Updated May-2025 Test Engine or PDF for the USGBC LEED-AP-BD-C test to help you quickly prepare for the USGBC exam!
Full LEED-AP-BD-C Practice Test and 305 unique questions with explanations waiting just for you, get it now!
NEW QUESTION # 60
In Sustainable Sites Credit, Light Pollution Reduction, which factor is included in the lamp lumen uplight calculation?
- A. Total fixture lumens below 90 degrees
- B. Site area of the project
- C. Quantity of installed luminaires
- D. Total fixture power
Answer: A
Explanation:
This factor is included in the lamp lumen uplight calculation, because it represents the amount of light that is emitted downward by the fixture, which does not contribute to light pollution1. The lamp lumen uplight calculation is used to determine the percentage of total luminaire lumens emitted above horizontal, which must not exceed the maximum allowed values for each lighting zone2.
References: = [LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide], SSc6 step by step instructions - BuildingGreen.
NEW QUESTION # 61
Which site preparation and construction method contributes to earning the Materials and Resources Credit, Construction and Demolition Waste Management?
- A. Ensure reduction of pollution from construction activities by using airborne dust generation capture systems
- B. Salvage and recycle 50% of the existing materials (based on volume) generated during site demolition for three material streams
- C. Implement in situ soil remediation and post removal of the existing concrete pavement
- D. Reuse excavated soil and land-clearing debris
Answer: B
Explanation:
The Materials and Resources Credit, Construction and Demolition Waste Management aims to reduce the amount of construction and demolition waste disposed of in landfills and incineration facilities by recovering, reusing, and recycling materials. According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, one of the options to achieve this credit is to divert at least 50% of the total construction and demolition material from disposal and recycle or salvage at least three material streams1. Therefore, salvaging and recycling 50% of the existing materials (based on volume) generated during site demolition for three material streams would contribute to earning this credit. The other options are not related to this credit, but to other credits or prerequisites, such as Sustainable Sites Prerequisite: Construction Activity Pollution Prevention1, Materials and Resources Prerequisite: Storage and Collection of Recyclables1, and Materials and Resources Credit: Building Product Disclosure and Optimization - Sourcing of Raw Materials1.
Reference:
* LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Materials and Resources Credit: Construction and Demolition Waste Management, page 5481
* LEED v4 Construction and Demolition Waste
NEW QUESTION # 62
A tenant of a new office building will require 100 workstations per floor. Each floor will have two bathroom facilities and one conference room. How many lighting control devices with at least three lighting levels per floor are required to comply with Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Interior Lighting, Option 1. Lighting Control?
- A. 100 lighting control devices
- B. 93 lighting control devices
- C. 91 lighting control devices
- D. 103 lighting control devices
Answer: B
Explanation:
Explanation
To comply with Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Interior Lighting, Option 1. Lighting Control, the tenant of a new office building will require with at least three lighting levels per floor.
This is because the credit requires that at least 90% of individual occupant spaces have lighting controls that enable occupants to adjust the lighting to suit their individual tasks and preferences1. The credit also requires that all shared multioccupant spaces have lighting controls that enable adjustments that meet the needs of the group1. According to the LEED BD+C Reference Guide, an individual occupant space is defined as an enclosed space or an open space that is occupied by one person and is at least 50 square feet (4.6 square meters) in area1. A shared multioccupant space is defined as an enclosed or open space that is occupied by more than one person and is at least 100 square feet (9.3 square meters) in area1.
Based on the given information, each workstation can be considered as an individual occupant space, and each bathroom facility and conference room can be considered as a shared multioccupant space. Therefore, the number of lighting control devices per floor can be calculated as follows:
For the 100 workstations, 90% of them need lighting controls, which is 90 workstations. Each workstation needs one lighting control device, so the total number of lighting control devices for the workstations is 90.
For the two bathroom facilities, each facility needs one lighting control device, so the total number of lighting control devices for the bathroom facilities is 2.
For the one conference room, one lighting control device is needed, so the total number of lighting control devices for the conference room is 1.
The total number of lighting control devices per floor is then 90 + 2 + 1 = 93.
References: Interior lighting
NEW QUESTION # 63
In a large industrial or commercial building, which energy end uses are classified as systems composed of discrete pieces of equipment that can be metered together for the purposes of Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Advanced Energy Metering?
- A. Electrical lighting system during peak use hours
- B. Condenser water system with a cooling tower and condenser water pumps
- C. HVAC air system for air conditioning
- D. Water flow system used for public faucets and toilets
Answer: B
Explanation:
Explanation
A condenser water system with a cooling tower and condenser water pumps is classified as a system composed of discrete pieces of equipment that can be metered together for the purposes of Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Advanced Energy Metering. This is because the condenser water system is a single energy end use that serves a specific function and can be isolated from other systems1. HVAC air system, electrical lighting system, and water flow system are not considered as single energy end uses, but rather as multiple energy end uses that serve different functions and cannot be easily isolated2.
References:
*LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 415
*Advanced Energy Metering, p. 2
NEW QUESTION # 64
For Location and Transportation Credit, Access to Quality Transit, a project team preparing timetables and service-level documentation must ensure the materials include
- A. confirmation that functional entries of the project are within 3/4 mi. (1.20 km) of the stop
- B. verification that a weighted daily average has been used for each qualifying route
- C. verification that a weighted building average has been used for each qualifying functional entry
- D. confirmation that each qualifying route features paired route service (service in opposite directions)
Answer: B
Explanation:
This option requires the project team to calculate the weighted daily average of the number of trips per day for each qualifying route, using the formula provided in the LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide. This option ensures that the transit service frequency is accurately represented and meets the minimum thresholds for weekday and weekend trips, as shown in Table 1 and Table 2 of the guide.
NEW QUESTION # 65
Landscape irrigation practices consume large quantities of potable water. By evaluating the project's outdoor water budget and irrigation water demand early in the design process in Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Outdoor Water Use Reduction project teams will be able to
- A. earn Water Efficiency Credit, Water Metering
- B. earn Sustainable Sites Credit, Rainwater Management
- C. estimate and optimize water use in landscape designs
- D. estimate and optimize water use in outdoor fountains and pools
Answer: C
Explanation:
The intent of the Water Efficiency Prerequisite, Outdoor Water Use Reduction is to reduce outdoor water consumption by either eliminating the need for irrigation or reducing the irrigation demand by at least 30% from the baseline. This prerequisite requires project teams to evaluate the project's outdoor water budget and irrigation water demand using the EPA WaterSense Water Budget Tool or a local equivalent. This will help project teams to estimate and optimize water use in landscape designs by selecting appropriate plant species and irrigation system efficiency.
References: = LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Outdoor Water Use Reduction Credits in LEED v4, Part Two: LEED v4 BD+C Outdoor Water Reduction and Related Credits
NEW QUESTION # 66
An owner has insisted on using a non-native or non-adapted plant species on both the vegetated roof and ground level. What Sustainable Sites credit will this decision impact the most?
- A. Site Assessment
- B. Heat Island Reduction
- C. Site Development-Protect or Restore Habita
- D. Light Pollution Reduction
Answer: C
Explanation:
Using a non-native or non-adapted plant species on both the vegetated roof and ground level will impact the Sustainable Sites credit Site Development-Protect or Restore Habitat the most. This credit requires that at least 20% of the site area (excluding building footprint) or 5% of the site area (including building footprint) must be vegetated with native or adapted plants. Non-native or non-adapted plants do not qualify for this credit and may also have negative impacts on the local ecosystem and biodiversity. The other credits are not directly affected by the choice of plant species, although they may have other requirements related to vegetation, such as shading, reflectance, or lighting.References: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Sustainable Sites Category, SSc Site Development-Protect or Restore Habitat, page 648.
NEW QUESTION # 67
Innovation credits for exemplary performance can be awarded for
- A. achieving double the credit requirements
- B. demonstrating significant environmental benefits
- C. achieving one pilot credit
- D. demonstrating a qualitative improvement in environmental performance
Answer: A
Explanation:
Explanation
Exemplary performance credits are one of the options to earn innovation points under the LEED v4.1 rating system. They are typically awarded for achieving double the credit requirements or the next incremental percentage threshold of an existing LEED v4.1 prerequisite or credit that allows exemplary performance. For example, to earn an exemplary performance point for the Energy and Atmosphere credit Optimize Energy Performance, the project must demonstrate a percentage improvement in the proposed building performance rating compared to the baseline building performance rating per ASHRAE 90.1-2010 by at least 12 percentage points for new construction, or by at least 16 percentage points for major renovations.
References: = NC-v4.1 INc1: Innovation | LEEDuser, Guide to Exemplary Performance Credits in LEED-NC v4 | LEEDuser
NEW QUESTION # 68
Which of the following acoustical units are used in Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Acoustic Performance to measure reverberation time?
- A. T60
- B. STC
- C. dBA
- D. Hz
Answer: A
Explanation:
Detailed
T60 is the unit used to measure reverberation time, which is the time it takes for sound to decay by 60 decibels in a space. This metric is critical for achieving the Acoustic Performance credit under LEED, as it ensures that spaces are designed to provide optimal acoustic environments that enhance occupant comfort and productivity.
NEW QUESTION # 69
Which of the following activities must be prohibited within a building as a prerequisite to LEED certification?
- A. Burning fossil fuels
- B. Manufacturing toxic chemicals
- C. Smoking tobacco products
- D. Preparing non-organic foods
Answer: C
Explanation:
Smoking tobacco products must be prohibited within a building as a prerequisite to LEED certification, according to the Indoor Environmental Quality Prerequisite, Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control1. This prerequisite aims to prevent or minimize exposure of building occupants, indoor surfaces, and ventilation air distribution systems to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), which is a known human carcinogen and a source of indoor air pollution2. The prerequisite requires the project to meet one of the following options:
* Option 1. No Smoking. Prohibit smoking in the building and within 25 feet (8 meters) of all entries, outdoor air intakes, and operable windows.
* Option 2. Smoking Areas. Designate smoking areas outside the building and at least 25 feet (8 meters) from all entries, outdoor air intakes, and operable windows. If smoking areas are enclosed, they must be negatively pressurized and vented directly to the outdoors. Prohibit smoking in all common areas of residential buildings and provide signage to indicate smoking and nonsmoking areas.
The other activities, such as burning fossil fuels, preparing non-organic foods, and manufacturing toxic chemicals, are not explicitly prohibited by any LEED prerequisites, although they may have negative impacts on the environment, health, and energy performance of the building.
References:
* LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4
* Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control | U.S. Green Building Council
* Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) - World Health Organization
* Environmental Tobacco Smoke - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics
NEW QUESTION # 70
During preliminary energy analysis, what energy reduction strategies can best help in reducing the energy load in the new building construction project?
- A. Massing and orientation
- B. Site conditions
- C. Green roof
- D. Programmatic and operational parameters
Answer: A
Explanation:
Explanation
During preliminary energy analysis, massing and orientation are energy reduction strategies that can best help in reducing the energy load in the new building construction project. Massing and orientation refer to the shape, size, and direction of the building, which affect the amount of solar heat gain, daylight, and natural ventilation that the building receives. By analyzing the massing and orientation of the building, the project team can optimize the design to minimize the heating, cooling, and lighting energy demand, and enhance the thermal comfort and indoor environmental quality of the building. The LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction states that "the project team should use the results of the analysis to inform the owner's project requirements, basis of design, and design documents"1. The other options, such as green roof, site conditions, and programmatic and operational parameters, are not energy reduction strategies, but factors that influence the energy performance and demand of the building.
References:
*LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Integrative Process Credit: Integrative Process, page 811
*Integrative Process Worksheet2
NEW QUESTION # 71
The intent of the Sustainable Sites Prerequisite, Construction Activity Pollution Prevention is to £
- A. control erosion, noxious odors and landfill waste
- B. control erosion, waterway sedimentation and noxious odors
- C. control erosion, waterway sedimentation and airborne dust
- D. control erosion, landfill waste and excessive noise
Answer: C
Explanation:
The intent of the Sustainable Sites Prerequisite. Construction Activity Pollution Prevention is to reduce pollution from construction activities by controlling soil erosion, waterway sedimentation and airborne dust generation. The LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction states that "construction activities can have significant negative impacts on the environment, both at the project site and beyond. Erosion and sedimentation can degrade water quality, damage aquatic habitats, and increase flooding risks. Airborne dust can affect air quality, human health, and visibility. Construction vehicles and equipment can generate noise, traffic, and greenhouse gas emissions"1. The project team must implement an erosion and sedimentation control (ESC) plan that conforms to the 2012 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Construction General Permit or local equivalent, whichever is more stringent. The ESC plan must cover all construction activity on the project site, including clearing, grading, excavating, and demolition.
Reference:
LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, Sustainable Sites Prerequisite: Construction Activity Pollution Prevention, page 1151 Construction activity pollution prevention | U.S. Green Building Council
NEW QUESTION # 72
Discussing the project goals to help identify the credits and options that the team should attempt is an example of
- A. developing the LEED Scorecard
- B. implementing the Commissioning (Cx) Plan
- C. documenting LEED credits
- D. creating the Basis of Design (BOD)
Answer: A
Explanation:
Discussing the project goals to help identify the credits and options that the team should attempt is an example of developing the LEED Scorecard. The LEED Scorecard is a tool that shows the potential points that a project can achieve under each credit category of the LEED rating system1. Developing the LEED Scorecard involves selecting the most appropriate credits and options based on the project's goals, location, budget, and design2. The scorecard helps the project team track their progress and prioritize their actions throughout the design and construction process1. References:
* LEED scorecard | U.S. Green Building Council
* LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide - U.S. Green Building Council
NEW QUESTION # 73
Which views would qualify as a quality view for Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Quality Views?
- A. C, D, E
- B. B, C, D
- C. A, B, D
- D. A, B, C
Answer: A
Explanation:
Quality views are defined in LEED as those which consist of multiple elements of nature, weather, or movement that allow for a connection beyond the interior space. Views that allow a clear line of sight to the exterior via vision glazing, with a view factor of 3 or greater, qualify for this credit. Fixed glazing in common spaces can also contribute to this credit.
References: This information is a synthesis based on the criteria for 'Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Quality Views' from the LEED BD+C Reference Guide available on the USGBC website. For a detailed explanation, please refer to the specific credit requirements in the LEED BD+C Reference Guide.
NEW QUESTION # 74
A project's total site area is 240,000 ft2 (22 297 m2) and the building footprint is 40,000 ft2 (3 716 m2). How much outdoor space and vegetated space must it provide to earn Sustainable Sites Credit, Open Space?
- A. 72,000 ft2 (6 689 m2) of outdoor space of which 60,000 ft2 (5 574 m2) must be vegetated
- B. 60,000 ft2 (5 574 m2) of outdoor space of which 15,000 ft2 (1 394 m2) must be vegetated
- C. 60,000 ft2 (5 574 m2) of outdoor space of which 50,000 ft2 (4 645 m2) must be vegetated
- D. 72,000 ft2 (6 689 m2) of outdoor space of which 18,000 ft2 (1 672 m2) must be vegetated
Answer: D
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, the project must provide outdoor space that is at least 30% of the total site area (including the building footprint), of which at least 25% must be vegetated. In this case, the project must provide 0.3 x 240,000 ft2 = 72,000 ft2 (6 689 m2) of outdoor space, of which 0.25 x 72,000 ft2 = 18,000 ft2 (1 672 m2) must be vegetated. Therefore, option C is the correct answer. References: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, p. 5411
NEW QUESTION # 75
Who must be a member of the integrated project team for the Integrative Process Prerequisite, Integrative Project Planning and Design?
- A. The owner or an owner's representative
- B. The project's mechanical engineer
- C. A LEED AP
- D. The general contractor
Answer: A
Explanation:
According to the LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, the owner or an owner's representative must be a member of the integrated project team for the Integrative Process Prerequisite, Integrative Project Planning and Design. The owner or an owner's representative is responsible for establishing the project's vision, goals, budget, and schedule, as well as defining the owner's project requirements (OPR) and participating in the design charrettes and reviews1. The owner or an owner's representative also plays a key role in ensuring the continuity and alignment of the project's performance and environmental objectives throughout all phases of the project1.
The other choices are not mandatory members of the integrated project team, although they may be involved in the integrative process depending on the project's scope and needs. The general contractor is typically hired after the design phase and may not be involved in the predesign and schematic design analyses required by the prerequisite1. A LEED AP is a professional who has demonstrated knowledge and experience in applying the LEED rating system, but is not required to be part of the integrated project team, although it is recommended and rewarded by the LEED credit, Integrative Process1. The project's mechanical engineer is one of the possible design consultants who may contribute to the integrative process, especially for the energy-related systems analysis, but is not required to be part of the integrated project team1.
NEW QUESTION # 76
What is a viable strategy for optimizing open space under Sustainable Sites Credit, Open Space? U
- A. Minimize the floor-area ratio (FAR) and accessibility for open space
- B. Design a parking and road footprint layout that is not near open land
- C. Coordinate open space features during the construction phase
- D. Coordinate open space features early during the site planning phase
Answer: D
Explanation:
Coordinating open space features early during the site planning phase is a viable strategy for optimizing open space under Sustainable Sites Credit, Open Space. This can help to preserve natural habitats, reduce heat island effects, and enhance human health and well-being. The credit requires that the project provide outdoor space that is at least 30% of the total site area, and that at least 25% of that outdoor space meets certain criteria for vegetated, pervious, or shaded areas. Reference:
LEED credit library: This is the USGBC's comprehensive listing of all the LEED credits available in pursuing certification for your project. The credit library contains the requirements and guidance for each credit, as well as the web-based reference guide for the Building Design and Construction rating system.
Open Space: This is the specific credit page for the Open Space credit under the Sustainable Sites category. It provides the intent, requirements, and strategies for achieving the credit, as well as the number of points available and the applicable project types.
Step by Step Approach to Comply with the Open Space Credit in LEED v4: This is a blog post that explains the steps and calculations involved in complying with the Open Space credit. It also provides some examples and tips for optimizing open space design.
NEW QUESTION # 77
......
Full LEED-AP-BD-C Practice Test and 305 unique questions with explanations waiting just for you, get it now: https://examcollection.actualcollection.com/LEED-AP-BD-C-exam-questions.html