Rough estimates of LEED effort

LEED AP -- As for pure LEED AP work, I'm inclined to aggree that the hours for large or small projects don't vary much. 300-500 hours for a USA project sounds about right. First projects will take as least 1/3rd longer. Project Team -- As for project team man hours, yes, a LEED experienced team makes a significant time difference... Project Size -- This effects simulation man hours -- CxA efforts -- Change Tracking / Updating efforts (incl. LEED documentation by AP) International Projects -- often have double documentation --> for unfamiliar ASHRAE codes as well as the local norms, never mind translation work. --Much more coaching and spoonfeeding work is often required from the LEED AP and often on not pure AP subject matter. This is not a bad topic to do a proper structured review on.

We are finding that $25,000 to $30,000 is adequate for commercial jobs with knowledgeable teams (Architectural, MEP, Civil, and landscaping), and clients that can make decisions quickly and stick to them. This is for LEED NC up to Silver. Add another $6,000 for Gold and platinum is TBD. We also add for certain systems such as geothermal and on-site renewable energy, as these systems require more investigation and effort. Design and engineering adds are separate. The key here is leadership and knowing how to guild the client (and the team) though the process. If you have a team that's inexperienced, you could double this. As for international work, be careful. Most foreign MEP's are going to struggle with the reference standards used by LEED. You'd be best served to retain an American MEP to design the systems and a local to do the construction documents. Also, finding a commissioning agent could be difficult, and you should consider flying one in as an option. As always- use great care when writing your contracts relative to LEED and your obligation. There has been little litigation so far, but what has been documented were teams that appear to have inadequate experience undertaking the work.