LEED-H Innovation & Design Process
The ID section of LEED for Homes (LEED-H) is intended to help structure the design process for sustainable homes and create a method to reward innovation, special design methods and other measures not currently addressed in the system.
ID 1 - Integrated Project Planning
1.1 Preliminary Rating (prereq) - The first prerequisite is a somewhat obvious but important one. As early as possible review the LEED-H requirements and agree on which credits will be utilized and the desired target award level (Certified, Silver, Gold or Platinum) "If you don't know where you are going, you will end up somewhere use." Yogi Berra
1.2 Integrated Project Team (1 pt) - The goal is to identify early in the construction process a compete design team to integrate all the sustainability goals. We accomplish this by working early in the process with the Energy Star Rater, site designer and architect (if applicable). This team, along with you, the future home owner can make all the right decisions sooner in the process to avoid delays during construction.
1.3 LEED Accredited Professional - This item is not yet available, as the USGBC has not completed the development of the exam for LEED-H. As soon as this is available Allen DiAlberto PE will taking the exam for accreditation.
1.4 Design Charrette - This item is intended to devote an entire day to working with the design team to develop green strategies across all aspects of the home design. Although this is an option we don't normally use. One point is available if desired.
1.5 Building for Solar Design (1 pt) - This is one of the most important items for our area here in upstate New York. The ability to use passive solar heating and minimize summer heat gain is one of the reasons our homes use so little energy. We consider this a required item for all of our homes.
ID 2 - Durability Management Process
2.1 Durability Planning (prereq) - One of the principles of sustainable building is to use materials and methods that will last, minimizing waste during construction and throughout the life of the home. By identifying these things early, and incorporating them in the construction drawings we communicate to everyone our intentions.
2.2 Durability Management (prereq) - Once we determine the materials and methods we must make sure that they are used correctly. This requires a documented checklist to be completed.
2.3 Third Party Durability Management Verification - As an option you can have the Green Rater from LEED-H complete the checklist to gain 3 points.
ID 3 - Innovative or Regional Design
3.1 thru 3.4 Innovations - There are four bonus points available in this credit. Use of this credit depends on the design of the home and the options selected.
Summary - Our homes will always meet the required prerequisites, and gain 2 points in this category.