The decision to build green is not always an easy one. You know the drill: there’s tedious paperwork to be done, strict rules to consider, and very little leeway.
USGBC, championing green buiding
(Image from www.bestpracticesconstructionlaw.com)
Thankfully, that’s where LEED contractors come in. In their hands, any project vying for a LEED rating becomes more organized, efficient, and cost-effective. They plan carefully, they’re attentive to the little details, they know which ones are essential and which ones are irrelevant. Also, they’ll do the painstaking documentation every step of the way.
They’ll suggest the right substitutions for cost-cutting, they’ll show you the latest trends in building green. And for them to perform their job, they’ll even insist on frequent meetings with the client.
Yes, they seem like a rare species, but once you find the right person to do the job, you’ll be glad you took the time to shop around.
Here’s our three-step guide in choosing LEED contractors who’ll fit your project visions.
1. Check out his/her credentials.
A quick check at the USGBC records will turn up results on buildings that have been achieved LEED ratings and certification, as well as the respective builder associated with those projects—and that’s your lead. Make sure your builder has LEED Green Associate professional credentials, awarded by LEED itself.
Finally, head over to the professional directory of the Green Building Certification Institute to further investigate. Remember, individuals, not building companies, are the ones that get certified, so ask to see those creds.
2. Consult his/her past clients.
Your LEED contractor will be more than happy to supply you with his portfolio of projects. The LEED ratings achieved by the various projects should speak for itself.
But don’t just stop at this list; if possible, ask to be in touch with his previous clients as well. You can interview them about how the project went, what it was like working with the LEED contractor, his style and work ethics, as well as other issues you might need to know.
3. Check out his/her office.
This third handy rule of thumb is quite an obvious one. Chances are you’ll be visiting your potential LEED contractor in their office. LEED contractors might often be working on-site the project area, but they still have their offices to tend.
There’s good sense in paying attention to how they run their place. Is their very office built to LEED standards? How about the operation and maintenance of the building? These little things are always worth checking out because a good LEED builder practices what he preaches.
