NASCLA Accredited Commercial General ContractorGeneral RequirementsEasy
A new commercial project includes the construction of a retail space. The owner has specified that the project must achieve LEED Silver certification. Which of the following is a primary consideration for the contractor during the pre-construction phase to ensure this certification goal is met?
- AWaiting until the project is 50% complete to evaluate potential LEED credits.
- BImplementing a robust recycling program for construction waste during the build phase.
- CSelecting subcontractors with proven experience in sustainable construction practices and LEED projects.
- DFocusing solely on the lowest cost materials to maximize profit margins.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Selecting subcontractors with proven experience in sustainable construction practices and LEED projects.
During pre-construction, selecting qualified subcontractors is crucial for LEED projects. Their experience ensures proper material selection, installation, and documentation for certification requirements. This proactive step sets the foundation for success.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Delaying LEED evaluation until 50% completion makes it difficult and costly to implement necessary changes and risks certification failure.
- B. A recycling program is important, but it's a construction phase activity, not a primary pre-construction planning consideration for subcontractor selection related to LEED.
- D. Lowest cost materials often do not meet sustainability criteria for LEED certification.
LEED Certification
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a widely used green building rating system that recognizes projects for environmental performance.
- Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
- Certifies buildings based on a points system across various categories.
- Requires careful planning and documentation from project inception.
Memory trick: To build green, you need a green team from the start.