Someone with cleaning expertise (such as a third-party auditor) is likely to work faster and more accurately than in-house staff.

If the audit is performed by two individuals—either from the project team or associated with the project building—this credit requires either one of the following:

If you'd like to hire a third-party auditor to perform the audit but are having trouble tracking one down, contact cleaning service contractors that offer comprehensive, LEED-compliant, green cleaning programs. These service providers often offer a compliant auditing service. It is always suggested that you hire a contractor with a proven track record for submitting adequate LEED documentation. If your project team chooses a third-party auditor, you must provide a summary of the auditor’s professional credentials and experience. 

Remember that either in-house staff or an outside auditor will have to take the time to train, conduct the audit, and compile results. You’ll still save money by not hiring an outside auditor to do all of these things.

This credit is frequently pursued, because it’s very easy to earn as long as you’re willing to hire an auditor or take the time to conduct the audit yourself.

Alternative audit procedures present a challenge for reviewers in knowing whether they are as stringent as APPA. Teams that use other audit protocols must clearly demonstrate to the reviewer that their approach is valid and equivalent to the APPA protocol.

Your project team can receive credit for a non-APPA audit that doesn't follow the exact APPA procedures, but you'll need to demonstrate that the audit was already in place prior to commencing work on your LEED application. Additionally, you must “demonstrate equivalence or superiority to the APPA procedures" in regards to the following key areas in the LEED application materials:

Although you can use your current cleaning service provider, it’s not recommended. Even if you are happy with your current provider, they are less likely to provide an impartial audit, and you miss the benefit of a fresh set of eyes reviewing the cleanliness of the building. 

Decide who will conduct the audit. You may choose one of the following paths: 

Hire an outside auditor, such as a competent cleaning services provider, who is not currently responsible for cleaning the facility.
Ask your current cleaning service provider to conduct the audit. 
Conduct the audit with two in-house staff people working independently and average their results. 

Your project team should submit manufacturer data for all equipment purchased during the performance period. Although you are not currently required to do so in the original submission, you may be asked to provide manufacturer’s data for all compliant equipment during the review process.