Thanks for this helpful article Mark. We've been doing LEED consulting since 2002 and we typically offer assistance with specifications as a basic service. We explain to our project teams that our role is to "edit and supplement" the work done by a professional spec writer. Sometimes we get a great template to start with, which makes our job easy. Other times the spec writer isn't so adept with LEED. So, my contribution is:
1. Hire a spec writer that is experience with LEED specs.
2. The LEED consultant's role is to "edit and supplement."

Regarding items 3 & 5 above: We agree that sprinkling LEED language throughout the specs is generally redundant. Our approach is to add the LEED section numbers under the "Related Sections & Divisions." We do include our LEED checklist within the LEED section and we make sure we only have "yes" or "no" points selected. Additionally, we find that a pre-construction LEED & commissioning meeting is the most valuable way to ensure the contractors are in tune with LEED requirements.