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Green Buildings

What is BREEAM?

BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is a leading global system for rating the sustainability of buildings and communities. It assesses and certifies the environmental performance of new and existing developments across categories like energy, water, materials, health and wellbeing, and pollution. BREEAM provides a framework for designing and building sustainably and gives projects a rating from "Pass" to "Outstanding". 

 

How BREEAM works

  • Rating system: Projects are given a BREEAM rating based on their score, with benchmarks such as "Pass" (at least 30% score) to "Outstanding" (over 85%).

  • Lifecycle application: BREEAM can be used for new construction, refurbishment and fit-out projects, and even entire communities and infrastructure projects. 

  • Assessment categories: A building's sustainability is evaluated against credits awarded in weighted categories, which can include energy, health & wellbeing, materials, management, land use & ecology, pollution, transport, waste, and water.

  • Third-party certification: The assessment is carried out by a certified assessor and validated through third-party certification.

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Why BREEAM is important

  • Sets best practice: It sets the standard for sustainable design, construction, and operation.

  • Drives value: It can lead to better-performing assets, increased value, and can help mitigate risk.

  • Measures impact: It provides a credible, scientific framework to ensure projects deliver positive environmental and social impact. 

 

BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is the world's leading and longest-established sustainability assessment, rating, and certification method for buildings and infrastructure projects. Launched in 1990 by the UK-based Building Research Establishment (BRE), it sets the standard for best practice in sustainable design, construction, and operation of the built environment. 

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Purpose and Scope​

The primary purpose of BREEAM is to reduce the negative environmental impacts of construction and development and to inspire developers to improve, innovate, and make effective use of resources. It provides a holistic framework to assess, benchmark, and validate the sustainable performance of assets across their entire lifecycle: 

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  • New Construction: For newly built non-domestic assets.

  • Refurbishment and Fit-Out: For renovation and interior modification projects.

  • In-Use: For existing, operational buildings to help managers reduce running costs and improve environmental performance.

  • Communities: For master planning new communities and regeneration projects.

  • Infrastructure: For civil engineering and public realm works. 

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Assessment Categories

A BREEAM assessment evaluates a project's performance across several key sustainability categories, awarding credits in each area: 

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  • Management: Incorporating sustainable practices throughout the project lifecycle.

  • Health and Wellbeing: Ensuring a healthy and comfortable internal environment for occupants.

  • Energy: Focusing on energy efficiency and reduction of carbon emissions.

  • Transport: Promoting sustainable means of transportation and accessibility.

  • Water: Encouraging efficient use and management of water resources.

  • Materials: Assessing the responsible sourcing and lifecycle impacts of materials.

  • Waste: Emphasizing waste reduction, management, and recycling strategies.

  • Land Use and Ecology: Protecting and enhancing the ecological value of the site.

  • Pollution: Minimizing a project's impact on the surrounding environment (noise, air, light, water).

  • Innovation: Recognizing strategies that go beyond standard requirements. 

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Rating System

Projects are assessed by independent, licensed BREEAM assessors and certified by BRE Global Ltd.

Based on the total score achieved, a final performance rating is awarded on a scale: 

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Rating Score Range

Unclassified (< 30%)

Pass (>30%)

Good (>45%)

Very Good (>55%)

Excellent (>70%)

Outstanding ( 85%)

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Benefits​

BREEAM certification provides numerous benefits, including: 

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  • Increased Asset Value: Certified buildings often have higher rental values and are easier to sell.

  • Reduced Operational Costs: Energy and water efficient measures lead to lower utility bills.

  • Health and Wellbeing: Creates healthier environments that enhance the wellbeing and productivity of occupants.

  • Risk Mitigation: Helps limit investor and developer risk by building for future climate challenges and regulations.

  • Market Recognition: Provides an internationally recognized, third-party verified badge of assurance for sustainability performance. 

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While voluntary, BREEAM certification is often a requirement by local planning authorities or clients for specific types of developments. 

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Get in Touch for BREEAM-Compliant Solutions

Looking to achieve BREEAM credits or improve water efficiency in your building project? BTS Leak Detection provides expert services that support sustainable design and compliance.

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Call us today on 01455 332000 to speak with a BREEAM-focused leak detection specialist.

Email us for a free consultation or quote on solutions that help meet your sustainability goals.

Schedule a service visit to ensure your system operates efficiently and aligns with BREEAM standards.

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Partner with BTS Leak Detection to protect your building, conserve resources, and stay ahead on compliance.

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