As we transition into a society that vows to protect the environment for the sake of our future, there is a need for our homes to match those same goals.
In order to be qualified as a green building the property must first meet the certifications imposed as well as follow a rigid set of guidelines.
Here are some of the energy efficient home certification requirements :
RESNET The Residential Energy Services Network is a not-for-profit corporation that develops industry-wide standards and rules for energy efficiency ratings and certification systems for buildings. RESNET Also certifies contractors of all types, including builders, roofing and siding professionals, and remodeling contractors.
HERS index The Home Energy Rating System is an index measuring a home’s energy efficiency. An average home built to current industry standards for energy efficiency will have an index of 100. A lower score indicates higher levels of efficiency . The opposite is true with homes that score higher than 100. This index is overseen by RESNET.
LEED Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certifications on environmentally friendly buildings and projects is overseen by The United States Green Building Council .
Projects earn points based on numerous categories such as indoor air quality and water efficiency. More points add up to a higher certification level. The highest certification a building can earn is LEED platinum.
Energy Star The Energy Star program is overseen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Products such as refrigerators, light bulbs, and furnaces can earn Energy Star certifications. Homes can also be Energy Star–certified through an independent inspection.
Indoor airPLUS Indoor airPlus program is also administered by the EPA. Homes that go above and beyond the Energy Star requirements by incorporating additional features to combat moisture, mold, pests, and pollutants can earn this label.
National Green Building Certification Overseen by the National Association of Home Builders, this program helps residential building professionals develop and build sustainable projects. Buildings can earn bronze, silver, gold, or emerald certifications. At the Emerald level — which is the highest certification a project can earn — a building “must incorporate energy savings of 60 percent or more.”
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Information provided by the NAR