Yes, this scenario would meet the credit requirements. The intent is for the building to have automated control over the major building systems, not that one system controls everything. If a building has areas with distinct usage patterns (i.e. an arena), then it is reasonable to have another BAS controlling the functions related to that space. Make sure that HVAC and lighting is controlled for the entire building and that the system has a user interface that provides trend information.

The water use for each equipment type needs to be equal to or lower than the maximum water use specified in the credit language.

The July 2010 LEED reference guide addenda states “‘At least 4 process items’ with ‘All appliances within at least 4 equipment types’" must be used. In other words, if you used just four compliant dishwashers, you would likely not achieve this credit.

Garbage disposals consume large quantities of potable water. Collecting food waste for composting is ideal but food waste can be sent to the landfill if there is not a better alternative. Water efficient scrap collectors and pulpers may also be considered by GBCI.

International products may comply through the German AgBB/DIBt testing method, which is followed by GUT, EMICODE, and Blue Angel. If using the AgBB/DIBt test results, select the 3, 7, or 14 day time point. You should also check that the test parameters match the California Department of Health Services protocol—if not, USGBC will allow you to multiply the test results by a factor of 0.7 to determine compliance.

Yes, it is odd. All the same, unfinished flooring is exempt, while finished flooring must meet relevant requirements.

While products that are inherently non-emitting sources of VOCs (stone, ceramic, powder-coated metals, plated or anodized metal, glass, concrete, clay brick, and unfinished or untreated solid wood) are considered fully compliant without any VOC emissions testing, a tile or similar product that is coated after being manufactured must meet the credit requirements for flooring product certification.

The credit requirements are allowed to exempt unfinished wood, but wood is almost always finished. This is confusing!

While low-emitting throw rugs are a good idea, they would not be considered permanently installed and so would not be subject to credit requirements.

Technically speaking, the IEQc4.3 credit language would not allow you to earn the credit in this situation. The budget method is not referenced in IEQc4.3. However, there has not been an official ruling on this from USGBC, and a case could be made through a narrative or a LEED Interpretation for earning the credit.

No. The credit requirements only refer to flooring installed within the project scope.