LEED v5 Points Checklist Guide

Understanding the LEED Points Checklist

The LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) points checklist is a critical tool for project teams aiming to achieve sustainability certifications. It outlines the specific requirements and thresholds necessary to earn points across various categories, including location and transportation. This guide focuses on LEED v5, providing insights into how to maximize points in these areas.

Location and Transportation Credits

LEED v5 emphasizes the importance of sustainable location and transportation strategies. Here’s a breakdown of key credits and how to achieve them:

Public Transit Service (LTc1)

To earn points under this credit, the project must be located in a place with adequate public transit service. The minimum daily weekday and weekend trips required are outlined in Table 3:

Weekday Trips	Weekend Trips	Points
72	30	2
132	78	3
160	120	4
360	216	5

Ensure your project site meets these trip requirements to secure the corresponding points.

Walkable Location (LTc2)

This credit rewards projects located in walkable areas with access to essential services. Points are awarded based on the Walk Score and the number of nearby uses within a 0.25-mile radius:

Walk Score	Number of Uses	Points
60–69	4–7	1
70–79	8–10	2
80 or more	≥ 11	3

Note the restrictions on counting uses and ensure diversity across categories to maximize points.

Active Travel Facilities (LTc3)

Projects can earn points by providing facilities that encourage active travel like biking. There are two paths to achieve this:

• Base Building Certified with LEED BD+C: Projects can earn points if the base building is certified under LEED v4 or v4.1 with the Bicycle Facilities credit, or under LEED v5 with the Transportation Demand Management credit.
• Active Travel Facilities in Base Building: Projects can also meet the requirements through the presence of bicycle networks and storage facilities within specified distances.

Compliant Base Building (LTc4)

To earn this point, the project must be located in a building that offers a bicycle network and storage facilities within 600 feet (180 meters) of a main entrance. The network must span at least 3 miles (4,800 meters) and include bike paths, lanes, or multi-use trails.

Practical Guidance

From our experience at ISG, we recommend conducting thorough site assessments early in the planning phase to identify opportunities for maximizing points. Engaging with local authorities and transportation planners can also provide valuable insights into potential improvements and partnerships that can enhance your project's sustainability credentials.

LEED Platinum Requirements

To achieve LEED Platinum certification, projects must earn a minimum of 80 points and meet specific decarbonization requirements in designated credits. This includes electrification, enhanced energy efficiency, renewable energy, and reducing embodied carbon.

How ISG Can Help

At ISG, we offer comprehensive support to navigate the complexities of LEED certification. Our team of experts can assist with strategic planning, documentation, and implementation to ensure your project meets and exceeds LEED v5 requirements efficiently and effectively.