The Building Research Establishment Assessment Method (BREEAM) is the leading environmental method used to measure a building’s environmental performance. The principles relate to UK Building Regulations and are relevant to all commercial, industrial, retail and residential buildings.
Installing more sustainable energy measures in a building is a key factor in reducing carbon emissions; businesses can also benefit by reducing soaring energy prices, the cost of utilities and waste, while in turn improving profitability.
The BREEAM In Use scheme helps building and facilities managers by detailing ways to make their building comply with environmental legislation and provides a certificate of sustainability.
The scheme assesses the performance of the building’s construction and measures the energy it consumes and the environmental impacts of carbon and waste generation.
There are different stages of BREEAM assessment with each stage having an individual fee attached which relates to the number of buildings being assessed. There are on-going annual renewal or reassessment fees where a building’s rating is to be updated because of improvements made.
The first stage of the assessment process begins with online registration; this involves a simple analysis questionnaire being completed. It is possible to register more than one building so that a portfolio of assets can be assessed.
The submission is reviewed by a qualified BREEAM assessor to give an ‘un-verified pre-assessment’ report before the building undergoes an on-site inspection.
The initial results will document the impact of the buildings existing systems and initiatives, as well as the potential effects of proposed upgrades and give a basis for the next stage.
BREEAM assessors can give support and advice to help with the pre-assessment process and once the on-site audit is complete and certification finalised, the auditor can offer consultancy services to help make further improvements. Overall the process will provide a clear outline to improve sustainability.
