LEED for Homes

The LEED for Homes rating system gives homeowners the opportunity for healthy and efficient living. The rating system enables property owners of single-family or multi-unit homes to provide a great living environment for their tenants.

As with other LEED rating systems, the third-party certification required by the LEED for Homes rating system verifies that the home meets the high standards of the USGBC and gives the owner assurance of a sensible and sustainable investment.

The many benefits of a LEED-rated home to the occupant include:

• Low energy and water bills (30 – 60% better efficiency)
• Low greenhouse gas emissions
• Low exposure to mold, mildew and other toxins
• Durability
• Net cost is comparable to a conventionally built home

REGREEN

REGREEN guidelines are a set of resources and tools for green home remodeling projects. These remodeling guidelines were developed by the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Foundation and the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) for homeowners and professionals to follow. Unlike other USGBC rating programs, a home remodeled under REGREEN is not certified.

A home remodel following REGREEN guidelines give the homeowner assurance that healthy and sustainable products and practices are used, resulting in a healthy living environment and an environmentally friendly home.

Benefits of green remodeling include:

• Healthy living environment
• Excellent air quality
• Low operating costs
• Low impact of the home on the environment

There are several LEED-certified homes in West Michigan and many more being built. In the coming months we will be providing examples of many of these homes giving you the ability to make informed decisions based on real-life examples.

What Can You Do to Get Involved and Learn More?

Our LEED for Homes circle group is open to national and chapter members. We have speakers at our meetings who review case studies of current and certified projects. We are also in the process of studying each credit. We warmly welcome guests who want to learn more about green building and the chapter. Our meetings are held the second Wednesday of the month. The location varies so be sure to check the chapter calender for times, locations and updates! 

Finding a Green Home Program That's Right for You

For a checklist comparing various Green Home Programs and a FAQs sheet on Green Home Programs, click here.

Next Meeting: Meetings are returning to the second Wednesday of the month and we will be meeting a little later.

Visit our Calendar of Events

Upcoming meeting agenda, please click here.

Minutes From Our Latest Meetings:

• Minutes - Feb 13, 2009
• Minutes - May 8, 2009
• Minutes - Feb 17 2010
• Minutes - March 17,2010
 

Other News:

• Legislators tour Habitat's 'green' LEED Homes

 

We're on Facebook! Connect with us and become a fan! You can also view great pictures of LEED-certified Homes in Michigan!

For more information, contact  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , LEED for Homes Circle Group Facilitators.




Coming soon to a lumberyard or library near you!

Are you interested in learning more about LEED for Homes? Curious about what you need to do to certify your home? Are you a builder looking to set your company apart and build a superior project for your clients?

The LEED for Homes Interest Circle will be offering presentations at local libraries and lumberyards this spring to help demystify the LEED for Homes process. Check back for dates and places to be announced soon.