Get BREEAM Certified: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Summary

This article provides a comprehensive guide to achieving BREEAM certification, covering key steps like pre-assessment planning, design stage assessment, post-construction review, and final certification. It also highlights the benefits of BREEAM certification, such as lower operating costs, enhanced property value, and improved occupant well-being. Follow these steps to make your building more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

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** Main Story**

Okay, so you’re thinking about getting your building BREEAM certified? Excellent choice! In today’s world, going green isn’t just a trend; it’s a necessity. BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is basically the gold standard for environmentally friendly buildings. It’s a framework that helps you assess and improve your building’s environmental impact, but the process can be daunting. That’s where this step-by-step guide comes in, hopefully, it’ll make things a little easier.

First Off, What Exactly Is BREEAM?

Think of BREEAM as a comprehensive checklist for sustainability. It looks at everything: from how much energy the building uses and how much water it consumes to the materials you’ve used and the waste it generates. It even considers things like transport accessibility and the health and well-being of the people inside. Each category gets a weighted score based on how environmentally significant it is, and these scores add up to your overall BREEAM rating. Its a great system, and can really help!

Step 1: Pre-Assessment – Know What You’re Getting Into

Right, so before you dive headfirst, you really need to understand what BREEAM is all about and what it requires. That means digging into the criteria and requirements.

Then, do a ‘gap analysis.’ Basically, figure out how your building currently stacks up against BREEAM standards. Where are you doing well? Where do you need to improve? This helps you create a roadmap. I remember when I was doing it, it was really helpful to just have a clear plan in my head from the outset.

Now, this is where a BREEAM Accredited Professional (AP) can be a lifesaver. They’re experts who can guide you through the entire process. Honestly, it’s worth the investment. Oh, and decide what BREEAM rating you’re aiming for early on, it makes the whole process so much easier.

• Understand BREEAM’s criteria.
• Conduct a gap analysis.
• Consider hiring a BREEAM AP.
• Set your target rating.

Step 2: Design Stage – Build it Green From the Start

So, this is where the real fun begins! When you’re designing (or renovating), you need to actively think about sustainability. Optimize the building’s orientation and design to use as little energy as possible. Energy-efficient heating, cooling, and ventilation are a must. And don’t forget about water! Things like efficient fixtures and rainwater harvesting can make a big difference.

Choose materials wisely – go for those with a low environmental impact. And think about how you can minimize waste during construction. Most importantly, document everything meticulously. You’ll need it later for the assessment.

• Optimize building design for energy efficiency.
• Incorporate energy-efficient systems.
• Prioritize water conservation.
• Select sustainable materials.
• Document everything!

Step 3: Post-Construction – Show Off Your Green Credentials

So, the building’s up, but you’re not done yet. A BREEAM assessor will come in to review everything and make sure it matches the design-stage targets. Ensure the building operates as expected and meets those benchmarks. This means having all the right paperwork ready, including commissioning reports, energy performance data, and material certifications. The assessor will also want to do a site visit to verify the building’s sustainable features. Its important, therefore, that the visit goes well!

• Ensure building operation meets design targets.
• Provide all necessary documentation.
• Prepare for site visits.

Step 4: Final Certification – The Finish Line

Finally! The assessor submits all the documentation to BRE Global for a final check. If everything’s in order, they’ll issue the BREEAM certificate, showing your building’s rating. It’s proof of your commitment to sustainability, and it’s something to be proud of.

• Assessor submits documentation.
• BRE Global conducts quality assurance.
• BREEAM certificate is issued.

What’s In It For You? The Benefits of BREEAM

Okay, so why bother with all this? Well, BREEAM certification has some serious perks. For one, you’ll save money. BREEAM-certified buildings use less energy and water, which means lower operating costs. And it’ll boost your property value, too. Environmentally conscious buyers and tenants are willing to pay more for sustainable buildings, that’s just the state of the market right now.

But it’s not just about money. BREEAM promotes healthier indoor environments, which improves the comfort, productivity, and health of the people who use the building. Plus, you’re doing your part for the environment. Reducing your building’s environmental footprint contributes to a more sustainable future.

• Reduced operating costs.
• Enhanced property value.
• Improved occupant well-being.
• Environmental stewardship.

BREEAM vs. The Competition

Sure, there are other green building certifications out there. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a big one. But BREEAM stands out because it’s so comprehensive. While LEED tends to focus heavily on energy efficiency, BREEAM takes a broader approach, considering a wider range of sustainability factors. So, which one’s better? Honestly, it depends on your specific goals and priorities, and maybe even what’s popular or expected in your particular market.

In Conclusion: Go Green, It’s Worth It!

Getting BREEAM certification isn’t a walk in the park, but it’s absolutely worth it. By following these steps and working with BREEAM professionals, you can navigate the process successfully and reap the rewards of sustainable building. Not only will you be making a positive impact on the environment, but you’ll also be enhancing your property’s value and the well-being of its occupants. So, what are you waiting for? It will be worth it, I promise!