BREEAM Certification: A Step-by-Step Guide

Summary

This article provides a comprehensive guide to achieving BREEAM certification, covering key steps such as choosing the right scheme, conducting assessments, and implementing sustainable strategies. It also highlights the benefits of BREEAM certification, including increased asset value and enhanced marketability. Follow these steps to improve the sustainability and value of your building projects.

Discover how Focus360 Energy can help with BREEAM certification.

** Main Story**

So, you’re thinking about BREEAM certification? Smart move. It’s not just a badge of honor; it’s a solid way to boost your building’s value and show you’re serious about sustainability. Let’s break down how to navigate the BREEAM process, whether you’re starting from scratch, renovating, or managing an existing property.

Choosing the Right BREEAM Scheme: It’s All About Fit

First, you’ve got to pick the BREEAM scheme that actually fits your project. It’s not one-size-fits-all. Think of it like choosing the right tool for the job.

• BREEAM Communities: Planning a whole new neighborhood? This is your go-to.
• BREEAM New Construction: Building from the ground up? Perfect.
• BREEAM In-Use: Already running? Ideal for operational buildings.
• BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit-Out: Giving a space a facelift? You’ll want this one. The problem with my previous office refurbishment, was that we hadn’t considered BREEAM, so were stuck with suppliers we had used before, and designs we had to stick too!
• BREEAM Infrastructure: Got some civil engineering projects on your plate? This is the scheme for you.

Finding Your BREEAM Guru: The Licensed Assessor

Okay, next up? Find yourself a licensed BREEAM assessor. Think of them as your guide through the BREEAM maze. They know the ins and outs of the criteria and scoring system, and they’ll be the ones submitting your rating for review. You can find them on the BREEAM GreenBookLive website, its worth the investment to find a good one. Finding the right assessor can really streamline the whole process, and save you time and money.

The Pre-Assessment: Peeking into the Future

Before diving in headfirst, do a pre-assessment with your assessor. It’s like a practice run. It’ll give you a sneak peek at your potential BREEAM rating, though it isn’t set in stone. More importantly, it highlights areas where you can improve, letting you set realistic targets. Plus, it pinpoints the biggest environmental impacts, helping your team tailor strategies to nail those sustainability goals. Believe me, you’ll want to do this before spending on materials and design features.

Registration and Assessment: Getting Official

Once you’re ready, your assessor will register your project for the official BREEAM assessment. This is where you start gathering all the evidence to show you’re meeting BREEAM’s standards. It’s a wide range of stuff, like project management, energy use, water consumption, and even what materials you’re using. You’ll also be assessed on how waste is managed, this can be tricky.

Getting Ready for the Big Day: The Assessment Categories

During the assessment, your building’s sustainability performance gets a thorough look. And yes, there are a lot of categories. But don’t worry, we’ll go through them:

• Energy: Think energy efficiency, renewable energy, and tracking your usage. Can you use solar panels? How well is the building insulated?
• Water: Low-flow fixtures, efficient irrigation, and smart water management? Tick them off the list.
• Materials: Sustainable, local, low-impact – those are the magic words. Look for recycled content and responsible sourcing. Can you prove your timber is ethically sourced?
• Waste: Cut down on construction waste and boost recycling programs. Get occupants on board with composting too.
• Pollution: Minimize air and water pollution during construction and operation. Choose materials that don’t pump out emissions.
• Transport: Encourage biking and public transport. Make it easy for people to choose green options.
• Land Use & Ecology: Keep site disturbance to a minimum. Protect ecosystems and use green infrastructure to soften your footprint. Can you introduce more green space than before the development?
• Health & Wellbeing: Natural light, good air quality, comfy temperatures, and access to outdoor spaces. Happy occupants make for a happy building. One thing you can’t put a price on is the effect of natural light, it makes the place feel homely.
• Management: Solid environmental management systems. An ISO 14001 certification can be a real plus.
• Innovation: Go above and beyond! Come up with creative solutions that exceed BREEAM’s standard demands.

Aiming for the Top: Excellent and Outstanding Ratings

So, you want to hit the highest ratings, huh? Excellent and Outstanding? It’s achievable, but takes dedication. Consider these extras:

• Life Cycle Assessment: Evaluate the environmental impact of everything throughout the building’s lifespan.
• Embodied Carbon Reduction: Use things like material reuse and low-carbon concrete. Every little helps.
• Circular Economy Principles: Smart materials, resource efficiency, and minimal waste during operation.
• User-Centric Design: Prioritize health and well-being with good lighting, acoustics, and air quality.

What’s in it for You? The Benefits of BREEAM

Honestly, there are tons of perks to getting BREEAM certified:

• Higher Asset Values: BREEAM-certified buildings often command higher prices.
• Enhanced Marketability: You stand out in a crowded market.
• Improved Resource Efficiency: Lower energy and water bills are always a win.
• Enhanced Occupant Well-being: Happy, healthy occupants are more productive.
• Environmental Responsibility: You’re doing your part for the planet.
• Recognition for Sustainability Efforts: Show off your commitment to sustainability!

In conclusion, achieving BREEAM isn’t just about ticking boxes, it’s about creating better buildings and a better future. And besides, who doesn’t want a building that’s both valuable and environmentally friendly? It’s a win-win.