LEED for Homes Frequently Asked Questions

LEED for Homes Costs

What is the cost/fee for doing LEED?
There is an initial application fee of $750, which is applied to your project. Total fees charged by Davis Energy Group are based on square footage, number of units and number of floorplans. They do not include consulting for your project. Please for additional information. We accept credit cards. DEG fees do not include the cost for the USGBC project registration, USGBC certification costs, Green Rater fees, or HERS fees.

What fees does USGBC charge?
USGBC charges fees for registration and certification of your project. For the current fees click here.

If my project is not accepted into the program or I can’t afford the fees, do I get my deposit back?
Projects that are not accepted into the program will have their check returned to them.

Are there any rebates/incentives available for building a LEED Home?
USGBC has a list of links for rebates and incentives, including Energy Star, at Incentives at Green Home Guide. You can also check your local government, water and utilities for additional incentives.

LEED for Homes Green Raters

What is a Green Rater? What do they do?
Green Raters are independent contractors hired directly by the builder/owner of the project. They work with the builder to get the home LEED certified. Green Raters are responsible for submitting the documentation needed for LEED certification, completing the LEED visual verifications, scheduling the HERS inspections, and working with the project team throughout the LEED process. Your Green Rater is your primary contact throughout the project. DEG will provide you a list of qualified Green Raters in your area with the application package.

I live in Southern California; do I have to use a Green Rater from Davis?
We have many Green Raters throughout California and Nevada. Your application package will include a list of qualified Green Raters in your area.

I would like to work as a Green Rater in the LEED program. What do I need to do?
Please visit the Green Building Certification Institute website for information on becoming an accredited Green Rater for this program. Once you receive your USGBC accreditation, please for an application to become a DEG Approved Green Rater.

I am a LEED AP, does my project need to work through a Provider for LEED certification?
Yes, all LEED for Homes projects need to work through a Provider. You must be a LEED AP HOMES to receive the AP credit on a project.