LEED, DGNB and EDGE Green Building Certification

How does the LEED project process work?

The LEED certification process varies depending on the project type (new construction, fit-out, or operation of an existing building), but the professional logic is the same in all cases: strategic goal setting → credit strategy → documentation → certification.

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1. Project initiation and registration

• Registration of the project in the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) system

• Selection of the appropriate LEED certification pathway:

  • LEED BD+C – New construction and major renovations

  • LEED ID+C – Interior design and fit-out

  • LEED O+M – Operation and maintenance of existing buildings

• Definition of a certification strategy aligned with the project life cycle and business objectives

2. Strategic preparation and target setting

• Definition of sustainability, energy, water, and carbon goals

• For new buildings: integrated design approach and early-stage coordination with the design team

• For existing buildings (O+M): review of operational practices, consumption data, and internal policies

• Selection of a target certification level aligned with LEED v5 requirements and ESG expectations

3. Credit strategy and Gap analysis (Preliminary Assessment)

• Preparation of a detailed Gap analysis / compliance assessment

• Identification of:

  • the realistically achievable LEED certification level,

  • critical credits,

  • required technical, design, or operational interventions

• For existing buildings: strong focus on energy and water consumption data, operational processes, and indoor environmental quality

4. Implementation and documentation

For new buildings / fit-out projects:

• Preparation of design documentation, calculations, and specifications

• Submission of LEED Design Review documentation

For existing buildings (LEED O+M):

• Collection of operational data (energy, water, waste)

• Development or improvement of policies, procedures, and monitoring systems

• Compilation of full LEED O+M documentation

• Continuous professional support and coordination with the project team

5. Construction / operational compliance

• For new construction: monitoring compliance during construction

• For existing buildings: aligning daily operations with LEED requirements

• Preparation of required evidence, declarations, and reports

6. Final review and certification

• Review of the submitted documentation by the USGBC

• Approval of scores and certification level

• Award of the final LEED certificate
  (Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum)

Important distinction: LEED O+M certification

LEED Operations & Maintenance certification:

• assesses the actual operation and performance of an existing building,

• must be renewed periodically (typically every 3–5 years),

• relies heavily on operational data, monitoring, and internal processes.

In this area, Greenbors not only manages certification, but also actively supports operational-level improvements.

Greenbors LEED services

• LEED preliminary and final certification
  (Design + Construction / Operations)

• Design and construction consultancy

• Sustainability and technical studies

• LCA (Life Cycle Assessment), LCC (Life Cycle Costing), and energy analyses

• Engagement and coordination of external experts

• Full project management throughout the LEED process