BREEAM Assessments
Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method
Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method
BREEAM is a sustainability assessment method that sets standards for the environmental performance of non-domestic buildings through the design, specification, construction, and operation phases. BREEAM can be used with both new build and refurbishment projects.
What are the BREEAM ratings?
The BREEAM ratings are as follows:
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Outstanding;
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Excellent;
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Very Good;
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Good &
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Pass
What categories does BREEAM focus on?
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Energy
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Land use and ecology
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Water
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Health and wellbeing
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Pollution
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Transport
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Materials
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Waste
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Management
What is the assessment process?
The assessment although a continual process throughout the project, is formally assessed at two stages of the project, an initial assessment is carried out at the design stage and once BRE are satisfied with the information submitted to substantiate the assessment an interim certificate is issued. A further and final assessment is carried out at the end of the project and this will include a site visit by the BREEAM assessor, once all the necessary information has been provided and the criteria for all the relevant categories has been satisfied, BRE will issue a final certificate, the post construction certificate will also confirm what level of BREEAM has been achieved.
How does BREEAM work?
BREEAM measures a range of performance benchmarks with a view to ensuring that the finished project has been designed, procured, constructed, and operated to a prescribed standard with an emphasis on sustainability.
What are the benefits of BREEAM?
Once a property has a BREEAM certification, it is universally known what standard the building has been designed, procured, built, and operated to, this can result in an added advantage over non BREEAM rated properties in the same market.
BREEAM certification encourages developers, designers and all those involved throughout the concept of the project to the finished product to consider and explore the whole process in an enlightened way that inspires innovative design, efficient use of resources, with a focus on sustainability.
A BREEAM certified building can be expected to result in a more attractive and user-friendly working environment, with reduced operational costs, sufficient facilities for the occupiers, and enhanced features.
Do I have to use BREEAM?
A BREEAM assessment is now an essential part of the environmental Core Planning Policies for the development of non-domestic new construction and major refurbishment for the majority of Local Authorities nationwide, and hence will be a compulsory aspect of the planning process. Even where there is no mandatory requirement to implement a BREEAM assessment a client may decide to incorporate one into their project, with a view to creating a more sustainable building.
Who can carry out a BREEAM assessment?
Only licensed assessors can implement the BREEAM assessment and register the project for the interim and post construction certificate.