraction practice that rewards projects for choosing materials with closed-loop recycling and take-back programs in LEED?
- A . Material reuse
- B . Bio-based elements
- C . Extended producer responsibility
- D . Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) wood products
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
. Extended producer responsibility
Extended producer responsibility is a leadership extraction practice that encourages manufacturers to take back their products or packaging at the end of their useful life and recycle them in a closed-loop system. This reduces the environmental impacts of extraction, transportation, and disposal of raw materials. LEED rewards projects for choosing materials that have extended producer responsibility programs or policies in place.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 263-2641 LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide – U.S. Green Building Council2
C
Explanation:
. Extended producer responsibility
Extended producer responsibility is a leadership extraction practice that encourages manufacturers to take back their products or packaging at the end of their useful life and recycle them in a closed-loop system. This reduces the environmental impacts of extraction, transportation, and disposal of raw materials. LEED rewards projects for choosing materials that have extended producer responsibility programs or policies in place.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 263-2641 LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide – U.S. Green Building Council2
Question #74
Which strategy should be employed to improve daylighting when designing a new building?
- A . Increase the building depth
- B . Increase the number of skylights
- C . Increase the height of interior partitions
- D . Decrease the number of exterior light shelves
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
. Increase the number of skylights
Skylights are openings in the roof or ceiling that allow natural light to enter the building. They can improve daylighting by providing more uniform and diffuse illumination, reducing the need for artificial lighting, and enhancing the visual comfort and well-being of occupants. Skylights can also reduce cooling loads by minimizing solar heat gain through the roof. However, skylights must be designed carefully to avoid glare, overheating, and heat loss issues.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 279-2801 Daylighting | WBDG – Whole Building Design Guide1
B
Explanation:
. Increase the number of skylights
Skylights are openings in the roof or ceiling that allow natural light to enter the building. They can improve daylighting by providing more uniform and diffuse illumination, reducing the need for artificial lighting, and enhancing the visual comfort and well-being of occupants. Skylights can also reduce cooling loads by minimizing solar heat gain through the roof. However, skylights must be designed carefully to avoid glare, overheating, and heat loss issues.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 279-2801 Daylighting | WBDG – Whole Building Design Guide1
Question #75
What are the requirements of commercial projects for long-term bicycle storage under Location and Transportation, Bicycle Facilities – Bicycle Storage and Shower Rooms?
- A . Provide for at least 5% of all regular building occupants, with no less than four storage spaces per building
- B . Provide for at least 10% of all regular building occupants, with no less than five storage spaces per building
- C . Provide for at least 15% of all regular building occupants, with no less than 10 storage spaces per building
- D . Provide for at least 25% of all regular building occupants, with no less than 10 storage spaces per building
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The correct answer is B. Provide for at least 10% of all regular building occupants, with no less than five storage spaces per building.
According to the LEED v4.1 Bicycle Storage Requirements1, commercial projects must provide long-term bicycle storage for at least 10% of all regular building occupants, with no less than five storage spaces per building. Long-term bicycle storage is defined as secure, enclosed, and weather-protected spaces that are intended for use by occupants who make regular trips to the project building. Examples of long-term bicycle storage include lockers, cages, rooms, or dedicated areas within buildings1. The purpose of this requirement is to encourage the use of bicycles as a sustainable mode of transportation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel consumption.
B
Explanation:
The correct answer is B. Provide for at least 10% of all regular building occupants, with no less than five storage spaces per building.
According to the LEED v4.1 Bicycle Storage Requirements1, commercial projects must provide long-term bicycle storage for at least 10% of all regular building occupants, with no less than five storage spaces per building. Long-term bicycle storage is defined as secure, enclosed, and weather-protected spaces that are intended for use by occupants who make regular trips to the project building. Examples of long-term bicycle storage include lockers, cages, rooms, or dedicated areas within buildings1. The purpose of this requirement is to encourage the use of bicycles as a sustainable mode of transportation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel consumption.
Question #76
A Healthcare Project is constructing a new building adjacent to an existing LEED Certified hospital facility. The new building’s location is on the same hospital campus as the certified facility. The entire hospital campus was analyzed with an Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) as part of the certified facility’s project scope. The new building project needs to complete a new Phase I ESA if
- A . the Phase II ESA uncovers suspected contamination
- B . contamination was identified by the certified facility
- C . the certified facility’s Phase I ESA is older than 180 days
- D . the local equivalent standard is more stringent than ASTM E1527-05
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
. the local equivalent standard is more stringent than ASTM E1527-05
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, a Phase I ESA is required for all projects, except for those located on previously developed land that has not been used for industrial, commercial, or agricultural purposes. The Phase I ESA must follow the ASTM E1527-05 standard or a local equivalent. However, if the local equivalent is more stringent than the ASTM standard, then the project must comply with the local equivalent. Therefore, if the new building project is located in a jurisdiction that has a more rigorous standard for Phase I ESA than ASTM E1527-05, then it must complete a new Phase I ESA, regardless of the previous ESA done for the certified facility.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 81-821 LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide – U.S. Green Building Council2
D
Explanation:
. the local equivalent standard is more stringent than ASTM E1527-05
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, a Phase I ESA is required for all projects, except for those located on previously developed land that has not been used for industrial, commercial, or agricultural purposes. The Phase I ESA must follow the ASTM E1527-05 standard or a local equivalent. However, if the local equivalent is more stringent than the ASTM standard, then the project must comply with the local equivalent. Therefore, if the new building project is located in a jurisdiction that has a more rigorous standard for Phase I ESA than ASTM E1527-05, then it must complete a new Phase I ESA, regardless of the previous ESA done for the certified facility.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 81-821 LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide – U.S. Green Building Council2
Question #77
Which of the following project team members should be integrated early into the design phase to assist with earning the Materials and Resources Prerequisite, Construction and Demolition Waste Management Planning?
- A . Owner
- B . Contractor
- C . Occupants
- D . Facility manager
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
. Contractor
The contractor is the project team member who should be integrated early into the design phase to assist with earning the Materials and Resources Prerequisite, Construction and Demolition Waste Management Planning. The contractor is responsible for implementing the waste management plan, which includes estimating the types and quantities of waste materials, identifying the diversion strategies, selecting the waste haulers and recyclers, tracking and documenting the waste diversion performance, and training the subcontractors and workers. The contractor can provide valuable input on how to reduce, reuse, and recycle the construction and demolition waste, as well as identify potential challenges and opportunities for achieving the prerequisite requirements.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 263-2641 LEED Certification and Sustainable Construction Waste Management1
B
Explanation:
. Contractor
The contractor is the project team member who should be integrated early into the design phase to assist with earning the Materials and Resources Prerequisite, Construction and Demolition Waste Management Planning. The contractor is responsible for implementing the waste management plan, which includes estimating the types and quantities of waste materials, identifying the diversion strategies, selecting the waste haulers and recyclers, tracking and documenting the waste diversion performance, and training the subcontractors and workers. The contractor can provide valuable input on how to reduce, reuse, and recycle the construction and demolition waste, as well as identify potential challenges and opportunities for achieving the prerequisite requirements.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 263-2641 LEED Certification and Sustainable Construction Waste Management1
Question #78
The Sustainable Sites Credit, Heat Island Reduction takes into account both new and three-year aged Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) values for roofing material because
- A . SRI generally increases with age
- B . SRI generally decreases with age
- C . SRI generally remains the same with age
- D . SRI generally does not impact the Heat Island Effect
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
. SRI generally decreases with age
The Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) is a measure of the ability of a surface to reflect solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. It is calculated using the values of solar reflectance and thermal emittance of the surface. The higher the SRI, the lower the heat island effect. However, SRI generally decreases with age due to factors such as weathering, dirt accumulation, and biological growth.
Therefore, the Sustainable Sites Credit, Heat Island Reduction takes into account both new and three-year aged SRI values for roofing material to ensure that the material maintains a high level of reflectance over time.
Reference: SpecTopics: Heat Island Reduction Credit and LEED V4/V4.1 – Carlisle SynTec1
Solar Reflectance Index Measurements – Surface Optics Corp.2
B
Explanation:
. SRI generally decreases with age
The Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) is a measure of the ability of a surface to reflect solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. It is calculated using the values of solar reflectance and thermal emittance of the surface. The higher the SRI, the lower the heat island effect. However, SRI generally decreases with age due to factors such as weathering, dirt accumulation, and biological growth.
Therefore, the Sustainable Sites Credit, Heat Island Reduction takes into account both new and three-year aged SRI values for roofing material to ensure that the material maintains a high level of reflectance over time.
Reference: SpecTopics: Heat Island Reduction Credit and LEED V4/V4.1 – Carlisle SynTec1
Solar Reflectance Index Measurements – Surface Optics Corp.2
Question #79
Which of the following statements is correct when defining the project boundary?
- A . The LEED project boundary cannot include non-contiguous land
- B . The LEED project boundary cannot include more than one building
- C . The land associated with the project supports typical operation
- D . The gross floor area of the LEED project should be no less than 1% of the gross land area within the LEED project boundary
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
. The land associated with the project supports typical operations
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the LEED project boundary must include all contiguous land that is associated with the project and supports its typical operations. This includes land altered as a result of construction and features used primarily by the project’s occupants, such as hardscape (parking and sidewalks), septic or stormwater treatment equipment, and landscaping1. Therefore, statement C is correct when defining the project boundary.
Statement A is incorrect because the LEED project boundary must be contiguous. Statement B is incorrect because the LEED project boundary can include more than one building, as long as they are on the same site and share a common scope of work. Statement D is incorrect because there is no such requirement for the gross floor area of the LEED project to be a certain percentage of the gross land area within the LEED project boundary.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Page 282 NC-v4.1 MPR2: Must use reasonable LEED boundaries | LEEDuser1
C
Explanation:
. The land associated with the project supports typical operations
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the LEED project boundary must include all contiguous land that is associated with the project and supports its typical operations. This includes land altered as a result of construction and features used primarily by the project’s occupants, such as hardscape (parking and sidewalks), septic or stormwater treatment equipment, and landscaping1. Therefore, statement C is correct when defining the project boundary.
Statement A is incorrect because the LEED project boundary must be contiguous. Statement B is incorrect because the LEED project boundary can include more than one building, as long as they are on the same site and share a common scope of work. Statement D is incorrect because there is no such requirement for the gross floor area of the LEED project to be a certain percentage of the gross land area within the LEED project boundary.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Page 282 NC-v4.1 MPR2: Must use reasonable LEED boundaries | LEEDuser1
Question #80
A project’s massing and site orientation can have a direct impact on which of the following prerequisites?
- A . Minimum Energy Performance
- B . Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance
- C . Construction Activity Pollution Prevention
- D . Fundamental Commissioning and Verification
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
. Minimum Energy Performance
A project’s massing and site orientation can have a direct impact on the minimum energy performance prerequisite, which requires projects to demonstrate a percentage of energy cost savings compared to a baseline building. Massing and orientation affect the amount of solar heat gain, daylight availability, natural ventilation potential, and wind exposure of the building, which in turn influence the heating, cooling, lighting, and ventilation loads and strategies. By optimizing the massing and orientation of the building, projects can reduce their energy consumption and improve their thermal and visual comfort.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 279-2801 Building Massing & Orientation | Sustainability Workshop2
A
Explanation:
. Minimum Energy Performance
A project’s massing and site orientation can have a direct impact on the minimum energy performance prerequisite, which requires projects to demonstrate a percentage of energy cost savings compared to a baseline building. Massing and orientation affect the amount of solar heat gain, daylight availability, natural ventilation potential, and wind exposure of the building, which in turn influence the heating, cooling, lighting, and ventilation loads and strategies. By optimizing the massing and orientation of the building, projects can reduce their energy consumption and improve their thermal and visual comfort.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 279-2801 Building Massing & Orientation | Sustainability Workshop2
Question #81
A building owner is considering the installation of a solar thermal panel on the roof of the building. The initial cost of the system is higher than a conventional natural gas system.
Which of the following is true to make the renewable energy option economically feasible?
- A . Utility cost savings over the lifetime of the system must offset the higher initial cost
- B . Higher initial cost must exceed the cost of the utility over the lifetime of the system
- C . Higher initial cost must exceed the savings on the utility cost over the lifetime of the system
- D . Utility cost savings over the lifetime of the system must be lower than the higher initial cost of the system
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
The renewable energy option is economically feasible if the present value of the utility cost savings over the lifetime of the system is greater than or equal to the present value of the higher initial cost of the system. This means that the system will pay for itself and generate net savings in the long run.
The utility cost savings depend on the amount of energy produced by the solar thermal panel, the price of natural gas, and the inflation rate. The higher initial cost depends on the size, type, and installation of the solar thermal panel.
Reference: Solar Thermal: Complete Guide to the Pros, Cons and Costs Renewable Energy vs Natural Gas C How The Costs Stack Up
Is Solar Cheaper Than Natural Gas? – PowerSouth Energy Cooperative LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4
A
Explanation:
The renewable energy option is economically feasible if the present value of the utility cost savings over the lifetime of the system is greater than or equal to the present value of the higher initial cost of the system. This means that the system will pay for itself and generate net savings in the long run.
The utility cost savings depend on the amount of energy produced by the solar thermal panel, the price of natural gas, and the inflation rate. The higher initial cost depends on the size, type, and installation of the solar thermal panel.
Reference: Solar Thermal: Complete Guide to the Pros, Cons and Costs Renewable Energy vs Natural Gas C How The Costs Stack Up
Is Solar Cheaper Than Natural Gas? – PowerSouth Energy Cooperative LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4
Question #82
A project team seeking certification for a new school is attempting to achieve Materials and Resources Credit, Construction and Demolition Waste Management, Option 2. Reduction of Total Waste Material.
What strategy can be taken to meet the requirements of this credit?
- A . Track waste materials per occupant
- B . Track waste materials used on site
- C . Document total waste by project cost
- D . Document total waste per building floor area
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
The correct answer is
D. Document total waste per building floor area.
According to the LEED v4.1 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Option 2 of the Construction and Demolition Waste Management credit requires projects to reduce the total construction waste generated by the project to less than 12.2 kilograms per square meter (2.5 pounds per square foot) of the building’s floor area1. This option rewards projects for implementing waste prevention strategies, such as designing for material optimization, prefabrication, modular construction, deconstruction, and reuse1. To meet the requirements of this option, projects must document the total weight or volume of all construction waste generated by the project, excluding land-clearing debris and excavated soil, and divide it by the building’s floor area1. Projects must also provide a narrative describing the waste prevention measures taken during design and construction1.
D
Explanation:
The correct answer is
D. Document total waste per building floor area.
According to the LEED v4.1 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Option 2 of the Construction and Demolition Waste Management credit requires projects to reduce the total construction waste generated by the project to less than 12.2 kilograms per square meter (2.5 pounds per square foot) of the building’s floor area1. This option rewards projects for implementing waste prevention strategies, such as designing for material optimization, prefabrication, modular construction, deconstruction, and reuse1. To meet the requirements of this option, projects must document the total weight or volume of all construction waste generated by the project, excluding land-clearing debris and excavated soil, and divide it by the building’s floor area1. Projects must also provide a narrative describing the waste prevention measures taken during design and construction1.
Question #83
Which of the following must be included in the Sustainable Sites Credit, Site Assessment?
- A . A targeted Brownfield remedy plan
- B . Historic preservation plan to include neighboring properties
- C . Proximity of vulnerable populations to major sources of air pollution
- D . The surrounding density within a 1/4 mi. (0.40 km) radius of the project boundary
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
The correct answer is C. Proximity of vulnerable populations to major sources of air pollution.
According to the LEED v4.1 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the Site Assessment credit requires projects to conduct and document a site inventory and analysis that covers the following topics1:
Topography
Hydrology
Climate
Vegetation
Soils
Human use
Human health effects
The human health effects topic includes identifying the proximity of vulnerable populations, such as children, elderly, or low-income residents, to major sources of air pollution, such as highways, power plants, or industrial facilities. This information can help the project team design strategies to minimize the exposure of occupants and visitors to harmful pollutants and improve the indoor and outdoor air quality of the project1.
The other options are not required for the Site Assessment credit, although they may be relevant for other credits or prerequisites. A targeted Brownfield remedy plan is required for the Brownfields Remediation credit, which applies to projects located on sites contaminated by past uses1. A historic preservation plan to include neighboring properties is not required for any LEED credit, although projects that involve historic buildings or districts must comply with local regulations and standards for preservation1. The surrounding density within a 1/4 mi. (0.40 km) radius of the project boundary is not required for the Site Assessment credit, but it is used to calculate the points for the Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses credit, which encourages projects to locate in areas with high levels of existing development and mixed land uses1.
C
Explanation:
The correct answer is C. Proximity of vulnerable populations to major sources of air pollution.
According to the LEED v4.1 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the Site Assessment credit requires projects to conduct and document a site inventory and analysis that covers the following topics1:
Topography
Hydrology
Climate
Vegetation
Soils
Human use
Human health effects
The human health effects topic includes identifying the proximity of vulnerable populations, such as children, elderly, or low-income residents, to major sources of air pollution, such as highways, power plants, or industrial facilities. This information can help the project team design strategies to minimize the exposure of occupants and visitors to harmful pollutants and improve the indoor and outdoor air quality of the project1.
The other options are not required for the Site Assessment credit, although they may be relevant for other credits or prerequisites. A targeted Brownfield remedy plan is required for the Brownfields Remediation credit, which applies to projects located on sites contaminated by past uses1. A historic preservation plan to include neighboring properties is not required for any LEED credit, although projects that involve historic buildings or districts must comply with local regulations and standards for preservation1. The surrounding density within a 1/4 mi. (0.40 km) radius of the project boundary is not required for the Site Assessment credit, but it is used to calculate the points for the Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses credit, which encourages projects to locate in areas with high levels of existing development and mixed land uses1.
Question #84
In addition to Materials and Resources Credit, Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction, Option 3. Building and Materials Reuse, salvaged materials contribute to the achievement of
- A . Materials and Resources Prerequisite, Storage and Collection of Recyclables
- B . Materials and Resources Credit, Building Product Disclosure and Optimization – Material Ingredients
- C . Materials and Resources Credit, Construction and Demolition Waste Management
- D . Materials and Resources Credit, Building Product Disclosure and Optimization – Environmental Product Declarations
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
. Materials and Resources Credit, Construction and Demolition Waste Management
Salvaged materials are materials that have been recovered or diverted from the waste stream for reuse. They can contribute to the achievement of the Construction and Demolition Waste Management credit, which aims to reduce the amount of waste generated by construction and demolition activities and divert it from landfills and incinerators. By reusing salvaged materials, projects can reduce the demand for new materials, conserve natural resources, save energy, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Salvaged materials can be counted as part of the total waste diverted from disposal, as long as they are not counted for the Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction credit1.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 263-2642 LEED Certification and Sustainable Construction Waste Management3
C
Explanation:
. Materials and Resources Credit, Construction and Demolition Waste Management
Salvaged materials are materials that have been recovered or diverted from the waste stream for reuse. They can contribute to the achievement of the Construction and Demolition Waste Management credit, which aims to reduce the amount of waste generated by construction and demolition activities and divert it from landfills and incinerators. By reusing salvaged materials, projects can reduce the demand for new materials, conserve natural resources, save energy, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Salvaged materials can be counted as part of the total waste diverted from disposal, as long as they are not counted for the Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction credit1.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 263-2642 LEED Certification and Sustainable Construction Waste Management3
Question #85
When a project team sustainably develops a project site, the design should
- A . increase water runoff
- B . maximize construction pollution
- C . remediate sites already in decline
- D . replace natural water flow patterns
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
. remediate sites already in decline
When a project team sustainably develops a project site, the design should aim to remediate sites already in decline, such as brownfields, degraded lands, or abandoned properties. By doing so, the project can restore the environmental quality, ecological functions, and social value of the site, as well as reduce the pressure on undeveloped lands and natural habitats. LEED offers credits for projects that choose to locate on and remediate sites already in decline, such as the Sustainable Sites Credit, Site Assessment and the Sustainable Sites Credit, Brownfields Remediation1.
C
Explanation:
. remediate sites already in decline
When a project team sustainably develops a project site, the design should aim to remediate sites already in decline, such as brownfields, degraded lands, or abandoned properties. By doing so, the project can restore the environmental quality, ecological functions, and social value of the site, as well as reduce the pressure on undeveloped lands and natural habitats. LEED offers credits for projects that choose to locate on and remediate sites already in decline, such as the Sustainable Sites Credit, Site Assessment and the Sustainable Sites Credit, Brownfields Remediation1.
Question #86
What phase of the integrative process gives the team the greatest chance of success in meeting the project’s environmental goals cost-effectively?
- A . Design
- B . Discovery
- C . Operations
- D . Construction
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
. Discovery
The discovery phase of the integrative process gives the team the greatest chance of success in meeting the project’s environmental goals cost-effectively. The discovery phase is the initial stage of the project, where the team establishes the vision, goals, and performance criteria, conducts a site assessment, identifies synergies and trade-offs among systems, and performs preliminary analysis and modeling of energy and water use1. By engaging in this phase early and iteratively, the team can explore various design options, identify potential savings and benefits, and optimize the project outcomes2.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 28-291 Understanding Integrative Design in LEED v4 – BuildingGreen2
B
Explanation:
. Discovery
The discovery phase of the integrative process gives the team the greatest chance of success in meeting the project’s environmental goals cost-effectively. The discovery phase is the initial stage of the project, where the team establishes the vision, goals, and performance criteria, conducts a site assessment, identifies synergies and trade-offs among systems, and performs preliminary analysis and modeling of energy and water use1. By engaging in this phase early and iteratively, the team can explore various design options, identify potential savings and benefits, and optimize the project outcomes2.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 28-291 Understanding Integrative Design in LEED v4 – BuildingGreen2
Question #87
The project team has decided to substitute the flooring in the school gym with natural rubber flooring that has met the Sustainable Agriculture Standard. The cost of the substituted flooring is $80,000. The project will achieve
- A . Materials and Resources Credit, Building Product Disclosure and Optimization – Sourcing of Raw Materials, Option 2. Leadership Extraction Practices
- B . Materials and Resources Credit, Building Product Disclosure and Optimization – Sourcing of Raw Materials, Option 1. Raw Material Source and Extraction Reporting
- C . Materials and Resources Credit, Building Product Disclosure and Optimization Environmental Product
Declarations, Option 1. Environmental Product Declarations - D . Materials and Resources Credit, Construction and Demolition Waste Management, Option 1. Diversion
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
. Materials and Resources Credit, Building Product Disclosure and Optimization – Sourcing of Raw Materials, Option 2. Leadership Extraction Practices
Natural rubber flooring is a bio-based material that can contribute to the achievement of Option 2 of the Sourcing of Raw Materials credit, which requires using products that meet at least one of the responsible extraction criteria for at least 25%, by cost, of the total value of permanently installed building products in the project1. By meeting the Sustainable Agriculture Standard (SAN), the natural rubber flooring demonstrates that it has been produced in a way that conserves biodiversity, protects natural resources, and enhances social and economic well-being2. Therefore, the cost of the substituted flooring ($80,000) can be counted towards the credit threshold.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 263-2641 Sustainable Agriculture Standard | Rainforest Alliance3
A
Explanation:
. Materials and Resources Credit, Building Product Disclosure and Optimization – Sourcing of Raw Materials, Option 2. Leadership Extraction Practices
Natural rubber flooring is a bio-based material that can contribute to the achievement of Option 2 of the Sourcing of Raw Materials credit, which requires using products that meet at least one of the responsible extraction criteria for at least 25%, by cost, of the total value of permanently installed building products in the project1. By meeting the Sustainable Agriculture Standard (SAN), the natural rubber flooring demonstrates that it has been produced in a way that conserves biodiversity, protects natural resources, and enhances social and economic well-being2. Therefore, the cost of the substituted flooring ($80,000) can be counted towards the credit threshold.
Reference: Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 C Pages 263-2641 Sustainable Agriculture Standard | Rainforest Alliance3
Question #88
What aspects of each space should the LEED consultant consider to identify the regularly occupied spaces on a project to ensure that floor area values are utilized consistently across credits?
- A . Rate of outdoor air provided per person
- B . Fire ratings of installed wall and ceiling assemblies
- C . Average number of occupants standing or seated
- D . Typical duration of occupancy in each space per day
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
. Average number of occupants standing or seated
To identify the regularly occupied spaces on a project, the LEED consultant should consider the average number of occupants standing or seated in each space, as this is the criterion used by the LEED Reference Guide for Green Building Design and Construction, 20091. Regularly occupied spaces are defined as areas where workers are seated or standing as they work (or perform regular tasks) inside a building2. The typical duration of occupancy in each space per day is not necessarily relevant, as some spaces may be used intermittently but still qualify as regularly occupied2. The rate of outdoor air provided per person and the fire ratings of installed wall and ceiling assemblies are not related to the definition of regularly occupied spaces, but rather to other credits such as Indoor Environmental Quality or Fire and Life Safety.
C
Explanation:
. Average number of occupants standing or seated
To identify the regularly occupied spaces on a project, the LEED consultant should consider the average number of occupants standing or seated in each space, as this is the criterion used by the LEED Reference Guide for Green Building Design and Construction, 20091. Regularly occupied spaces are defined as areas where workers are seated or standing as they work (or perform regular tasks) inside a building2. The typical duration of occupancy in each space per day is not necessarily relevant, as some spaces may be used intermittently but still qualify as regularly occupied2. The rate of outdoor air provided per person and the fire ratings of installed wall and ceiling assemblies are not related to the definition of regularly occupied spaces, but rather to other credits such as Indoor Environmental Quality or Fire and Life Safety.
Question #89
Which of the following projects is eligible to pursue the Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Minimum Energy Performance, Option 2. Prescriptive Compliance: ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guide?
- A . 50,000 ft2 (4 645 m2) office project
- B . 80,000 ft2 (7 432 m2) hospital project
- C . 110,000 ft2 (10 219 m2) school project
- D . 140,000 ft2 (13 006 m2) retail project
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
The Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Minimum Energy Performance, Option 2. Prescriptive Compliance: ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guide allows projects to follow the recommendations of the ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guides (AEDGs) for different building types and climate zones. The AEDGs provide design guidance for buildings that use 50% less energy than those built to the requirements of the ANSI/ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1-2004 commercial code1. However, not all building types and sizes are covered by the AEDGs. According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction2, the following building types and sizes are eligible for this option:
Small to Medium Office buildings up to 100,000 ft2 (9 290 m2)
Medium to Large Retail buildings up to 100,000 ft2 (9 290 m2)
K-12 School buildings up to 200,000 ft2 (18 580 m2)
Warehouse and Distribution Center buildings up to 500,000 ft2 (46 450 m2)
Therefore, among the given options, only the school project is eligible to pursue this option, as it falls
within the size limit for the K-12 School AEDG3.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 Minimum Energy Performance – ASHRAE 90.1 – 2010
ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guide for K-12 School Buildings Advanced Energy Design Guides | Department of Energy
C
Explanation:
The Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Minimum Energy Performance, Option 2. Prescriptive Compliance: ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guide allows projects to follow the recommendations of the ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guides (AEDGs) for different building types and climate zones. The AEDGs provide design guidance for buildings that use 50% less energy than those built to the requirements of the ANSI/ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1-2004 commercial code1. However, not all building types and sizes are covered by the AEDGs. According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction2, the following building types and sizes are eligible for this option:
Small to Medium Office buildings up to 100,000 ft2 (9 290 m2)
Medium to Large Retail buildings up to 100,000 ft2 (9 290 m2)
K-12 School buildings up to 200,000 ft2 (18 580 m2)
Warehouse and Distribution Center buildings up to 500,000 ft2 (46 450 m2)
Therefore, among the given options, only the school project is eligible to pursue this option, as it falls
within the size limit for the K-12 School AEDG3.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 Minimum Energy Performance – ASHRAE 90.1 – 2010
ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guide for K-12 School Buildings Advanced Energy Design Guides | Department of Energy
Question #90
A project has a potable water source as well as two alternative water sources.
Which of the following statements is applicable for a project using two alternative water sources?
- A . A project may not use two alternative water sources
- B . Target the uses that require the least treatment first
- C . Match uses by location: indoor sources to indoor uses, outdoor sources to outdoor uses
- D . All alternative water sources should be treated to potable water standards
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The best practice for using alternative water sources is to target the uses that require the least treatment first, such as irrigation, toilet flushing, and cooling tower makeup. This reduces the energy and cost associated with treating water to higher standards than necessary. Matching uses by location is not a requirement, nor is treating all alternative water sources to potable water standards. A project may use more than one alternative water source as long as they meet the applicable codes and standards.
Reference: WE Credit Indoor Water Use Reduction, WE Credit Outdoor Water Use Reduction, WE Credit Cooling Tower Water Use1
B
Explanation:
The best practice for using alternative water sources is to target the uses that require the least treatment first, such as irrigation, toilet flushing, and cooling tower makeup. This reduces the energy and cost associated with treating water to higher standards than necessary. Matching uses by location is not a requirement, nor is treating all alternative water sources to potable water standards. A project may use more than one alternative water source as long as they meet the applicable codes and standards.
Reference: WE Credit Indoor Water Use Reduction, WE Credit Outdoor Water Use Reduction, WE Credit Cooling Tower Water Use1
Question #91
The LEED project has a main entrance and two service entrances in an alley behind the building.
Which entrances need non-smoking signage and at what maximum distance from the door(s) can the non-smoking signage be posted?
- A . At the main entrance, 10 ft. (3 m) from the door
- B . At the main entrance, 25 ft. (7.5 m) from the door
- C . At the main entrance and the two service entrances, 10 ft. (3 m) from the doors
- D . At the main entrance and the two service entrances, 25 ft. (7.5 m) from the doors
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, no smoking signage must be placed within 10 feet (3 meters) of every building entrance, except for alarmed emergency exits. This applies to both the main entrance and the service entrances, regardless of their location or frequency of use. The signage is intended to communicate the no-smoking policy to occupants and visitors and prevent environmental tobacco smoke from entering the building.
Reference: EQ Prerequisite Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction123
C
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, no smoking signage must be placed within 10 feet (3 meters) of every building entrance, except for alarmed emergency exits. This applies to both the main entrance and the service entrances, regardless of their location or frequency of use. The signage is intended to communicate the no-smoking policy to occupants and visitors and prevent environmental tobacco smoke from entering the building.
Reference: EQ Prerequisite Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction123
Question #92
A school wants to incorporate natural daylighting in classrooms on all sides of the building.
What can the project design team explain to the school district about how this strategy will affect the operational energy cost?
- A . Heat gain will reduce the air conditioning load
- B . Having the lights off reduces the electricity use
- C . Reduction in lighting fixture use reduces re-lamping
- D . There would be passive solar heating benefits to all of the classrooms
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
Natural daylighting can reduce the electricity use for artificial lighting, which is one of the major components of operational energy cost for buildings. By having the lights off or dimmed when sufficient daylight is available, the project can save energy and money. The other options are not necessarily true or relevant for natural daylighting. Heat gain and passive solar heating depend on the orientation, shading, and insulation of the windows, not just the amount of daylight. Reduction in lighting fixture use may reduce re-lamping, but that is not a significant factor in operational energy cost compared to electricity use.
Reference: EA Credit Optimize Energy Performance, EQ Credit Daylight, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction123
B
Explanation:
Natural daylighting can reduce the electricity use for artificial lighting, which is one of the major components of operational energy cost for buildings. By having the lights off or dimmed when sufficient daylight is available, the project can save energy and money. The other options are not necessarily true or relevant for natural daylighting. Heat gain and passive solar heating depend on the orientation, shading, and insulation of the windows, not just the amount of daylight. Reduction in lighting fixture use may reduce re-lamping, but that is not a significant factor in operational energy cost compared to electricity use.
Reference: EA Credit Optimize Energy Performance, EQ Credit Daylight, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction123
Question #93
Which item is included in the reuse calculation for Materials and Resources Credit, Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction?
- A . Floor decking
- B . Asbestos insulation
- C . Exterior glazing
- D . Plumbing fixtures
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
The reuse calculation for MR Credit Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction includes the surface area of structural elements that are reused in place or salvaged and reinstalled, such as floor decking, columns, beams, and roof decking. Exterior glazing and plumbing fixtures are not considered structural elements and are not included in the reuse calculation. Asbestos insulation is a hazardous material that should be removed and disposed of properly, not reused.
Reference: MR Credit Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction123
A
Explanation:
The reuse calculation for MR Credit Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction includes the surface area of structural elements that are reused in place or salvaged and reinstalled, such as floor decking, columns, beams, and roof decking. Exterior glazing and plumbing fixtures are not considered structural elements and are not included in the reuse calculation. Asbestos insulation is a hazardous material that should be removed and disposed of properly, not reused.
Reference: MR Credit Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction123
Question #94
A project in a cold climate does not want a highly reflective roof because they want the heat absorption.
How can this project comply with Sustainable Sites Credit, Heat Island Reduction?
- A . The credit is not feasible for this project
- B . The credit may be achieved by using nonroof measures only
- C . The credit is applicable for projects that document this special condition
- D . The credit can only be achieved by using an alternative compliance path
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The credit may be achieved by using nonroof measures only, such as shading, paving, and vegetation, to reduce the heat island effect on the site. The credit does not require a highly reflective roof for all projects, but allows for flexibility and trade-offs depending on the climate and design conditions. The project can use the Heat Island Reduction 1 to demonstrate compliance with the credit requirements. The credit is feasible and applicable for this project, and does not need an alternative compliance path.
Reference: SS Credit Heat Island Reduction, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction234
B
Explanation:
The credit may be achieved by using nonroof measures only, such as shading, paving, and vegetation, to reduce the heat island effect on the site. The credit does not require a highly reflective roof for all projects, but allows for flexibility and trade-offs depending on the climate and design conditions. The project can use the Heat Island Reduction 1 to demonstrate compliance with the credit requirements. The credit is feasible and applicable for this project, and does not need an alternative compliance path.
Reference: SS Credit Heat Island Reduction, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction234
Question #95
What is the basis of energy consumption in determining the percentage of green power or carbon offsets?
- A . Quality
- B . Quantity
- C . Efficiency
- D . Performance
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The basis of energy consumption in determining the percentage of green power or carbon offsets is the quantity of energy used by the project, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh) or British thermal units (Btu). Green power is electricity generated from renewable sources, such as solar, wind, hydro, biomass, or geothermal. Carbon offsets are reductions or removals of greenhouse gas emissions from a project or activity that compensates for the emissions from another source. According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction1, the Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Green Power and Carbon Offsets, requires the project to engage in a contract for qualified resources that meet the following requirements:
The contract term is at least five years.
The green power or carbon offsets are based on the quantity of energy consumed by the building.
The green power is Green-e Energy certified or the equivalent.
The carbon offsets are Green-e Climate certified, Verified Carbon Standard certified, Gold Standard
certified, or the equivalent.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 Green Power and Carbon Offsets | U.S. Green Building Council Green Power and Carbon Offsets – LEEDuser
Green Power and Carbon Offsets – LEED v4 for BD+C: New Construction …
B
Explanation:
The basis of energy consumption in determining the percentage of green power or carbon offsets is the quantity of energy used by the project, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh) or British thermal units (Btu). Green power is electricity generated from renewable sources, such as solar, wind, hydro, biomass, or geothermal. Carbon offsets are reductions or removals of greenhouse gas emissions from a project or activity that compensates for the emissions from another source. According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction1, the Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Green Power and Carbon Offsets, requires the project to engage in a contract for qualified resources that meet the following requirements:
The contract term is at least five years.
The green power or carbon offsets are based on the quantity of energy consumed by the building.
The green power is Green-e Energy certified or the equivalent.
The carbon offsets are Green-e Climate certified, Verified Carbon Standard certified, Gold Standard
certified, or the equivalent.
Reference: LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4 Green Power and Carbon Offsets | U.S. Green Building Council Green Power and Carbon Offsets – LEEDuser
Green Power and Carbon Offsets – LEED v4 for BD+C: New Construction …
Question #96
The material cost for a project is $100,000.
What is the minimum material value needed to achieve Materials and Resources Credit, Building Disclosure and Optimization, Sourcing of Raw Materials, Option 2. Leadership Extraction Practices?
- A . $10,000
- B . $12,500
- C . $22,500
- D . $25,000
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Option 2 of the Sourcing of Raw Materials credit requires using products that meet at least one of the responsible extraction criteria for at least 25%, by cost, of the total value of permanently installed building products in the project1. Therefore, for a project with a material cost of $100,000, the minimum material value needed to achieve this option is 25% of $100,000, which is $25,000.
D
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Option 2 of the Sourcing of Raw Materials credit requires using products that meet at least one of the responsible extraction criteria for at least 25%, by cost, of the total value of permanently installed building products in the project1. Therefore, for a project with a material cost of $100,000, the minimum material value needed to achieve this option is 25% of $100,000, which is $25,000.
Question #97
According to the Integrative Process Credit, the discovery phase of energy-related systems should identify
- A . ventilation rates
- B . functional performance tests
- C . thermal comfort ranges
- D . transportation options
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the discovery phase of energy-related systems should identify ventilation rates, along with other factors such as building orientation, envelope attributes, lighting levels, plug and process loads, and programmatic and operational parameters1. These factors should be used to create a preliminary “simple box” energy model to evaluate the energy performance of the building and explore potential strategies to reduce energy use1. The other options are not relevant for the discovery phase of energy-related systems. Functional performance tests are part of the implementation phase1. Thermal comfort ranges are related to indoor environmental quality2. Transportation options are related to sustainable sites3.
Reference: IP Credit Integrative Process, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction4123
A
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the discovery phase of energy-related systems should identify ventilation rates, along with other factors such as building orientation, envelope attributes, lighting levels, plug and process loads, and programmatic and operational parameters1. These factors should be used to create a preliminary “simple box” energy model to evaluate the energy performance of the building and explore potential strategies to reduce energy use1. The other options are not relevant for the discovery phase of energy-related systems. Functional performance tests are part of the implementation phase1. Thermal comfort ranges are related to indoor environmental quality2. Transportation options are related to sustainable sites3.
Reference: IP Credit Integrative Process, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction4123
Question #98
When considering the Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Thermal Comfort, what is the minimum percentage of building occupants that must have individual comfort controls?
- A . 10%
- B . 25%
- C . 50%
- D . 75%
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the Thermal Comfort credit requires providing individual comfort controls for at least 50% of individual occupant spaces, and group controls for 100% of shared multioccupant spaces1. Individual comfort controls allow occupants to adjust one or more of the following: air temperature, air speed, radiant temperature, or humidity. Group controls are shared by two or more occupants within a thermal zone. The credit aims to promote occupants’ productivity, comfort, and well-being by providing quality thermal comfort.
Reference: EQ Credit Thermal Comfort, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction123
C
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the Thermal Comfort credit requires providing individual comfort controls for at least 50% of individual occupant spaces, and group controls for 100% of shared multioccupant spaces1. Individual comfort controls allow occupants to adjust one or more of the following: air temperature, air speed, radiant temperature, or humidity. Group controls are shared by two or more occupants within a thermal zone. The credit aims to promote occupants’ productivity, comfort, and well-being by providing quality thermal comfort.
Reference: EQ Credit Thermal Comfort, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction123
Question #99
Which of the following could be considered diverted construction waste?
- A . Excavated soil
- B . Land-clearing debris
- C . Alternative daily cover
- D . Asphalt with aggregate
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, diverted construction waste is defined as "materials that are diverted from disposal in landfills or incineration facilities and are instead reused, recycled, composted, or salvaged"1. Asphalt with aggregate is an example of a material that can be recycled and reused for paving or other applications. Excavated soil and land-clearing debris are excluded from the calculation of the total construction and demolition waste for the MR Credit Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction1. Alternative daily cover is a material that is used to cover the surface of an active landfill at the end of each day to control odors, pests, and litter. It is not considered as diversion because it does not reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills2.
Reference: MR Credit Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction3142
D
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, diverted construction waste is defined as "materials that are diverted from disposal in landfills or incineration facilities and are instead reused, recycled, composted, or salvaged"1. Asphalt with aggregate is an example of a material that can be recycled and reused for paving or other applications. Excavated soil and land-clearing debris are excluded from the calculation of the total construction and demolition waste for the MR Credit Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction1. Alternative daily cover is a material that is used to cover the surface of an active landfill at the end of each day to control odors, pests, and litter. It is not considered as diversion because it does not reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills2.
Reference: MR Credit Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction3142
Question #100
A new five-story building with a 30,000 ft2 (2 800 m2) footprint is being designed on a previously disturbed100,000 ft2 (9 290 m2) site. The remaining on-grade surface will be 35,000 ft2 (3 250 m2) of asphalt parking, and 35,000 ft2 (3 250 m2) of native vegetated open space. To achieve a point for exemplary performance under Option 1 of Sustainable Sites Credit, Site Development – Protect or Restore Habitat, the design team will have to incorporate a native and/or adapted vegetated roof with a minimum area of
- A . 12,500 ft2 (1 160 m2)
- B . 15,000 ft2 (1 400 m2)
- C . 25,000 ft2 (2 300 m2)
- D . 35,000 ft2 (3 250 m2)
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Option 1 of the Site Development – Protect or Restore Habitat credit requires restoring 25% of the site area (including the building footprint) with native or adapted vegetation1. To achieve exemplary performance, the project must double the credit requirements and restore 50% of the site area2. In this case, the site area is 100,000 ft2 (9 290 m2), so the project must restore 50,000 ft2 (4 645 m2) with vegetation. The project already has 35,000 ft2 (3 250 m2) of native vegetated open space, so it needs to add another 15,000 ft2 (1 395 m2) of vegetation. Since the on-grade surface is fully occupied by the building footprint and the asphalt parking, the only option is to incorporate a vegetated roof. Therefore, the design team will have to incorporate a native and/or adapted vegetated roof with a minimum area of 15,000 ft2 (1 395 m2).
Reference: SS Credit Site Development – Protect or Restore Habitat, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction13
C
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Option 1 of the Site Development – Protect or Restore Habitat credit requires restoring 25% of the site area (including the building footprint) with native or adapted vegetation1. To achieve exemplary performance, the project must double the credit requirements and restore 50% of the site area2. In this case, the site area is 100,000 ft2 (9 290 m2), so the project must restore 50,000 ft2 (4 645 m2) with vegetation. The project already has 35,000 ft2 (3 250 m2) of native vegetated open space, so it needs to add another 15,000 ft2 (1 395 m2) of vegetation. Since the on-grade surface is fully occupied by the building footprint and the asphalt parking, the only option is to incorporate a vegetated roof. Therefore, the design team will have to incorporate a native and/or adapted vegetated roof with a minimum area of 15,000 ft2 (1 395 m2).
Reference: SS Credit Site Development – Protect or Restore Habitat, LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction13