Reference
Pillars of green building
5 pillars used as the categorization for requirements and badges.
Pillar 1
Energy & Climate Resilience
Reduce a home's energy use, electrify its mechanical systems, and harden it against future climate risks. Covers Home Energy Score, heating/cooling, water heating, cooking, ventilation, and air-leakage targets.
Pillar 2
Indoor Air Quality & Health
Keep occupants safe from combustion gases, radon, mold, and indoor pollutants. Covers gas/CO testing, MERV filtration, radon mitigation, kitchen/bath exhaust, and humidity control.
Pillar 3
Water Efficiency & Management
Cut indoor and outdoor water use without sacrificing function. Covers fixture flow rates, leak prevention, plumbing pressure testing, and (at Platinum) real-time leak detection.
Pillar 4
Moisture & Structural Integrity
Keep water out of the building envelope and shed it correctly at the site. Covers moisture assessments, gutter and grading systems, certified wet-area assemblies, and duct quality.
Pillar 5
Materials & Environmental Impact
Lower the embodied-carbon footprint of new construction, avoid hazardous legacy materials, and source certified wood and floor finishes.