I have a client (university) that is certifying a couple of buildings with another company and they are doing it as BD+C: NC. However, they have contracted us for a new classroom building and we have registered it as BD+C: Schools. The question he is asking us is if the BD+C: Schools certification is necessary and if it has advantages/disadvantages against BD+C: NC. My question is if it is possible to change the scheme and if there are advantages or if LEED requires it to be BD+C: Schools?
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Summer Minchew
Managing PartnerEcoimpact Consulting
LEEDuser Expert
170 thumbs up
April 25, 2023 - 9:50 am
LEED for Schools is typically for buildings made up of core and ancillary learning spaces on K-12 school grounds. USGBC has recently revised the LEED for Schools guidance for optional inclusion of higher education and non-academic buildings on school campuses.
There is one prerequisite and a few credits that are part of the LEED for Schools rating system that do not apply to LEED NC. Take a look at LEED for Schools Prerequisite: Environmental site assessment and Credits: Site Master Plan and Joint Use of Facilties. Also, take a look at the LEED Reference Guide Further Explanation section under Rating System Variations to compare the differences within each credit as they apply to LEED for Schools, a few credit with variations that stand out are Indoor Water Use Reduction, Access to Quaity Transit and Bicycle Facilities.