Tuesday, April 30, 2019

How To Become A LEED Commissioning Agent

By Sandra Barnes


While there have always been building inspection processes for buildings and equipment, there is now new software which can help assure buildings and equipment run efficiently. For, some 15 years back, the U. S. Green Building Council (USGBC) created LEED commissioning software which provides standards to be used in the construction and building industry. Using a holistic approach, these standards work to create quality indoor air, resources and materials and water efficiency with these and other standards in mind.

Later, after recognizing the effectiveness, savings and other benefits of green building, the USGB included the commission of buildings and equipment as part of the certification process. In order to achieve this goal, a new position was developed known as a commissioning agent.

Agents must have the knowledge of green practices and procedures to assure projects adhere to LEED certification requirements. In the process, buildings and equipment can earn points toward a higher rating based on a number of factors. For example, commissioning and points are provided for green additions and renovations, implementation, analysis, enhanced and retro projects.

While often related to energy savings, there are other aspects of projects which can also be commissioned. A new rule related to LEED requirements also requires all agents be involved in a project before the end of the development phase. For, new rules also require that the design team, builders and associated partners work together as early in the process as possible.

Because LEED designers have recognized the importance of commissioning in the building and construction industry, there is a growing market for these services. As such, it is important that all agents have a clear understanding of LEED, Version 4 and associated standards to better provide the service which clients are expecting. For, becoming knowledgeable with the software requirements and standards is essential for agents to become successful in this area.

Version 4 of LEED, includes updates to technological aspects and system requirements. For example, the term new building and construction now applies to confirmation that building plans and systems meet owners' requirements and standards during installation. Whereas, buildings, equipment and systems must operate as expected by the owner before becoming certified or commissioned.

Individuals desiring to become certified as an agent or designer must go through several steps. These include going to GBCI.org and creating a new account, logging into the system and clicking on My Credentials and applying for the exam. Once accepted, individuals can then log onto the My Credentials section and register for the exam. After which, individuals will then go to Prometric's website, schedule the exam, study and pass the test.

When it comes to the exam, members often pay $200 and non-members $250. Whereas, students with an official student ID can now take the exam for a reduced price of $100. The reduction in price is largely based on student status. Although, with the growing field of certification and commissioning of green building, construction and other projects, the organization has also lowered the price in hopes of acquiring new agents whom can provide a long term commitment.




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