Joining the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) offers numerous benefits, including reduced LEED exam and certification fees. This article breaks down LEED registration and certification costs, highlighting the financial advantages of USGBC membership.
Registration fees are due upfront and based on a published fee schedule. LEED certification fees depend on the rating system and project size, calculated and paid when the project team submits documentation for review on LEED Online. This fee covers both the preliminary and final reviews for both standard and split review paths.
LEED fees include access to the Arc platform, support from experienced LEED Coaches, and award-winning customer service. USGBC customer service has garnered 13 awards since 2013, demonstrating dedication and expertise in member support.
Payment policies are outlined in the LEED Certification Guide or within the payment help section of the USGBC website. USGBC members may qualify for discounted pricing based on the member type of the project owner or administrator.
For projects outside the United States, pricing may vary. For instance, Canadian project pricing can be found on cagbc.org. Projects in Europe and Turkey will be invoiced in EUR based on an exchange rate of 1 USD = 0.88 EUR.
LEED registration and certification fees are categorized by building type and USGBC membership level. Holding a Silver, Gold, or Platinum USGBC membership significantly reduces registration and certification costs.
For example, the Building Design and Construction certification registration fee for Silver, Gold, and Platinum members is $1,350, while the fee for organizational or non-members is $1,700.
Similarly, for LEED v4.1 Operations and Maintenance certification, USGBC members receive discounted pricing. Certification fees are calculated based on the project’s gross floor area, excluding parking areas.
USGBC offers various certification programs, including LEED Zero, LEED for Homes, and LEED for Cities and Communities, each with its own fee schedule. Consult the detailed fee schedule on the USGBC website for precise cost information.
For large-scale projects, the Volume or Campus Certification program can reduce costs. This program allows multiple projects to be certified simultaneously at a discounted rate.
USGBC membership not only reduces LEED exam and certification fees but also unlocks access to valuable resources, tools, and a network of green building experts. It’s a worthwhile investment for individuals and organizations committed to sustainable building practices.
