LEED GA Practice Cards #1

Which of the following has the strongest relationship with local zoning? A. Water use reduction B. Building Reuse C. Parking Capacity D. Landscape Irrigation E. Daylight and Views F. None of the Above

None of the above Explanation: Zoning can designate several elements of a building project, including the minimum parking capacity depending on building size and function.

Which one of the following elements are excluded from the calculations for construction waste management? A. Hazardous waste materials B. Furniture C. Wood D. Elevators or transport devices

A. Hazardous waste materials Explanation: Hazardous waste is excluded in the calculations for LEED projects, and won't count for or against the project when determining the diversion rate for construction waste management.

Which of the following statements are true of LEED? (Select 3) A. All prerequisites are required based on the Rating System Adaptation. B. Registration is awarded when a project completes all LEED prerequisites. C. LEED Categories differ depending on the Rating System. D. Credits within each category offer potential project points, which determine the LEED Certification level

A. All prerequisites are required based on the Rating System Adaptation. C. LEED Categories differ depending on the Rating System. D. Credits within each category offer potential project points, which determine the LEED Certification level Explanation: Prerequisites vary depending on adaptation, and entire categories can be different when using the LEED ND rating system. Credits, as optional elements of the LEED program, are worth 1 or more points, and determine the certification level of a project.

Which two of the following are nonregularly occupied spaces? (select 2) A. Bathrooms B. Offices C. Living Rooms D. Hallways

A. Bathrooms D. Hallways Explanation: Regularly occupied space is an area where one or more individuals normally spend more than one hour per person per day on average, seated or standing as they work, study, or perform other focused activities inside a building.

Which of the following is true for projects using both electricity and natural gas energy inputs? (select 2) A. Both gas and electric use must be considered when attempting Green Power. B. The project must purchase green power, carbon offsets, or RECs to earn Green Power C. Electric use must be higher than gas use, by cost, to qualify for Green Power D. Gas use is not considered for Green Power.

A. Both gas and electric use must be considered when attempting Green Power. B. The project must purchase green power, carbon offsets, or RECs to earn Green Power Explanation: All energy inputs must be offset, including gas, electricity, chilled water, and all other sources. Eligible offsets are green power, carbon offsets, or RECs.

LEED addresses refrigerants so that which of the following is not implemented, or is phased out of a building's HVAC&R equipment? A. Chlorofluorocarbons B. Global warming potential C. Ozone depleting potential D. Hydrochlorofluorocarbons

A. Chlorofluorocarbons Explanation: Only Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are specifically prohibited in LEED. Other refrigerant types may be acceptable to demonstrate enhanced refrigerant management, provided that the final calculation is within the allowable limits.

A project team's local jurisdiction enforces an erosion and sedimentation control requirement that is more stringent than the EPA Construction General Permit. What should the project team do? A. Comply with the local requirements and include submittals verifying that the requirements are more stringent B. Comply with the EPA Construction General Permit C. Request a variance from the local jurisdiction to be allowed to follow the EPA Construction General Permit D. Submit an appeal describing the local requirements to GBCI E. Submit a CIR describing the local requirements to GBCI

A. Comply with the local requirements and include submittals verifying that the requirements are more stringent Explanation: Project teams need to use to more stringent of either local code or the EPA Construction General Permit, so when local code is the more stringent, it should be used in lieu of the EPA CGP.

What are some simple strategies to reduce the total energy consumption on a building? (Select 2) A. Compressed workweek B. Install incandescent lighting C. Telecommuting D. Increase ventilation throughout the day E. Decrease natural daylighting

A. Compressed workweek C. Telecommuting Explanation: Reducing the time of occupancy decreases the energy consumption associated with occupants, and strategies such as telecommuting (or allowing employees the ability to work from home) and a compressed work week help reduce occupancy.

Which of the following materials may be classified as Rapidly Renewable Materials (bio-based materials) under the LEED rating system? (Select 3) A. Cotton B. Bamboo C. Steel D. Linoleum E. Fiberglass

A. Cotton B. Bamboo D. Linoleum Explanation: Bio-based materials in LEED must meet the Sustainable Agriculture Network's Sustainable Agricultural Standard. These products are composed in whole, or in significant part, of biological products, renewable agricultural materials, or forestry materials.

In working on Light Pollution Reduction, all of the following are required for exterior lighting except? A. Emittance of the parking lot paving material B. Light directed upward to the sky C. Lighting zone classification D. Light directed off the site

A. Emittance of the parking lot paving material Explanation: Light Pollution Reduction addresses light trespass (directed onto adjacent sites) and sky glow (light directed up). The allowable threshold for both types of light pollution are determined based on the lighting zone classification. The credit only addresses the initial illumination from the lighting equipment, and is unconcerned with the emittance (or more likely relevant, reflectance) of site hardscape, since reflected light is not considered.

To which of the following might a demand-controlled ventilation system, and the energy saved from that system, contribute? (Select 2) A. Energy and Atmosphere B. Water Efficiency C. Sustainable Sites D. Indoor Environmental Quality E. Materials and Resources

A. Energy and Atmosphere D. Indoor Environmental Quality Explanation: This system can contribute as both an energy efficiency measure in the Energy and Atmosphere credit category, and as a comfort strategy in the Indoor Environmental Quality category.

Which of the following are considered diverse uses for development density and community connectivity: (Select 3) A. Fire station B. Gas station C. Hardware D. Drive-through coffee stand E. Museum

A. Fire Station C. Hardware E. Museum Explanation: Diverse uses must have pedestrian access, so while a drive through coffee stand or gas station might have pedestrian access, this is not clear based on the description. Fire stations, hardware (store) and a museum all are explicitly listed diverse uses

A rapidly renewable material is defined as one that: A. Has a growth cycle of 10 years or less B. Has a very low life cycle assessment C. Can be recycled with a minimum amount of Energy D. Is naturally grown material that does not require chemical fertilizers to speed the growth cycle

A. Has a growth cycle of 10 years or less Explanation: Rapidly renewable materials can be harvested on a short interval, typically defined as 10 years or less per harvest cycle.

A water efficient strategy to reduce potable water demand for the interior of a building would include (Select 3) A. Installing aerators into lavatory faucet B. Using graywater for flush fixtures C. Installing drip irrigation D. Implementing low-flow toilets E. Installing a green roof

A. Installing aerators into lavatory faucet B. Using graywater for flush fixtures D. Implementing low-flow toilets Explanation: Interior water use includes flush and flow fixtures, and does not include the landscape irrigation.

Bio-based materials, FSC certified wood, materials reuse, and recycled content are all referenced under which MR credit option? A. Leadership Extraction Practices B. Product Manufacturer Supply Chain Optimization C. Material Ingredient Optimization D. Environmental Product Declaration

A. Leadership Extraction Practices Explanation: These strategies are collectively known as leadership extraction practices, and are tallied together to determine compliance under MR Credit Building Product Disclosure and Optimization - Sourcing of Raw Materials.

A project team is attempting compliance with the Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses credit. Which of the following strategies could assist in compliance? (Select 2) A. Locate within 1/2 mile walking distance of at least 10 diverse uses B. Locate within 1/2 mile of a subway station C. Redevelop a brownfield site D. Achieve a minimum density of 60,000 square feet per net acre E. Designating preferred parking for low emitting and fuel efficient vehicles

A. Locate within 1/2 mile walking distance of at least 10 diverse uses D. Achieve a minimum density of 60,000 square feet per net acre Explanation: Development density is attained by having vast areas of built environment within proximity to the project. Minimum density goals can be set, and locating nearby existing diverse uses can provide additional benefits to the occupants.

What statements about the LEED process are true? (Select 2) A. No Credits are awarded during the Design Phase Submittal B. If adequate points are achieved, certification can be awarded at the completion of the Design Phase Submittal C. If the execution of a design phase credit changes during construction, it must be resubmitted during the Construction Phase Submittal D. Appeals can only be made after the full application review.

A. No Credits are awarded during the Design Phase Submittal C. If the execution of a design phase credit changes during construction, it must be resubmitted during the Construction Phase Submittal Explanation: Credits are marked as "anticipated" during the design phase submittal, and are only awarded after the construction phase review because the project team must provide clarification if anything changes in their approach during construction.

A design team for a LEED BD+C: New Construction project has a mechanical engineer and an architect that are LEED Accredited Professionals with a BD+C specialty, and the structural engineer is a LEED AP with an O+M specialty, which would help contribute to: A. One IN point B. Two IN points C. One Regional Priority D. Three IN points E. Enhanced Commissioning

A. One IN point Explanation: Only one point is ever available, regardless of how many LEED APs are principally involved on a project.

If there is a designated smoking area outside the building it must be at least 25 feet away from the building's _________(select 3) A. Operable windows B. Sitting area outside for building occupants C. Outdoor air intakes D. Entries E. Inoperable windows F. Playgrounds

A. Operable windows C. Outdoor air intakes D. Entries Explanation: Smoking areas must be located where environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) won't be drawn into the building.

To achieve LT Credit Sensitive Land Protection, which site CAN a project develop on: A. Previously developed site that is 10 feet above the elevations of the 100-year flood as defined by FEMA B. Prime farmland as defined by USDA C. Land that has threatened or endangered species D. Previously undeveloped land this is within 50 feet of a body of water

A. Previously developed site that is 10 feet above the elevations of the 100-year flood as defined by FEMA Explanation: Any previously developed site will qualify the project for LT Credit Sensitive Land Protection.

Which type of product declaration counts a whole product for credit calculation purposes in the MR credit Environmental Product Declaration? A. Product-specific Type III EPD B. Industry-wide (generic) EPD C. Manufacturer's declaration of environmental performance D. Publicly available, critically reviewed LCA

A. Product-specific Type III EPD Explanation: Acceptable reports include Product-specific Type III EPD (worth a whole product) Industry-wide EPD (worth 1/2 product), and 3rd party certified LCA (worth 1/4 product).

Which of the following strategies would promote better erosion and sedimentation control during construction? (Select 2) A. Sediment Basin B. Smaller Sites C. Grid Pavers D. Mulching E. Light weight vehicles

A. Sediment Basin D. Mulching Explanation: Erosion and sedimentation control is provided by structural and stabilization measures. A sediment basin is an example of a structural control, while mulching is a stabilization control.

Location and Transportation (LT) credit Reduced Parking Footprint is achieved by providing parking capacity that is a percentage reduction below the base ratios recommended by: A. The Parking Consultants Council B. The Parking Engineers Council C. National Parking Association D. International Parking Institute

A. The Parking Consultants Council Explanation: The Parking Consultants Council provides a methodology to calculate the "base ratio", which establishes the number of recommended parking spaces.

Why should a green project be located in an existing community? A. The connection to diverse uses is present B. The zoning approval for the project is easier C. Native plantings can be used for erosion control D. Adequate parking is available onsite

A. The connection to diverse uses is present Explanation: A key advantage to locating in an existing community is access to existing diverse uses such as grocery stores and offices.

What are the requirements when submitting a credit for Innovation? (select 2) A. The credit must submit requirements for compliance B. The credit must have an intent C. The credit must be specific to that region D. The credit must be addressed by an existing credit E. The credit cannot be addressed by an existing credit

A. The credit must submit requirements for compliance B. The credit must have an intent Explanation: Innovation credits must not be addressed by an existing LEED credit, and must submit both intent and requirements for evaluation by GBCI during the certification review.

Which is a common problem regarding many traditional zoning ordinances? A. They do not address issues related to open space B. They are restrictive regarding bicycle accommodations C. They allow developments to exceed minimum parking requirements D. They allow too much mixed-use development E. They allow buildings to be too tall

A. They do not address issues related to open space Explanation: Many jurisdictions do not yet have open space requirements in local zoning laws.

Which of the following best describes a synergy between SS and EA? A. Utilizing a vegetated roof can help cool the building B. Utilizing a vegetated roof contributes to the amount of vegetated open space C. Utilizing a vegetated roof minimizes the amount of storm water runoff D. Utilizing a vegetated roof provides habitat protection

A. Utilizing a vegetated roof can help cool the building Explanation: Vegetated roofs can contribute to Energy and Atmosphere, as use of this type of roofing strategy can reduce the energy needed to provide cooling

The specification writer for a LEED BD+C: Core & Shell project is writing performance criteria for interior paints used in the shared common areas. Which of the following are important considerations when considering indoor environmental quality? (select 2) A. VOC Content B. Ease of cleaning C. Color D. Daylight Factor E. VOC Emissions

A. VOC Content E. VOC Emissions Explanation: Indoor paints must meet both VOC content requirements AND VOC emission requirements. Both should be considered when determining paint selection.

What are two responsibilities of the contractor that support LEED documentation? (Select 2) A. provide evidence of waste diverted from landfill B. provide energy modeling calculations C. provide material safety data sheets or other manufacturer source of VOC data with paint submittals D. provide site photometric plans

A. provide evidence of waste diverted from landfill C. provide material safety data sheets or other manufacturer source of VOC data with paint submittals Explanation: The contractor is responsible for tracking and documenting waste diversion and landfill rates, in addition to collecting manufacturer information about products (such as VOC data).

When calculating percentages for recycled content for materials and resources, what is the equation used? A. Pre-Consumer + (.5) Post-Consumer B. (.5) Pre-Consumer + Post-Consumer C. (2) Post-Consumer - (.5) Pre-Consume D. All recycled content is calculated the same

B. (.5) Pre-Consumer + Post-Consumer Explanation: Pre-consumer recycled content is valued at 50%, while post-consumer recycled content is valued at 100% of the material cost.

Which of the following areas would count against the project when assessing compliance with Views for LEED: A. A person has to look through interior glazing to see out a window B. A janitor's office does not have access to views C. The sill of a clerestory window that runs along three sides of an office is located 10ft above the floor D. A person sits more than 30 feet from a window but has a direct line of sight

B. A janitor's office does not have access to views Explanation: A janitor's office is regularly occupied, and would be included in the views calculation.

All of the following are strategies to reduce outdoor water use EXCEPT? A. Xeriscaping B. Choosing invasive plants C. Using nonpotable water D. Choosing locally adapted plants E. Installing submeters

B. Choosing invasive plants Explanation: Invasive species disrupt native wildlife in a variety of ways, from changing soil chemistry to blocking sunlight, and should be avoided. This is not a water saving strategy.

Which of the following would be factors that would encourage a project to undergo air quality testing instead of a flush-out: (select 2) A. Ambient humidity is near zero and temperatures are between 60F and 80F (15C and 27C) B. Construction is behind schedule, and future tenants are ready to move in immediately C. Ambient levels of CO2 are 9.3 ppm D. The projected LEED certification level is teetering between silver and gold

B. Construction is behind schedule, and future tenants are ready to move in immediately D. The projected LEED certification level is teetering between silver and gold Explanation: Air quality testing can be completed in less time than a flush-out, and is potentially worth more points than the flush-out.

What is the main standard used to define the baseline per flush and flow rates for the water efficiency of fixtures used in the interior of the building? A. WaterSense minimum standards B. Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 1992 C. ASHRAE 90.1-2007 D. Local codes E. U.S. EPA, Water Use Efficiency program guidelines

B. Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 1992 Explanation: The EPAct of 1992, in conjunction with the Universal Plumbing Code and International Plumbing Code, and as amended, describe the baseline flush and flow rates for water using systems.

Which of the following statements are true (select 2)? A. CFC's are naturally occurring B. Fundamental Refrigerant Management is most concerned with ozone depletion C. Fundamental Refrigerant Management is most concerned with global warming D. Existing systems are exempt from the prerequisite E. CFC's are man-made

B. Fundamental Refrigerant Management is most concerned with ozone depletion E. CFC's are man-made Explanation: CFC's are not naturally occurring, and are only produced by humans. EA Prerequisite Fundamental Refrigerant Management focuses solely on eliminating CFCs (other refrigerants are addressed in EA Credit Enhanced Refrigerant Management), which are a major issue related to ozone depletion.

A project team wants to earn as many points in Materials and Resources as possible. Which of the following strategies will help this goal? (Select 3) A. Diverting all soil away from the landfill B. Installing only materials that have high recycled content C. Using new wood certified from the Forest Stewardship Council D. Acquiring as many materials from within 100 miles E. Using non-rapidly renewable materials for floors and cabinets

B. Installing only materials that have high recycled content C. Using new wood certified from the Forest Stewardship Council D. Acquiring as many materials from within 100 miles Explanation: Use of recycled content containing materials, FSC certified wood, and locally produced materials each contribute to one or more MR credits.

Which of the following is NOT a requirement for a whole building life-cycle assessment, as referenced in the MR credit Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction? A. scope of LCA must be cradle to grave B. LCA must include products related to excavation and other site development C. proposed building(s) must demonstrate at least 10% reduction in Global Warming Potential compared with baseline building D. service life of building must be at least 60 years

B. LCA must include products related to excavation and other site development Explanation: The methodologies uses for whole building LCA address the building structure and enclosure, and do not include site work prior to building construction.

Sustainable Forestry is the practice of managing forests to meet the long-term needs of humans while: A. Maintaining competitive pricing with non-FSC-certified wood products. B. Maintaining the biodiversity of forested landscapes. C. Not removing more timber volume than what is replaced for the cutting intervals. D. Saving endangered species trees

B. Maintaining the biodiversity of forested landscapes. Explanation: Overall forest health requires biodiversity. Sustainable forestry looks to maintain forest health (including biodiversity), while meeting the long term needs of humans.

What are the advantages of compact development? (Select 3) A. Larger building footprint B. More efficient public transportation C. Ease of automobile use D. Less sprawl E. More pedestrian friendly

B. More efficient public transportation D. Less sprawl E. More pedestrian friendly Explanation: Compact development, or higher development density, resists outward expansion and reduces sprawl. This created more pedestrian friendly environments, and allows for more efficient public transportation.

What credits use a baseline to perform calculations? (Select 2) A. Heat Island Reduction B. Optimize Energy Performance C. Outdoor Water Use Reduction D. Daylight E. Construction Indoor Air Quality Management Plan

B. Optimize Energy Performance C. Outdoor Water Use Reduction Explanation: Both the energy usage calculations (EA Credit Optimize Energy Performance) and water usage calculations (WE Credit Outdoor Water Use Reduction and WE Credit Indoor Water Use Reduction) compare the design performance to a baseline to determine a percentage reduction.

Which of the following would NOT help increase the open space on a site? A. Minimize the building's footprint. B. Plant only native plants. C. Reduce the parking lot size of an urban site to allow space for a hardscaped courtyard. D. Install a green roof in an urban area.

B. Plant only native plants. Explanation: Native plantings have broad positive impacts, although their use is not relevant when determining open space area.

What are strategies to help reduce vehicle miles traveled to and from a project building? (Select 2) A. Increase the size of the parking lot B. Provide a car-share program that allows the occupants to share vehicles C. Provide preferred parking for fuel efficient vehicles D. Provide preferred parking spaces close to the entrance for carpools or vanpools

B. Provide a car-share program that allows the occupants to share vehicles D. Provide preferred parking spaces close to the entrance for carpools or vanpools Explanation: Reduction in vehicle miles traveled (VMT) is not addressed by encouraging the use of fuel efficient vehicles, and is negatively impacted (increased VMT) by making parking more accessible.

Which of the following types of products can become Green-e certified? A. Furniture B. Renewable Energy C. Roll-out mat cleaning service provider D. Environmental Product Declarations

B. Renewable Energy Explanation: Green-e certification applies to renewable energy and carbon offsets, and is used as the benchmark for qualifying renewable energy in EA Credit Green Power and Carbon Offsets.

Components of the building envelope that would be included in the energy model (select 3)? A. Water closets B. Roof C. Trim D. Windows E. Spray foam insulation

B. Roof D. Windows E. Spray foam insulation Explanation: The energy model includes elements of the building design that will have an impact on energy use. Trim is not included, as it is not significant in determining energy use, and water closets (while very important from a water efficiency side), do not generally have an energy input.

To achieve the Rainwater Management credit, project teams must determine the runoff from each type of land cover. What is the correct volumetric calculation? A. Runoff = Rainfall - Infiltration loss + Depression storage B. Runoff = Rainfall - Depression storage - Infiltration loss C. Runoff = Infiltration loss + Depression storage - Rainfall D. Runoff = Depression storage - Rainfall - Infiltration loss

B. Runoff = Rainfall - Depression storage - Infiltration loss Explanation: Runoff, or the volume of water that leaves the site, begins with an initial rainfall. Any storage, including natural land depressions such as puddles and manmade storage systems such as cisterns, and the losses due to infiltration.

Reducing the amount of light that leaves the project site at night time would result in: (select 2) A. Increased energy consumption B. Safer migrations for birds C. Increased night time criminal activity D. More visible stars

B. Safer migrations for birds D. More visible stars Explanation: Reducing sky glow increases night sky visibility and can avoid disorientation of wildlife, including birds.

A landscape architect would most likely assist in the submittals for which of the following credits? (Select 2) A. Fundamental Commissioning B. Site Development - Protect or Restore Habitat C. Fundamental Refrigerant Management D. Heat Island Reduction E. Indoor Water Use Reduction

B. Site Development - Protect or Restore Habitat D. Heat Island Reduction Explanation: Landscape Architects are concerned with the outdoor space associated with buildings. Restoring habitat (through the specification of native/adapted plantings) and the reduction of heat islands (through use of high albedo/reflectiveness hardscape surfaces) are both typically within the scope of the Landscape Architect.

What material is assumed to have a minimum post-consumer recycled content when no supporting documentation can be obtained? A. Concrete B. Steel C. PVC Plastic Piping D. Cotton Ball Insulation E. Composite Granite

B. Steel Explanation: Steel is the only building product where a default value can be used for recycled content, and can be assumed to be 25% post-consumer. However, many steel products contain 90% or more recycled content, so it is generally advantageous to determine the actual percentage to see if it is higher than 25%.

A project encounters a unique technical condition not directly addressed by credit requirements in a LEED rating system. How should the project team proceed? A. Submit it as an Innovation in Design credit B. Submit a credit interpretation request C. Call their designated LEED Project Manager at USGBC D. Review LEED case studies to find how precedent has been established

B. Submit a credit interpretation request Explanation: The project team can seek clarification prior to their LEED submission by using the Credit Interpretation Request process. The other option would be to submit the credit as proposed during the preliminary review, although if the approach is not accepted, the project team will then have only the final submission to demonstrate compliance unless they use an appeal.

Which of the following is NOT true concerning the use of waste-to-energy as a diversion strategy for Construction and Demolition Waste Management? A. project teams pursuing this compliance option must follow European standards consisting of performance metrics of efficiency and emissions for different types of energy recovery systems B. The combustion of wood or "wood-derived fuel" is considered waste-to-energy and is included in the referenced criteria C. the facility must meet the applicable European standards based on the fuel type D. project teams pursuing this compliance option must demonstrate that reuse and recycling strategies were exhausted before sending material to waste-to-energy facilities

B. The combustion of wood or "wood-derived fuel" is considered waste-to-energy and is included in the referenced criteria Explanation: Incineration is only accepted as a diversion strategy if the waste-to-energy facility meets stringent European standards which govern their operation.

Which two of the following is never considered to be a source for graywater? (Select 2) A. Bathtubs B. Urinals C. Kitchen Sinks D. Lavatories E. Showers F. Toilets

B. Urinals F. Toilets Explanation: Water that contacts human waste is considered black water, and must undergo additional treatment before being used, even for nonpotable uses such as toilet flushing.

The LEED Checklist has which of the following options next to each credit? A. Yes and No (Y/N) B. Yes, Maybe, and No (Y/?/N) C. Earned, Denied, and Audited (E/D/A) D. Anticipated, Earned, and Denied (A/E/D)

B. Yes, Maybe, and No (Y/?/N) Explanation: The official LEED scorecard allows credits to be flagged as Yes, Maybe, and No to enable the project team to begin tracking credits even before the certification process has been initiated.

For MR credit calculation purposes, product and material cost includes which of the following? (Select 2) A. labor costs B. all taxes C. delivery costs D. equipment required for installation

B. all taxes C. delivery costs Explanation: Product cost includes the price paid for a product, including taxes and delivery. Labor and equipment costs, and the design costs, are excluded when determining product cost.

Analysis of a product's partial life cycle, that omits the use and disposal phases of the product, is called: A. cradle-to-grave B. cradle-to-gate C. gate-to-gate D. cradle-to-cradle

B. cradle-to-gate Explanation: Cradle-to-gate refers to a LCA which does not go beyond the end of life stage of the product. Cradle-to-grave includes the disposal phase, while cradle-to-cradle also addresses the reincorporation of the product into the raw materials supply stream.

The project team is looking to life cycle cost analysis as a method for evaluating alternative flooring products. Which of the following should they take into consideration as inputs for the analysis? (Select 2) A. first costs, excluding the cost of installation B. first costs, including the cost of installation C. maintenance and replacement cost, but not life expectancy D. maintenance, life expectancy, and replacement cost

B. first costs, including the cost of installation D. maintenance, life expectancy, and replacement cost Explanation: Life cycle cost analysis (LCCA), not to be confused with life-cycle assessment (LCA), deals exclusively with costs. Specifically, LCCA is a methodology used to assess the cost of ownership, including the installed cost, ongoing maintenance, and eventual replacement over the life of the building.

For the MR credit Construction and Demolition Waste Management, diverted waste includes all of the following except: A. donated materials B. hazardous waste materials C. salvaged materials D. reused materials

B. hazardous waste materials Explanation: Hazardous waste is excluded from the credit calculations, as it can be difficult to find recycling options for hazardous waste, and it would be undesirable for LEED to penalize projects where there is significant need for remediation of hazards.

Which of the following descriptions of construction waste best describe commingled materials? A. separated and sorted onsite B. picked up by a third party and sorted off-site C. assembled together with waste from nearby projects onsite D. re-used onsite E. hazardous

B. picked up by a third party and sorted off-site Explanation: Commingled waste are waste that is collected together in the same dumpster, and later sorted off-site, typically using sorting machines.

How is the total percentage of construction waste diverted from the landfill calculated? A. landfill waste ÷ recycled waste B. recycled waste ÷ (landfill waste + recycled waste) C. recycled waste ÷ [(landfill waste + recycled waste) ÷ recycled waste)] D. (landfill waste + recycled waste) ÷ by recycled waste

B. recycled waste ÷ (landfill waste + recycled waste) Explanation: Diversion percentage is the recycled waste (diverted waste) divided by the total waste. The total waste can be expressed as landfill waste + recycled waste.

How much does it cost to register a project for LEED BD+C certification? A. $600 USGBC silver, gold, or platinum level members / $800 others B. $450 USGBC silver, gold, or platinum level members / $300 others C. $900 USGBC silver, gold, or platinum level members / $1,200 others D. $550 USGBC silver, gold, or platinum level members / $750 others

C. $900 USGBC silver, gold, or platinum level members / $1,200 others Explanation: LEED projects cost $900 to register for USGBC members at the silver, gold, or platinum level.

How many years of historical rainfall data must project teams obtain in order to achieve Option 1: Percentile of Rainfall Events for the Rainwater Management credit? A. 2 years B. 0 years C. 10 years D. 8 years E. 5 years

C. 10 years Explanation: 10 years of historical rainfall data are required unless the full 10-years of data is unavailable. If less than 10 years of data is used, justification must be provided to GBCI during certification review.

Which of the following scenarios would comply with the Lighting Control option of EQ Credit Interior Lighting? (Select 2) A. A classroom with daylighting sensors B. A bathroom with an occupancy sensor C. A conference room with bi-level switching D. A classroom with a dimmer switch on the wall by the door E. An open-floor cubicle office where each desk has an on/off task-light

C. A conference room with bi-level switching D. A classroom with a dimmer switch on the wall by the door Explanation: Eligible controls allow for multiple "scenes" or light levels, and allow user control (not automatic control, such as an occupancy sensor).

Which of the following is the best definition for zoning? A. A government arrangement regarding the use of a building B. A legal instrument regulating environmental impacts C. A legal instrument regulating land use D. A voluntary agreement regarding land use E. A legal instrument regulating the use of a building

C. A legal instrument regulating land use Explanation: Zoning determines what uses are allowable for a given parcel of land, and are enforceable by law.

Which of the following organizations publish data regarding the emissions and/or fuel efficiency of vehicles? A. TSA B. CARB C. ACEEE D. SCAQMD E. AAA

C. ACEEE Explanation: The American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) publishes an annual rating guide that scores vehicles related to emissions and fuel economy.

LEED uses a referenced standard to determine if a vehicle is considered green. Which organization publishes the annual vehicle ratings used by LEED? A. American Council for Electric Vehicles Guide B. Federal Electric Power Systems Manual (FEPS) C. American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) D. National Council for Green Vehicles Manual (NCGVM)

C. American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) Explanation: The ACEEE publishes their annual guide, rating cars of that year and assigning a single numerical score. Cars scoring a 45 or higher are considered green vehicles for the purposes of LEED.

All of the following are stated characteristics of the LEED rating system, except A. Academic B. Consensus-based C. Democratic D. Market-driven E. Voluntary

C. Democratic Explanation: LEED is a voluntary program, that is market-driven and consensus-based. While elements of the LEED program are academic and democratic, neither of these terms are used by USGBC to describe the program.

What reference standard sets the baseline for indoor water consumption? A. ASTM E1903-11 B. ASHRAE 62.1-2010 C. Energy Policy Act of 1992 D. EPA WaterSense

C. Energy Policy Act of 1992 Explanation: The Energy Policy Act (EPAct) 1992 is the primary source used to establish the baseline flush and flow rates used in LEED water calculations.

Which of the following should not be included in the project budget? A. Life Cycle Analysis B. Extra contingencies for research C. Government lobbying fees D. Sustainability Expert E. Hard and Soft Costs

C. Government lobbying fees Explanation: The project budget includes all hard costs (labor and materials) and soft costs (design). Political expenditures such as lobbying are never included.

Which of the following is an acceptable product reference to LEED? A. Greenwood chairs qualify for 2 points in LEED due to FSC construction B. Greenwood chairs are LEED products C. Greenwood chairs are FSC certified, and contribute to LEED credits D. Greenwood chairs are LEED certified

C. Greenwood chairs are FSC certified, and contribute to LEED credits Explanation: Only projects (not products) become LEED certified, and while individual products may contribute, no product can independently earn points without taking the entire project context into account. Additionally, products are never officially prequalified, so it would be inaccurate to say that anything is a LEED product (except perhaps for the Reference Guides

The concept of Albedo relates to what LEED credit? A. Low-Emitting Materials B. Light Pollution Reduction C. Heat Island Reduction D. Enhanced Refrigerant Management

C. Heat Island Reduction Explanation: Refrigerants have both an ozone depletion potential (ODP) and a global warming potential (GWP) that is specific to the type of refrigerant.

A project's mechanical engineer has suggested that the ventilation rate be raised to 30% above the requirements of ASHRAE 62.1-2010. What impact will this have on the building? A. Assist in meeting building flush out requirements B. Improve building energy efficiency C. Improve the building's indoor air quality D. Reduce the building's thermal comfort

C. Improve the building's indoor air quality Explanation: Increasing ventilation rates helps maintain high quality indoor air.

What is NOT a correct statement about LEED BD+C: Schools? (Select 2) A. LEED BD+C: Schools addresses issues such as classroom acoustics, master planning, and mold prevention B. LEED BD+C: Schools recognizes the unique nature of the design and construction of K-12 schools C. K-12 projects can utilize either LEED BD+C: Schools or LEED BD+C: New Construction rating system adaptations D. LEED BD+C: Schools is based on the LEED BD+C: New Construction rating system adaptation E. LEED BD+C: Schools scoring is based on a possible 120 point allocation

C. K-12 projects can utilize either LEED BD+C: Schools or LEED BD+C: New Construction rating system adaptations E. LEED BD+C: Schools scoring is based on a possible 120 point allocation Explanation: K-12 schools must use the LEED BD+C: Schools rating system adaptation, and are barred from using LEED BD+C: New Construction. Additionally, all LEED v4 rating systems and their adaptations have 100 base points, with 10 bonus points for a universal 110 possible points.

Is a LEED AP on the project team required to register the project on LEED-Online? A. Yes, but the LEED AP can be from a subcontractor B. Yes, but the LEED AP must be a primary member of the project team C. No, but the project would earn one point for having a LEED AP as a primary member of the project team D. No, but using a LEED AP would reduce the registration fee

C. No, but the project would earn one point for having a LEED AP as a primary member of the project team A LEED AP is not required to participate in the LEED process, although in addition to the skills that they would bring to the table in terms of fostering the LEED process, there is a bonus point available for having a LEED AP as a principal member of the project team.

Using native and adapted plant species can help to achieve which of the following? (Select 3) A. Reduce the amount of suspended solids found in rain water B. Reduce storm water runoff C. Provide benefits for local wildlife D. Prevent erosion E. Reduce the need for pesticides or fertilizers F. Reduce the amount of water required for irrigation

C. Provide benefits for local wildlife E. Reduce the need for pesticides or fertilizers F. Reduce the amount of water required for irrigation Explanation: Use of native species decreases the amount of water and fertilizer needed to maintain landscapes, and fits into the existing ecosystem, providing benefits for local wildlife.

Captured stormwater could be used to help with all the following EXCEPT: A. Reducing potable water demand for landscaping irrigation B. Reducing the peak rate and quantity of stormwater runoff from a project site C. Reducing a project's impact on the heat island effect D. Reducing potable water demand for sewage conveyance

C. Reducing a project's impact on the heat island effect Explanation: Captured stormwater can be used for irrigation or for use in flush fixtures, and by capturing this water during rain events, it can reduce the peak rate and overall quantity of stormwater discharge from the site.

A commercial project is at the construction documents stage when the owner decides to add an indoor smoking lounge on the first floor. Which of the following is accurate? A. The project may earn exemplary performance for Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control B. The project does not require special considerations for the indoor smoking area. C. The project must choose between LEED and the indoor smoking room D. Smoking rooms are allowed if sufficient provisions are in place to protect adjacent spaces.

C. The project must choose between LEED and the indoor smoking room Explanation: Indoor smoking is prohibited in all LEED v4 rating systems and their adaptations, with the exception of private residences, which still require extensive cross contamination controls

A newly built high-rise residential building has been occupied for two months. Which of the following LEED rating systems can be attempted at this time? A. Operations & Maintenance B. Operations & Maintenance or Building Design and Construction C. There are no applicable rating systems D. Homes E. Operations & Maintenance or Homes

C. There are no applicable rating systems Explanation: Building Design and Construction is for the design and construction of buildings, and does not address existing buildings unless there is a major renovation. Operations and Maintenance requires that the building have at least 1 year of energy usage data to generate an ENERGY STAR score. Therefore no Rating Systems are currently applicable to the project as described.

Water is periodically discharged from cooling towers as blowdown. Why is this necessary? A. Blowdown is an optional process, used to increase efficiency B. To reduce formation of ice C. To reduce concentrations of dissolved solids D. To prevent the formation of radioactive isotopes E. To avoid unsafe water temperatures

C. To reduce concentrations of dissolved solids Explanation: Blowdown is used to prevent the buildup of dissolved solids such as calcium in the system. Heightened levels of dissolved solids can cause excessive wear and tear on the equipment, and reduce operational efficiencies.

LEED Project Registration provides which of the following? (Select 2) A. three Credit Interpretation Rulings B. one point towards LEED Certification for registration prior to schematic design C. access to online LEED Credit Templates for the project D. establishment of contact between the USGBC and the designated project contact E. technical support and information on the best-practice design strategies, methods, and costs

C. access to online LEED Credit Templates for the project D. establishment of contact between the USGBC and the designated project contact Explanation: Project registration is the process of establishing an entry in LEED Online, and provides access to the online resources such as the LEED Credit Templates. USGBC maintains a wealth of additional information online, much of it freely available, although access to this supplemental literature does not require a registered project.

Which of the following refers to the act of approving a project team's submittals and issuing an award? A. registration B. accreditation C. certification D. ruling E. recognition

C. certification Explanation: Approving submittals and issuing an award, like LEED Gold, is known as a certification process.

Which two are not accounted for in Thermal Comfort as determined by ASHRAE Standard 55-2010? (Select 2) A. humidity B. air movement C. daylight D. ventilation effectiveness E. radiant temperature

C. daylight D. ventilation effectiveness Explanation: Thermal comfort can be controlled by addressing humidity, air movement, air temperature, or radiant temperature. Additional factors, although not typically addressable by the designer, include the metabolic rate and clothing worn by occupants.

Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control is concerned mainly with which one of the following? A. providing the minimum rate of ventilation required to sufficiently dilute smoke from tobacco B. providing smoking rooms so that smokers will have a place to smoke freely C. preventing tobacco smoke from contaminating the air in occupied spaces D. preventing tobacco smoke from contributing to the contamination of natural environments

C. preventing tobacco smoke from contaminating the air in occupied spaces Explanation: Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) control seeks to minimize impacts from cigarette smoke in the air, including its adverse human health impacts when introduced to occupied indoor space.

What would help encourage the use of green vehicles? (select 2) A. Provide discounted parking for green vehicles. B. Encourage a car-share program. C. Install parking meters. D. Designate parking spaces near the building entrance for green vehicles.

Correct Answers: A. Provide discounted parking for green vehicles. D. Designate parking spaces near the building entrance for green vehicles. Explanation: Designating green vehicle parking spaces in a desirable location, especially if they are prominently marked, can be a powerful incentive for building users to consider preferred vehicles.

What is the legal instrument that regulates current land use? A. Licensing B. Commissioning C. Abatement D. Zoning

D. zoning Explanation: Zoning is a formal designation of how land may be used, and clarifies if a given piece of land can be used for residential, commercial, or industrial uses.

When choosing a project site, which of the following would be the best option to develop on? A. A marshland that supports endangered species B. A greenfield close the highway C. An undeveloped site next to a wetland D. A previously developed site within a brownfield

D. A previously developed site within a brownfield Explanation: Previously developed land should be given preference, and automatically qualifies the project to earn LT Credit Sensitive Land Protection.

Which of the following would be considered a soft cost? A. The cost of all new wood products B. The cost of a product, including operations and maintenance C. The cost of a building HVAC system D. Environmental Consultant Fees

D. Environmental Consultant Fees Explanation: Of these 4 cost items, only the consultant fees would be considered a soft cost, with the other 3 items classified as hard costs.

The USGBC regional councils and chapter collaborated to determine the Regional Priority credit, in which credits were identified, based on: A. Major environmental issues for the US B. EPA guidelines C. Water and energy conservation concerns D. Environmental importance for a project's region

D. Environmental importance for a project's region Explanation: Regional Priority credits reflect the locally important factors, and slightly rebalance the points of the LEED program according to the region

What is water lost through plants plus water evaporated from the soil? A. Leakage Rate B. Water Loss Coefficient C. Evapotranspiration Rate D. Evapotranspiration

D. Evapotranspiration Explanation: Evapotranspiration is the process of soil evaporation plus the water used in the transpiration process in plants.

When is it acceptable to use the USGBC member logo? A. For use by a member of a local USGBC chapter B. Anyone can use the USGBC member log C. For use with a material that contributes to LEED projects D. For use only with a company that is a national USGBC member E. For use by a company that registers a project for LEED certification

D. For use only with a company that is a national USGBC member Explanation: Only members of USGBC (not local chapters) can use the USGBC logo to indicate membership. While many products do include the USGBC logo on packaging, it is used in reference to the member company, not the individual product.

Which of the following best describes a synergy between EQ and EA? A. Increased daylight glazing could increase the effects of volatile organic compounds B. Increased daylight glazing would increase the work-load of the commissioning authority C. Increased daylight glazing could minimize the impacts of the heat island effect D. Increased daylight glazing could reduce the need for electric lighting E. Increased daylight glazing could reduce the need for ozone depleting substances

D. Increased daylight glazing could reduce the need for electric lighting Explanation: Increasing daylight (an Indoor Environmental Quality strategy) can reduce the need for, and energy used by, electric lighting (an Energy and Atmosphere strategy).

Each of the following are LEED rating system adaptations except: A. Retail B. New Construction C. Data Centers D. Multiple Buildings E. Healthcare

D. Multiple Buildings Explanation: Multiple Buildings is an approach to certifying buildings that are either located on a campus or are included in the same LEED project. In the multiple buildings approach, the project team would select the Rating System Adaptation, such as LEED for Healthcare.

A project team is deciding if various innovative strategies are eligible for points in the Innovation category. Which of the following are recommended approaches? A. File an appeal to be sure that the strategy is eligible. B. Read the reference guide to be sure the strategy is not already addressed in an existing credit. C. Submit one CIR containing all of the strategies in question. D. Read the ID credit catalog document. E. Consult a local USGBC chapter.

D. Read the ID credit catalog document. Explanation: USGBC provides the ID credit catalog to describe strategies that have been used to attempt Innovation credits in LEED.

Structural controls for erosion and sedimentation control: (Select 2) A. Pervious pavement B. Mulching C. Retaining wall D. Silt fencing E. Sediment traps

D. Silt fencing E. Sediment traps Explanation: Silt fencing and sediment traps are structural controls. Mulching is a stabilization control, and retaining walls and pervious pavement are not generally considered erosion and sedimentation control measures.

Which of the following is true for Bicycle Storage for LEED? A. All bike-commuters must have head-lights B. Bike lanes must be provided starting 1 mile away C. Schools have to provide a bike-share program D. The number of bike racks required is partially based on peak users

D. The number of bike racks required is partially based on peak users Explanation: Short term bike parking is determined based on peak users.

Which of the following elements would not be included in the scope of fundamental refrigerant management? (Select 2) A. Base Building HVAC systems B. Chilled water systems C. Central air conditioning D. Water cooler E. Standard refrigerator

D. Water cooler E. Standard refrigerator Explanation: Equipment such as standard refrigerators, small water coolers, and any other equipment containing less than 0.5 pound of refrigerant, are exempted.

What referenced standard is used to develop an energy simulation? A. Energy Policy Act of 1992 B. CIBSE Applications Manual 10 C. Green Score D. ASHRAE 55-2010 E. ASHRAE 90.1-2010

E. ASHRAE 90.1-2010 Explanation: defines the baseline system used for energy use comparisons, and provides guidelines on how buildings should be modeled.

Achieving which of the following credits or prerequisites would most benefit from the involvement of the facility manager? A. Construction and Demolition Waste Management B. Construction Activity Pollution Prevention C. High Priority Site D. Daylight E. Advanced Energy Metering

E. Advanced Energy Metering Explanation: Building operations professionals, such as the facility manager, are specifically involved with operations related credits. Of the credits shown, only EA Credit Advanced Energy Metering includes direct involvement by the facilities team

Which of the following could be considered an innovative strategy and could gain Innovation points for a new construction project certification? A. Installing a xeriscape B. Utilizing materials with 100% recycled content C. Utilizing a vegetated roof that grows organic produce D. Locating in a dense urban business district where many sustainable businesses are headquartered E. Green housekeeping

E. Green housekeeping Explanation: Only strategies that are not addressed by existing LEED credits, and are measurable and significant in nature, are eligible as an Innovation credit.

For the Light Pollution Reduction credit, light trespass refers to: A. Negligible violation of property rights B. Horizontal illuminance calculated by the highest luminaire for the project C. Horizontal illuminance calculated by the shortest luminaire for the project D. Intrusive illumination that is harmless and neutral in effect E. Obtrusive illumination that is unwanted

E. Obtrusive illumination that is unwanted Explanation: Light trespass refers to unwanted light that crosses the project's lighting boundary. It can cause glare, and diminish the appearance of the neighboring site.

Which one of the following best describes the parameter(s) to which ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2010 applies? A. outdoor lighting levels and luminaire cutoff angles B. thermal comfort C. environmental tobacco smoke D. air volumes for building flush-out E. ventilation and indoor air quality

E. ventilation and indoor air quality Explanation: AHSRAE 62.1-2010 establishes minimum outdoor air ventilation rates, depending on space use and size.

A new 30-story commercial office building is being located in the downtown core of Seattle, WA. Prior to development, the site was listed by the EPA National Priorities List as a Superfund site. What strategies might be most appropriate for the project based on these characteristics? A. Sensitive Land Protection B. Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses C. High Priority Site D. Advanced Energy Metering

Sensitive Land Protection, Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses, and High Priority Site Explanation: Superfund sites, or sites where there is significant existing contamination, are considered a high priority site in LEED. Additionally, use of previously developed land is sensitive land protection, and location in downtown of a major city encourages surrounding density and diverse uses.