BREEAM USA In-Use: Residential Plus
[edit] Introduction
On 23 July 2020, BREEAM USA In-Use: Residential Plus was launched. This component of BREEAM USA In-Use is designed specifically for multifamily assets pursuing financial incentives that are linked to minimum energy performance requirements.
Certification under the Residential Plus programme requires that a multifamily asset achieves a 20% or greater reduction in energy use over a fixed baseline and also achieves a score of 55% or better along with other minimum standards. The programme stands as part of the broader BREEAM USA In-Use program, with certification offered for commercial and residential properties not specifically pursuing financial incentives.
[edit] Expansion highlights
Residential Plus builds on BREEAM USA In-Use to Version 6, which saw the expansion of the programme to include residential as well as commercial assets. BREEAM USA In-Use Version 6 includes an increased focus on climate change adaptation and mitigation as well as a resilience category. This category integrates resilience with environmental performance and occupant health and wellbeing at the asset level, meaning this update will consider past environmental performance and encourage the protection of the asset’s environmental and financial performance in the future.
Similarly, Version 6 has woven social impact into the standard, reflecting the social and economic benefits of meeting environmental objectives. This encourages asset resilience and overall sustainability that are deeply connected to the resilience and sustainability of the communities in which they are located, including direct references to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. BREEAM is the first rating system to incorporate these elements, alongside Environmental Performance, into a single platform with a focus on existing buildings.
Shamir Ghumra, BREEAM Director, said: “The launch of the Residential Plus programme gives financiers, homeowners and occupants even more confidence in the energy performance of their properties. We have engaged with the market to deliver something that is going to be a significant game changer for BREEAM in the USA and deliver sustainable value for all.”
Information about the Residential Plus programme and the associated technical standards are available to download at no cost from www.breeam.com/usa.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.