If your project already has a credit-compliant roof in place, this is a no-cost credit.

Projects usually approach this credit through Option 1 materials, particularly if reflective roofing is already in place. High-SRI roofs are typically white or light-colored.

Assess the building’s current roof for compliance. Compliance can be demonstrated through:

Option 1: A light-colored roof with a high “solar reflectance index” (SRI) on at least 75% of the roof area. 
Option 2: A green roof on at least 50% of the roof area. 
Option 3: A combination of both Options 1 and 2.

If your site does contain sensitive areas, be sure to provide a site map that delineates these areas. Ensure that any maintenance and grounds keeping does not infringe on these areas, and be sure to exclude them from any future building or development, even if not part of a LEED project. 

Verify that sensitive areas are being protected throughout construction.

Be sure the contractor understands the importance of any sensitive areas being protected, and your expectations for ensuring that protection. 

Include detailed site drawings and terms in contracts to ensure that any sensitive areas will be adequately protected during construction.

If your project site as a whole does not meet all the credit criteria but you intend to attempt the credit based on special circumstances, be sure to include detailed project drawings delineating the sensitive areas and the development footprint. 

If your project site as a whole does not meet all the credit criteria but you still intend to attempt the credit, begin by verifying that no portion of the site that will be developed is located in sensitive areas or is within the given parameters for limited development. For example, if you have wetlands located on your site, be sure that your development is at least 100 feet away from them. 

If the purchased land was previously parkland, you may make a trade agreement for other parkland that is of equal or greater value.