Get BREEAM Certified Now!

Summary

This article provides a comprehensive guide to achieving BREEAM certification, covering key steps like choosing the right scheme, appointing an assessor, and understanding the assessment criteria. It also highlights the benefits of certification, such as increased property value, lower operating costs, and enhanced sustainability. Follow these steps to elevate your building’s environmental performance and gain recognition for your commitment to a greener future.

Discover how Focus360 Energy can help with BREEAM certification.

** Main Story**

So, you’re looking to get BREEAM certified, huh? It’s a fantastic way to show you’re serious about sustainable building. Plus, it really does pay off in the long run. Let’s walk through the process and how to nail that high rating.

First Things First: Understanding BREEAM

BREEAM, short for Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method, is basically the gold standard for judging how green a building is. It checks everything – from the initial design right through to how it’s managed day-to-day. Think of it as a comprehensive health check for your building’s environmental impact, you know? There are different BREEAM schemes for all sorts of projects. You’ve got New Construction, In-Use, Refurbishment & Fit-Out…the works! Getting this right is key, you don’t want to assess a building for a re-fit as if it was a brand new build.

Picking the Right Scheme

Honestly, this is where some people trip up. Choosing the right BREEAM scheme is absolutely essential, I can’t stress that enough. New build? Go for the New Construction scheme. Got an existing building you want to make greener? In-Use is your friend. And if you’re doing a renovation, naturally, you’ll want Refurbishment & Fit-Out. Each has its own specific checklist and, choosing the wrong one? Well, it’s like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole; it just won’t work.

Get Yourself a Licensed Assessor

You absolutely need a licensed BREEAM assessor. These guys are worth their weight in gold. They’re the experts who’ll guide you through the whole process, conduct the assessments, and handle the submission of all the evidence. Get them involved early. I mean, right from the start. Their insights can really help shape your design and make sure it’s aligned with BREEAM requirements from day one. You can find a list of accredited assessors on the BREEAM website; don’t try and wing it without one. It’ll save you a massive headache later. They can help you plan a route to certification and advise where you might fall short.

Pre-Assessment: Know Where You Stand

Before you get too far along, get your assessor to do a pre-assessment. It’s like a practice run. They’ll give you a preliminary idea of what BREEAM rating your project might achieve. This is super valuable, because it highlights areas where you can improve and informs your design choices. Trust me, a little planning goes a long way. Develop a solid plan that ticks all the BREEAM boxes early on. It’ll make the whole process much smoother and boost your chances of getting a better rating. Remember, early planning can save time and money further down the line.

Registration and Formal Assessment

Next, register your project on the BREEAM website and pay the fees. The real work begins here. The assessor will give you questionnaires and you’ll need to show them your compliance. Organisation is key to a successful assessment.

Certification: You Did It!

If your building measures up, you’ll get a BREEAM certificate. It’ll show up on GreenBookLive, which is a database of green buildings. Plus, your building will get a rating. Ranging from Pass to Outstanding. However, don’t think it’s over. You have to keep the BREEAM certification current! Continually make improvements to remain the best, don’t rest on your laurels.

Maximizing Your BREEAM Score: Key Strategies

Want to really impress? Here’s how to boost your BREEAM score:

• Early Integration: Start thinking about BREEAM from the initial design phase. Trust me, it’s way easier (and cheaper) than trying to retrofit sustainability later.
• Innovation: Don’t be afraid to get creative. New tech, sustainable materials, clever designs – all these can make a big difference.
• Energy Efficiency: This is a big one. Efficient HVAC systems, renewable energy, good insulation – all essential.
• User Well-being: Happy occupants, higher scores. Natural light, good air quality, ergonomic design – it all adds up. Who doesn’t want to be happy at work?
• Water Management: Save water, save the planet (and boost your score). Water-saving fixtures, rainwater harvesting, leak detection are all great.
• Material Selection: Go sustainable and local wherever you can. Think about the whole lifecycle of the materials, from sourcing to disposal.

The Perks of BREEAM Certification

So, why bother with all this? Well, the benefits are numerous:

• Higher Property Value: Green buildings are hot property. They often command a premium price.
• Lower Operating Costs: Energy efficiency saves you money on utility bills and maintenance.
• Easier to Market: Attract eco-conscious tenants and investors who value sustainability.
• Happier Occupants: Healthier, more productive environments for your building’s users.
• Regulatory Compliance: Stay ahead of the curve and avoid potential penalties. Nobody wants fines!
• Better Reputation: Show the world you care about the environment and enhance your brand image.

Achieving BREEAM certification isn’t just good for the planet; it’s smart business. You get increased property value, lower operating costs, and a great reputation. Plus, you’re creating a healthier, more sustainable future. And, let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want that?