Navigating BREEAM: A Step-by-Step Guide to Certification Success

Summary

This article provides a comprehensive guide to achieving BREEAM certification, outlining key steps and highlighting common mistakes to avoid. From early engagement of assessors to meticulous documentation and effective communication, each step is crucial for a successful outcome. By following these guidelines, construction professionals can streamline the certification process and maximize their chances of achieving their desired BREEAM rating.

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Main Story

Okay, so you’re aiming for BREEAM certification? That’s fantastic! It really shows a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility in the construction world. But let’s be honest, navigating the BREEAM framework? It can be a bit of a maze. There are definitely common pitfalls that can trip you up and derail the whole certification process. So, here’s my take on a step-by-step approach, some practical advice, you know, to boost your chances of success.

• Step 1: Get BREEAM Involved Early

The earlier you think about BREEAM, the better, seriously. I’m talking initial project planning, the very first design stages. Get your architects, designers, everyone involved from the get-go. Why? Because it lets you explore cool, innovative ideas that really boost the building’s sustainability. Plus, you can often snag some ‘easy win’ credits that way. Trust me, it’s way cheaper than trying to retrofit later on. We had a project last year where they didn’t think about this upfront, big mistake. Cost them a fortune to fix!

• Step 2: Find a BREEAM Assessor ASAP

Now, technically, there’s no set deadline for getting a BREEAM assessor on board. However, getting one early? That’s gold. I mean, their expertise is invaluable. They can help you navigate all the BREEAM criteria, really maximize your rating, and steer clear of common mistakes, especially with those pesky RIBA stages and credit requirements. And they make sure you’ve got all your documentation in order, too, efficiently and effectively. A good assessor is worth their weight in gold.

• Step 3: Open Up the Communication Lines

Communication is key! Make sure everyone’s on the same page, architects, contractors, subcontractors… everyone. They need to be clear on all the BREEAM requirements so that those sustainable design elements actually get implemented correctly during construction. No misunderstandings, minimal errors, and the project stays on track for that BREEAM rating you’re aiming for, that’s the goal.

• Step 4: Documents, Documents, Documents

BREEAM assessments live and die by documentation. Get a checklist together of everything you need – photos, technical reports, calculations, the whole shebang. Make sure it’s all complete, accurate, clearly labeled, and submitted on time. Delays are the enemy here. Regularly check and update the documentation, too, as the project moves forward, and you won’t have a problem. Trust me, I learned that lesson the hard way, once.

• Step 5: Don’t Forget Embodied Carbon

Okay, operational carbon is a big deal, definitely. But don’t forget embodied carbon either. Think about the whole lifecycle of your materials, assess their environmental impact, and go for lower carbon options whenever you can. Sustainable construction techniques are good too, resource efficiency, less waste – all that contributes to your BREEAM success, and a more rounded approach to sustainability, doesn’t it? Ever looked at modular construction? Could be good here.

• Step 6: Innovation and Tech are Your Friends

BREEAM likes innovation, and it likes smart technologies. Consider what low-carbon tech you can incorporate, smart HVAC systems, things that boost energy efficiency, cut down environmental impact, and make the building a better place for the people using it. Do a lifecycle analysis to see how the building performs in the long run, and where you can make things even better.

• Step 7: Energy Efficiency is Key

This one’s obvious, right? Energy efficiency is a huge part of BREEAM. Design and build the building so it uses as little energy as possible. Good insulation, efficient lighting, optimized HVAC… you know the drill. Think about passive design too, natural light, ventilation, all that good stuff. And, make sure the building is user-friendly. Accessible design, good air quality, comfortable temperatures. That’s what its about.

• Step 8: Pick the Right BREEAM Scheme

BREEAM has different schemes for different buildings and project stages. Choose the one that fits your project best. That way, the assessment process is relevant, efficient, and you’re more likely to hit your BREEAM target. And you can use this information in the future too, and it looks great to your clients.

So, there you have it. Follow those steps, dodge the common mistakes, and you’ll be well on your way to BREEAM certification. It’s not just about ticking boxes; it’s about creating a more sustainable built environment, increasing the value of the project, and showing that you’re committed to environmental responsibility. What’s not to like?