UBC Building Certification Requirements
Since 2008 the BC government has required that all public-sector buildings, newly constructed or undergoing major renovation, achieve LEED Gold or equivalent certification. UBC requires all Tier 1 and Tier 3A projects to be LEED Gold certified using the most suitable LEED rating system.
Alternative certifications may be considered where appropriate (for example certification through the Zero Carbon Building Standard, Passive House or Living Building Challenge). In all cases alternative certifications should be pre-approved.
Download UBC LEED 4.0 Implementation Guide
Download UBC LEED 4.1 Implementation Guide
Download UBC LEED 4.1 UBC Vancouver Checklist
Download UBC LEED Variance Template
UBC LEED Requirements
UBC requires that LEED Gold certification for new construction and major renovation projects using mandatory credits identified in the UBC LEED Implementation Guide.
For a list of our LEED certified buildings, visit the Green Building Directory.
LEED Implementation Guides
UBC has developed LEED Implementation Guides for both LEED v4.0 and LEED v4.1. The purpose of the Implementation Guides are to facilitate an efficient LEED process for UBC projects and align it directly with UBC policy and aspirational goals. The Guides identify compliance paths, resources, and credits that are part of UBC’s priorities, for the most effective outcomes at both the Vancouver and Okanagan campuses. The Guides identify mandatory and priority credits and points for UBC projects. Mandatory credits must be achieved by all UBC projects, and priority credits or points are strongly encouraged to be pursued.
The current version of LEED is v4.0, but credits may be optionally selected from LEED v4.1. LEED v 4.1 is expected to become the current version in 2022.
About LEED
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a third-party certification program and an internationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.
The goal of LEED is to create better buildings that:
- Reduce contribution to global climate change
- Enhance individual human health
- Protect and restore water resources
- Protect and enhance biodiversity and ecosystem services
- Promote sustainable and regenerative material cycles
- Enhance community quality of life
LEED certification is based on total points achieved in eight categories, following an independent review. Four levels of certification can be granted: Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum.
About LEED section copy courtesy of the Canadian Green Building Council.