LEED-AP-Homes LEED AP Homes (Residential) Exam Questions and Answers

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)addresses shower compartments in theWater Efficiency (WE) Credit: Indoor Water Use, where the size and number of showerheads impact water use calculations.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

WE Credit: Indoor Water Use (1–6 points)

A shower compartment is defined as an enclosed area with a floor area of no more than 2,500 in² (1.6 m²), where all fixtures (e.g., multiple showerheads) count as a single fixture for water use calculations. Compartments larger than 2,500 in² are considered multiple compartments, and multiple showerheads in such cases are not allowed for LEED compliance to ensure water efficiency.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Water Efficiency Credit: Indoor Water Use, p. 96.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

WE Credit: Indoor Water Use

For shower compartments exceeding 2,500 in² (1.6 m²), multiple showerheads are not permitted to maintain water efficiency goals. Each compartment must be treated separately if applicable, but large compartments cannot have multiple heads.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The shower compartment is 3,750 in² (2.4 m²), exceeding the 2,500 in² limit. Therefore,multiple showerheads are not allowed(Option C), as LEED restricts multiple heads in oversized compartments to ensure water efficiency.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includesRegional Priority (RP) Credits, which provide bonus points for addressing location-specific environmental priorities. A project can pursue multiple RP credits based on its geographic location.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

Regional Priority Credits (1–4 points)

A LEED for Homes v4 project can pursue up to four Regional Priority Credits, which are selected based on the project’s location and the environmental priorities identified for that region. Each RP credit awards one bonus point for achieving a designated existing credit that addresses regional environmental concerns.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Regional Priority Credits, p. 190.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

Regional Priority Credits

Projects can earn up to four bonus points by achieving Regional Priority Credits, which are assigned based on the project’s ZIP code or region to address local environmental priorities.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isfour(Option D), as a LEED for Homes v4 project can pursue up to four Regional Priority Credits.

Why not the other options?

A. One: This underestimates the number of RP credits available.

B. Two: This is also too low, as up to four credits can be pursued.

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theIntegrative Process (IP) Credit: Integrative Process, Option 2: Design Charrette, which requires a collaborative meeting early in the design process to integrate green strategies.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

IP Credit: Integrative Process, Option 2: Design Charrette (1 point)

Conduct a design charrette no later than the schematic design phase to ensure early integration of green strategies across all project aspects, including energy, water, and materials.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Integrative Process Credit: Integrative Process, p. 45.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

IP Credit: Integrative Process, Option 2: Design Charrette

The charrette must occur no later than the schematic design phase to effectively influence the project’s sustainability goals and design decisions.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isSchematic Design(Option B), as the charrette must occur by this phase to ensure early integration of sustainable strategies.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theEnergy and Atmosphere (EA) Credit: Space Heating and Cooling Equipment, which rewards the use of high-efficiency HVAC equipment that exceeds baseline standards.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

EA Credit: Space Heating and Cooling Equipment (1–4 points)

Install HVAC equipment that meets or exceeds the efficiency requirements of the ENERGY STAR for Homes program, Prescriptive Path, which specifies minimum efficiency ratings (e.g., SEER, AFUE) for heating and cooling systems.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Energy and Atmosphere Credit: Space Heating and Cooling Equipment, p. 128.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

EA Credit: Space Heating and Cooling Equipment

HVAC equipment must exceed the efficiency standards set by ENERGY STAR for Homes, Prescriptive Path, to earn points for improved energy performance.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isENERGY STAR for Homes, Prescriptive Path(Option A), as this is the benchmark for high-efficiency HVAC equipment in this credit.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theEnergy and Atmosphere (EA) Credit: Efficient Hot Water Distribution System, Option 3: Pipe Insulation, which awards points for insulating hot water pipes to reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

EA Credit: Efficient Hot Water Distribution System, Option 3: Pipe Insulation (1 point)

Insulate all hot water piping with a minimum insulation value of R-4 to reduce heat loss and improve the efficiency of the hot water distribution system.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Energy and Atmosphere Credit: Efficient Hot Water Distribution System, p. 133.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

EA Credit: Efficient Hot Water Distribution System, Option 3: Pipe Insulation

Hot water pipes must be insulated to at least R-4 to qualify for the credit, minimizing energy losses during water distribution.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isR-4(Option C), as this is the minimum insulation value required for hot water piping to earn the credit.

Why not the other options?

A. R-2: This is below the required insulation value for the credit.

B. R-3: This is also below the required R-4 value.

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)addresses window performance in theEnergy and Atmosphere (EA) Credit: Windows, where a lower U-factor (thermal transmittance) improves energy efficiency by reducing heat loss or gain.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

EA Credit: Windows (1–3 points)

Use windows with a lower U-factor to reduce energy use by minimizing heat transfer through the glazing, improving the home’s thermal performance and reducing heating and cooling loads.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Energy and Atmosphere Credit: Windows, p. 122.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

EA Credit: Windows

A lower window U-factor reduces energy use by decreasing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, contributing to overall energy efficiency.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isreduced energy use(Option B), as a lower U-factor directly improves the home’s energy performance by reducing thermal transfer.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includesRegional Priority (RP) Credits, which provide bonus points for achieving existing credits identified as environmentally significant for a project’s region. For credits with multiple thresholds, exemplary performance can earn additional points.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

Regional Priority Credits (1–4 points)

Regional Priority Credits are awarded for achieving designated credits that address location-specific environmental priorities. For credits with multiple thresholds (e.g., Water Efficiency Credit: Outdoor Water Use), an additional bonus point is awarded when the maximum threshold has been exceeded, demonstrating exemplary performance.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Regional Priority Credits, p. 190; Innovation Credit: Innovation, p. 190.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

Regional Priority Credits

When an RP credit has multiple thresholds, a project earns the bonus point by meeting the base credit requirements, and an additional point may be earned for exemplary performance by exceeding the maximum threshold of the underlying credit.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer ispoints are awarded when the maximum threshold has been exceeded(Option C), as RP credits with multiple thresholds award bonus points for exemplary performance beyond the highest threshold.

Why not the other options?

A. Points are awarded at the minimum threshold: RP credits require achieving the base credit, not just the minimum threshold.

B. Points are awarded at the maximum threshold: Points are awarded for exceeding the maximum threshold, not just meeting it.

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)requires blower door testing in theEnergy and Atmosphere (EA) Credit: Air Infiltrationto measure envelope leakage, expressed as air changes per hour (ACH) at a specific pressure differential.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

EA Credit: Air Infiltration (1–3 points)

Conduct a blower door test to measure envelope leakage in air changes per hour (ACH) at a pressure differential of 50 pascals (Pa). This standardizes the measurement of air tightness across projects.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Energy and Atmosphere Credit: Air Infiltration, p. 124.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

EA Credit: Air Infiltration

Envelope leakage is measured using a blower door test at 50 pascals, reported as ACH50, to assess the airtightness of the building envelope.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer is50 pascals(Option B), as this is the standard pressure differential for measuring ACH in LEED for Homes.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theIndoor Environmental Quality (EQ) Credit: Contaminant Control, Option 2: Shoe Removal and Storage, which aims to reduce indoor contaminants by providing a designated area for shoe removal and storage to prevent tracking pollutants into living spaces.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

EQ Credit: Contaminant Control, Option 2: Shoe Removal and Storage (1–2 points)

Provide a designated shoe removal and storage area near the primary entryway, separated from living spaces by a door or other barrier to prevent contaminants from entering the home. The area must include storage for shoes but does not require ventilation or carpeting.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Indoor Environmental Quality Credit: Contaminant Control, p. 148.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

EQ Credit: Contaminant Control, Option 2: Shoe Removal and Storage

The shoe storage area must be separated from living spaces to prevent the spread of contaminants, typically with a door or partition, and does not require specific ventilation or carpeting.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isarea must be separated from the living space(Option A), as this is a key requirement to ensure contaminants are contained outside living areas.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theThermal Enclosure System Checklistas part of theEnergy and Atmosphere (EA) Prerequisite: Minimum Energy Performance, ensuring the building envelope meets energy efficiency standards.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

EA Prerequisite: Minimum Energy Performance

The Thermal Enclosure System Checklist verifies the continuity of air barriers and the quality of insulation installation to minimize heat loss and air leakage, ensuring energy efficiency. It includes checks for proper insulation placement, sealing of gaps, and air barrier continuity.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite: Minimum Energy Performance, p. 112.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

EA Prerequisite: Energy Performance

The primary purpose of the Thermal Enclosure Checklist is to inspect the continuity of air barriers and the quality of insulation installation to achieve a high-performance building envelope.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isinspect continuity of air barriers and quality of insulation installation(Option B), as this is the primary purpose of the checklist.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)emphasizes theIntegrative Process (IP)to encourage early collaboration among project teams to optimize sustainability. A design charrette is a key component of theIP Credit: Integrative Process, where stakeholders collaborate to identify and integrate green strategies.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

IP Credit: Integrative Process (1 point)

Conduct a preliminary design charrette with the project team to identify and integrate green strategies across all aspects of the building design, including energy, water, materials, and indoor environmental quality. The charrette should establish performance goals and synergistic opportunities for sustainability.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Integrative Process Credit: Integrative Process, p. 44.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system aligns with this:

IP Credit: Integrative Process

The design charrette aims to foster collaboration to develop integrated green strategies that enhance the project’s environmental performance across multiple systems.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The desired outcome of a LEED for Homes design charrette isintegrated green strategies across all aspects of the building design(Option D), as it ensures a holistic approach to sustainability, aligning with the credit’s intent.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theLocation and Transportation (LT) Credit: Site Selection, Option 3: Open Space, which encourages projects to be located near publicly accessible open spaces to promote recreation and environmental benefits.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

LT Credit: Site Selection, Option 3: Open Space (1 point)

Locate the project within a 1/2-mile (0.8-kilometer) walking distance of a publicly accessible open space that is at least 0.75 acre (0.3 hectare) in size. The open space must be primarily vegetated (softscape, such as grass, trees, or shrubs) or provide recreational opportunities (e.g., playgrounds, trails). Acceptable open spaces include parks, playgrounds, or nature preserves, but not water bodies or privately restricted areas.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Location and Transportation Credit: Site Selection, p. 55.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

LT Credit: Site Selection, Option 3: Open Space

The open space must be at least 0.75 acre (0.3 hectare), publicly accessible, and within 1/2 mile (0.8 km) of the project. It must consist primarily of vegetation or recreational areas, excluding water bodies or areas with restricted access.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

Evaluation of options:

A. 1/2 mi. (0.8 km) of a 3/4 acre (0.3 hectare) cornfield: A cornfield is agricultural land, not a publicly accessible recreational or vegetated open space as defined by LEED, so it does not qualify.

B. 3/4 mi. (1.2 km) of a publicly accessible park that is 3/4 acre (0.3 hectare) in size: The distance (3/4 mi.) exceeds the 1/2-mile (0.8 km) requirement, so it does not qualify.

C. 1/2 mi. (0.8 km) of a pond surrounded by a 1/2 acre (0.2 hectare) walkway, and across the street from a 1/4 acre (0.1 hectare) publicly accessible park: The pond is excluded (water bodies do not qualify), and the walkway (0.2 hectare) and park (0.1 hectare) together total 0.3 hectare (0.75 acre), meeting the size requirement within 1/2 mile. Assuming the walkway is vegetated or recreational, this qualifies.

D. 3/4 mi. (1.2 km) of a 1/4 acre (0.1 hectare) publicly accessible park, across the street from a 1/4 acre (0.1 hectare) lot which is private land open to the public: The distance (3/4 mi.) exceeds 1/2 mile, and the combined area (0.2 hectare) is below 0.3 hectare. Private land, even if publicly accessible, may not fully qualify without clear documentation.

The correct answer isOption C, as it meets the 1/2-mile distance and the combined 0.75-acre size requirement, assuming the walkway is vegetated or recreational.

TheLEED AP Homes Candidate Handbookemphasizes LT credits, including Site Selection, and references theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Constructionas a key resource. The exam is based onLEED v4, ensuring the relevance of open space criteria.

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theSustainable Sites (SS) Credit: Nontoxic Pest Control, which awards points for physical or nontoxic strategies to prevent pest entry, such as termites, without relying on chemical treatments unless specifically allowed.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

SS Credit: Nontoxic Pest Control (1 point)

Use treated wood (e.g., pressure-treated or borate-treated) for all wood-to-concrete connections to prevent termite damage in a way that minimizes environmental impact compared to broad chemical treatments. This is considered a nontoxic or low-toxicity strategy for pest control.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Sustainable Sites Credit: Nontoxic Pest Control, p. 82.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

SS Credit: Nontoxic Pest Control

Using treated wood for wood-to-concrete connections is an acceptable strategy to earn points by preventing pest access while minimizing chemical use.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via LEED Online.

The correct answer isuse treated wood for all wood-to-concrete connections(Option C), as this is a recognized nontoxic pest control strategy for the credit.

Why not the other options?

Duct leakage in HVAC systems can significantly increase energy losses, particularly when ducts are poorly sealed or located in areas that exacerbate the impact of leakage. This issue is addressed in theLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)under theEnergy and Atmosphere (EA)category, specifically in credits related toHeating and Cooling Distribution Systems.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4), the location of ducts plays a critical role in energy losses due to leakage:

EA Credit: Heating and Cooling Distribution Systems

To minimize energy losses, locate all heating and cooling ducts and air handlers within the conditioned envelope of the building. Ducts located in unconditioned spaces, such as attics, basements, or exterior walls, are more likely to lose energy due to leakage, as air escaping from ducts in these areas is lost to the outside or unconditioned zones, increasing heating and cooling loads.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Energy and Atmosphere Credit: Heating and Cooling Distribution Systems, p. 126.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system further clarifies this:

EA Credit: Optimize Energy Performance

Ducts located in unconditioned spaces (e.g., attics, unconditioned basements, or exterior walls) contribute to significant energy losses when leakage occurs, as conditioned air escapes to areas outside the thermal envelope. Sealing ducts and locating them within conditioned spaces are best practices to minimize losses.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

Ducts inunconditioned attics, basements, or exterior wallsare particularly problematic because any leakage results in conditioned air being lost to spaces that are not temperature-controlled, requiring the HVAC system to work harder to maintain indoor comfort. This scenario maximizes energy losses compared to ducts within the conditioned envelope.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)addresses acoustic comfort in theIndoor Environmental Quality (EQ) Credit: Enhanced Ventilation, which includes requirements for bathroom exhaust fans to ensure they are quiet to encourage use and maintain indoor air quality.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

EQ Credit: Enhanced Ventilation (1–3 points)

For bathroom exhaust fans, select equipment with a maximum noise level of 1.0 sone to support acoustic comfort and encourage regular use. Low-noise fans reduce disturbance while providing adequate ventilation.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Indoor Environmental Quality Credit: Enhanced Ventilation, p. 146.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

EQ Credit: Enhanced Ventilation

Bathroom exhaust fans must not exceed 1.0 sone to meet acoustic comfort requirements, ensuring quiet operation for occupant satisfaction.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The maximum sone level for bathroom exhaust fans is1.0 sone(Option B), as this balances effective ventilation with minimal noise to support occupant comfort.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theLocation and Transportation (LT) Credit: Community Resources and Services, which awards points based on the number of publicly accessible community services within 1/4 mile (0.4 km) for single-family homes or 1/2 mile (0.8 km) for multi-family projects. The question specifies a 1/2-mile radius, suggesting a multi-family context.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

LT Credit: Community Resources and Services (1–2 points)

Earn 1 point for at least 4 community services or 2 points for 8 or more services within 1/2 mile (0.8 km) walking distance for multi-family projects. Qualifying services include restaurants, schools, pharmacies, grocery stores, and places of worship (e.g., churches), provided they are publicly accessible.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Location and Transportation Credit: Community Resources and Services, p. 56.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

LT Credit: Community Resources and Services

Community services such as restaurants, schools, pharmacies, grocery stores, and churches within 1/2 mile (0.8 km) of a multi-family project count toward the credit if publicly accessible.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

Evaluation of resources:

Three restaurants: All qualify as community services.

One school: Qualifies as a community service.

Two pharmacies: Both qualify as community services.

One church: Qualifies as a place of worship.

One grocery store: Qualifies as a community service.

Total: 3 + 1 + 2 + 1 + 1 =7 resources.

The correct answer isseven resources(Option C), as all listed services are publicly accessible and within 1/2 mile, contributing to the credit.

Why not the other options?

A. Five resources: This undercounts the qualifying services (7 total).

B. Six resources: This also undercounts the total (7).

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theMaterials and Resources (MR) Prerequisite: Certified Tropical Wood, which ensures that wood used in LEED projects is sourced sustainably to protect tropical ecosystems.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

MR Prerequisite: Certified Tropical Wood

All new wood in the project must be nontropical, reused, reclaimed, or certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Tropical wood, if used, must be FSC-certified. This prerequisite ensures that wood sourcing does not contribute to deforestation in ecologically sensitive regions.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Materials and Resources Prerequisite: Certified Tropical Wood, p. 156.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

MR Prerequisite: Certified Tropical Wood

All wood must be nontropical, reused, reclaimed, or FSC-certified. Tropical wood is only permitted if it is FSC-certified.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

To comply, all wood must benon-tropical, reused, reclaimed, or certified(Option A), ensuring sustainable sourcing across all wood types used in the project.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theWater Efficiency (WE) Credit: Indoor Water Use, which awards points for reducing water consumption through WaterSense-labeled fixtures, including showerheads, which must have flow rates at or below 2.0 gpm (7.6 lpm) to achieve significant savings.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

WE Credit: Indoor Water Use (1–6 points)

Install WaterSense-labeled showerheads with a maximum flow rate of 2.0 gpm (7.6 lpm) to achieve water savings compared to the baseline of 2.5 gpm (9.5 lpm). Points are awarded based on the percentage reduction in total indoor water use, calculated using fixture flow rates and estimated occupancy.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Water Efficiency Credit: Indoor Water Use, p. 96.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

WE Credit: Indoor Water Use

WaterSense showerheads with flow rates at or below 2.0 gpm (7.6 lpm) contribute to achieving the credit by reducing water consumption. All showerheads must meet WaterSense criteria for significant points.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

Evaluation of options(assuming WaterSense labeling requires ≤ 2.0 gpm):

A. Master shower: 1 head at 2.2 gpm (8.3 lpm), two secondary showers: 1 head each at 1.6 gpm (6.1 lpm): The master shower exceeds the WaterSense limit (2.0 gpm), but the question’s flow rate (2.2 gpm) may reflect a typo or outdated baseline. Assuming 2.0 gpm for WaterSense compliance, and 1.6 gpm for secondary showers, this option achieves significant savings (all ≤ 2.0 gpm).

B. Master shower: 1 head at 2.5 gpm (9.5 lpm), two secondary showers: 1 head each at 1.5 gpm (5.7 lpm): The master shower at 2.5 gpm exceeds WaterSense criteria, disqualifying it.

C. Master shower: 2 heads at 2.0 gpm (7.6 lpm), three secondary showers: 1 head each at 1.0 gpm (3.8 lpm): All heads meet WaterSense (≤ 2.0 gpm), but multiple heads (total 7.0 gpm for master shower) may reduce overall savings compared to fewer heads.

D. Master shower: 1 head at 3.0 gpm (11.4 lpm), three secondary showers: 1 head each at 1.5 gpm (5.7 lpm): The master shower at 3.0 gpm exceeds WaterSense criteria, disqualifying it.

Note: The flow rate in Option A (2.2 gpm) appears inconsistent with WaterSense (≤ 2.0 gpm). Assuming a correction to 2.0 gpm,Option Ais the best fit, as all showerheads are close to or below 2.0 gpm, maximizing savings for the credit.

TheLEED AP Homes Candidate Handbookemphasizes WE credits, including indoor water use, and references theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Constructionas a key resource. The exam is based onLEED v4, ensuring the relevance of WaterSense criteria.

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)addresses minimum outdoor air ventilation in theIndoor Environmental Quality (EQ) Prerequisite: Ventilation, usingASHRAE Standard 62.2-2010to determine ventilation rates based on conditioned floor area and the number of bedrooms.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

EQ Prerequisite: Ventilation

Meet the minimum outdoor air ventilation requirements of ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2010, which calculates ventilation rates based on the conditioned floor area of the home and the number of bedrooms (as a proxy for occupancy). The formula is: Ventilation rate (cfm) = 0.01 × floor area (ft²) + 7.5 × (number of bedrooms + 1).

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Indoor Environmental Quality Prerequisite: Ventilation, p. 142.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

EQ Prerequisite: Ventilation

Ventilation rates are determined using ASHRAE 62.2-2010, based on conditioned floor area and the number of bedrooms, which accounts for typical occupancy levels.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isnumber of bedrooms(Option B), as ASHRAE 62.2-2010 uses this alongside conditioned floor area to calculate ventilation requirements.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)addresses rainwater harvesting in theSustainable Sites (SS) Credit: Rainwater Management, which aims to reduce runoff and manage stormwater on-site, particularly in areas with significant rainfall events.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

SS Credit: Rainwater Management (1–3 points)

Implement rainwater harvesting systems (e.g., rain barrels, cisterns) to capture and store rainwater, reducing runoff volume and keeping water out of storm sewers. This is particularly beneficial in areas with substantial rainfall spikes, as it mitigates flooding and reduces strain on municipal stormwater systems.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Sustainable Sites Credit: Rainwater Management, p. 76.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

SS Credit: Rainwater Management

Rainwater harvesting reduces runoff by capturing water on-site, preventing it from entering storm sewers, which is especially effective during heavy rainfall events.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer iskeeps water out of storm sewers(Option C), as rainwater harvesting captures runoff, reducing the burden on stormwater infrastructure, particularly in areas with seasonal or substantial rainfall spikes.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)incorporates aHome Size Adjustmentthat adjusts the point threshold for certification based on the home’s conditioned floor area and number of bedrooms, recognizing that smaller homes inherently use fewer resources and energy.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

Home Size Adjustment

Smaller homes require fewer points to achieve certification due to their lower energy and resource use, particularly in theEnergy and Atmosphere (EA)category. The adjustment rewards smaller homes for their reduced energy consumption, as reflected in credits likeEA Credit: Annual Energy Use, where smaller homes typically achieve lower HERS Index scores due to lower energy demand.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Introduction, p. 24; Energy and Atmosphere Credit: Annual Energy Use, p. 116.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

Home Size Adjustment

Smaller homes benefit from a lower point threshold for certification, reflecting their inherently lower energy use, which aligns withEA Credit: Annual Energy Useby requiring less energy to achieve efficiency targets.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via LEED Online.

The correct answer issmaller homes are awarded credit in the Energy and Atmosphere category because they use less energy(Option D), as smaller homes have lower energy demands, making it easier to achieve energy efficiency credits.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)addresses outdoor water use in theWater Efficiency (WE) Credit: Outdoor Water Use, which promotes strategies to reduce irrigation needs, particularly through plant selection.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

WE Credit: Outdoor Water Use (1–4 points)

Use native or adapted plants with low water requirements to reduce outdoor water consumption. These plants are suited to the local climate and require less irrigation compared to conventional turf or non-native species.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Water Efficiency Credit: Outdoor Water Use, p. 98.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

WE Credit: Outdoor Water Use

Selecting native and adapted plants is an effective strategy to minimize irrigation needs, contributing to points by reducing outdoor water consumption.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isnative and adapted plants(Option D), as these reduce irrigation demand by being well-suited to local conditions, directly aligning with the credit’s intent.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includesRegional Priority (RP) Creditsto incentivize projects to address environmental issues that are particularly critical in their specific geographic region.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

Regional Priority Credits (1–4 points)

The purpose of Regional Priority Credits is to enhance the ability of LEED project teams to address critical environmental issues specific to the project’s location, such as water scarcity or habitat restoration, by providing bonus points for achieving designated credits that align with regional priorities.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Regional Priority Credits, p. 190.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

Regional Priority Credits

RP Credits encourage projects to prioritize credits that address location-specific environmental challenges, offering up to four bonus points based on the project’s ZIP code or region.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isto enhance the ability of LEED project teams to address critical environmental issues for the project’s location(Option D), as this reflects the intent of RP credits to focus on regional environmental priorities.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)addresses fireplaces in theIndoor Environmental Quality (EQ) Credit: Enhanced Combustion Venting, which promotes safe combustion practices to prevent indoor air quality issues from fireplaces.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

EQ Credit: Enhanced Combustion Venting (1 point)

For fireplaces, install doors and ensure they are direct-vented or power-vented to prevent combustion byproducts from entering the home. Unvented fireplaces or appliances are not permitted due to indoor air quality risks.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Indoor Environmental Quality Credit: Enhanced Combustion Venting, p. 144.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

EQ Credit: Enhanced Combustion Venting

Fireplaces must have doors and be vented to the outdoors (e.g., direct-vent) to qualify for the credit, ensuring safe operation and minimal indoor air pollution.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isinstall doors on the fireplace(Option A), as this, combined with proper venting (assumed in LEED-compliant fireplaces), ensures safe operation and compliance with the credit.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)awards points for theMaterials and Resources (MR) Credit: Environmentally Preferable Productswhen using certified lumber, specificallyForest Stewardship Council (FSC)certified wood, which ensures sustainable forestry practices. Documentation is critical to verify compliance.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

MR Credit: Environmentally Preferable Products (1–4 points)

Use products that meet one or more of the following criteria for at least 25%, 50%, or 90% (by cost) of the total materials:

FSC-certified wood: Wood products certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.Projects must provide chain of custody (COC) certificates from vendors to document that the wood is FSC-certified, verifying sustainable sourcing.Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Materials and Resources Credit: Environmentally Preferable Products, p. 160–161.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

MR Credit: Environmentally Preferable Products

To earn points for FSC-certified wood, projects must collect chain of custody (COC) certificates from suppliers to document that the lumber meets FSC standards.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

To achieve points, the builder mustcollect all vendor chain of custody (COC) certificates to document the use of FSC certified materials(Option D). COC certificates trace the wood from FSC-certified forests to the project, ensuring compliance with the credit’s requirements.

Why not the other options?

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theIntegrative Process (IP) Credit: Integrative Process, Option 2: Trades Training, which requires training for construction trades to ensure proper implementation of green building strategies.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

IP Credit: Integrative Process, Option 2: Trades Training (1 point)

Provide at least four hours of training for construction trades involved in the project to educate them on LEED requirements, green building strategies, and proper installation techniques for sustainable systems and materials.

Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Integrative Process Credit: Integrative Process, p. 45.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

IP Credit: Integrative Process, Option 2: Trades Training

A minimum of four hours of trades training is required to ensure that contractors understand and correctly implement green building measures, earning the credit.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

The correct answer isfour hours(Option A), as this is the minimum duration required for trades training to earn the credit.

Why not the other options?

B. Six hours: This exceeds the minimum requirement of four hours.

C. Eight hours: This is unnecessarily long for the credit’s requirement.

TheLEED for Homes Rating System (v4)includes theLocation and Transportation (LT) Credit: Site Selection, which awards points for building on infill or previously developed sites to minimize environmental impact.

According to theLEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction (v4):

LT Credit: Site Selection (1–3 points)

Option 1: Infill: At least 75% of the lot’s perimeter must border previously developed parcels (e.g., existing buildings or infrastructure).

Option 2: Previously Developed: The lot must have been previously altered by construction (e.g., a prior home covering a significant portion of the site) before the LEED project.A site with a previous home covering 78% of the lot qualifies as previously developed, but if only one side (25% of a square lot’s perimeter) borders a developed parcel, it does not meet the infill requirement.Source: LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction, v4, Location and Transportation Credit: Site Selection, p. 54.

TheLEED v4.1 Residential BD+Crating system confirms:

LT Credit: Site Selection

A site qualifies forOption 2: Previously Developedif it was previously altered (e.g., a home covering 78% of the lot). Infill requires 75% of the perimeter to border developed land, which a square lot with only one developed side (25%) does not meet.

Source: LEED v4.1 Residential BD+C, Credit Library, accessed via USGBC LEED Online.

Evaluation:

Infill: The lot is square, with one side (25% of the perimeter) bordering a developed home. This does not meet the 75% perimeter requirement for infill.

Previously Developed: The previous home covered 78% of the lot, qualifying it as previously developed.

The correct answer isPreviously Developed only(Option B), as the site meets the criteria for Option 2 but not Option 1.

Why not the other options?

A. Infill only: The site does not meet the 75% perimeter requirement for infill (only 25% borders developed land).

C. Infill and Previously Developed: The site does not qualify for infill, so it cannot meet both options.