LEED FAQ's
What does "LEED 2009" refer to?
LEED 2009 refers to the LEED rating systems developed and implemented by USGBC in 2009. These rating systems include: LEED for Commercial Interiors, LEED for Core & Shell, LEED for New Construction, LEED for Schools, and LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance.
What is LEED version 3?
LEED version 3 (LEED v3) is the current version of the LEED green building certification system developed by USGBC. Launched on April 27, 2009, LEED v3 encompasses the LEED rating systems updated in 2009 (LEED for Commercial Interiors, LEED for Core & Shell, LEED for New Construction, LEED for Schools, and LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance), the online LEED certification tool, and the LEED credentialing program.
Who becomes LEED-credentialed?
Many types of professionals have taken a LEED exam and become LEED-credentialed. The LEED credentials are applicable not only to design professionals--such as architects or engineers--but also to marketing professionals, attorneys, developers, real estate agents, owners, maintenance staff, specialty consultants, product or manufacturers' representatives, lenders, contractors, and any other professional involved in the design, construction, or operation of green buildings.
How does the LEED credentialing program work and what are the different LEED credentials?
Before 2009, there was only one LEED credential: the LEED AP. The LEED credentialing program now provides three credentials that have different requirements. The primary differences among the credentials are level of knowledge, amount of experience, and level of proficiency in green building design. Each credential also has its own unique requirements and fees.
A LEED Green Associate is an individual who has passed the LEED Green Associate exam and possesses the knowledge and skill to understand and support green design, construction, and operations.
A LEED Accredited Professional (AP) is an individual who has passed a LEED AP exam and possesses the knowledge and skills necessary to participate in the design process, to support and encourage integrated design, and to streamline the application and certification process. There are several LEED AP specialty designations.
A LEED AP Fellow will be distinguished by years of experience and contributions to the standards of practice and body of knowledge for achieving continuous improvement in the green building field. No exam is expected to be required to become a LEED Fellow.
Why should I take a LEED exam?
Becoming LEED-credentialed opens the door to a wealth of opportunities within the building, design, and construction world. LEED is the most distinguished and widely accepted environmental design and green building certification in the United States.
Within the U.S. government, LEED is used at the General Services Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Departments of State, Energy, Agriculture, Health and Human Services, and Interior as well as construction for all new and major renovation projects. Most states require new state-funded building projects to achieve a minimum level of LEED certification, and increasing numbers of local governments, higher education institutions, and public schools are also requiring LEED building certification.
