For prescriptive compliance, is a CI project required to meet continuous insulation requirements for building envelope if it is not part of their project scope, even if there is nothing in the lease prohibiting us from doing so? Or do we have to add insulation to existing walls, ceilings and floors just to meet credit intent? For example, a reno in an old building, the whole building (5 floors) is being rented by the client, but they are only renovating and certifying one floor.
Would it be different if part of the envelope is being renovated, say the walls, but the floor and ceiling are only getting new finishes, would the floor and ceiling need added insulation?
Paul Conrad
Energy EngineerCLEAResult Consulting
346 thumbs up
June 24, 2010 - 2:55 pm
Kristen,
The credit language is pretty cut and dry in this case. If you're making any changes whatsoever to the building envelope (ie. adding windows, changing walls, putting on a new facade) you're required to meet the prescriptive requirements. If the only renovations being carried out do not include changes to the building envelope, they're not in your project scope and therefore do not apply.
Dee Spiro
30 thumbs up
June 24, 2010 - 3:03 pm
Thanks for the quick response. I'm sorry I'm still needing clarification though. So if part of the envelope is being updated, the WHOLE envelope needs to comply?
Paul Conrad
Energy EngineerCLEAResult Consulting
346 thumbs up
June 24, 2010 - 3:10 pm
That would be correct. What part of the envelope is being updated?
Dee Spiro
30 thumbs up
June 25, 2010 - 4:38 pm
Complicated building. 5 levels including basement, all being rented by the tenant. 1st level is being built out and occupied. Part of the 2nd level is being built out to house mechanical room, but otherwise, unoccupied. All other levels unoccupied and while undergoing some work (lights to meet code in basement and second floor and temp heating to prevent freezing on second floor) are not part of the LEED Project Boundary...I think. Having a hard time defining it. (Any feedback there would be welcome!)
The first level is having the facade replaced. So I know the glazing needs to meet prescriptive requirement. But the floor and ceiling are not in the construction scope, and we would only being adding it if we absolutely have to, to meet the requirements. But we don't want to find out during the review process that we need it, then it would be too late.
Paul Conrad
Energy EngineerCLEAResult Consulting
346 thumbs up
June 28, 2010 - 9:45 am
Kristen,
I've reviewed the CIR's for this credit and they're very clear that only aspects of the building within your construction scope are required to meet the standards in question. As long as you indicate that the Exterior walls are part of your scope and the Floor and Roof are NOT, you shouldn't have an issue with the reviewer.