Which systems must be commissioned to earn Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Fundamental Commissioning and Verification?
Answer : C
The Fundamental Commissioning and Verification prerequisite requires commissioning of the building's mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and renewable energy systems and assemblies. While the building envelope is not typically commissioned, it must be included in the owner's project requirements (OPR) and basis of design (BOD), and its design must be reviewed.
The use of MERV 13 (F7) air filters is required to obtain what credit?
Using the scale of 0 = no view and 5 = maximum view, what is the view factor in the diagram below, as defined in Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Quality Views?

Answer : C
The view factor is a measure used in LEED to quantify the quality of views for occupants within a space. In the Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Quality Views, the rating scale for view factors ranges from 0 (no view) to 5 (maximum view). In the provided diagram, it appears that the space has large windows that provide ample daylight and a view to the outside, which is a key consideration for quality views.
Although the specific outdoor view cannot be determined from the diagram alone, the presence of large windows and the potential for expansive views suggests a high view factor. View Factor 4 is typically assigned to spaces where the view window head height is at least 7 feet 6 inches above the floor, allowing occupants a clear line of sight to the outdoors. This would contribute significantly to the occupants' connection with the outdoor environment, thus scoring higher on the scale.
It is important to note that the exact view factor cannot be precisely determined without additional context regarding the actual visible content outside the windows. However, based on the scale provided and typical LEED scoring, View Factor 4 seems appropriate given the sizeable windowed areas depicted, assuming they provide a clear and unobstructed view to the exterior. Reference:
LEED v4 for Interior Design and Construction Reference Guide, specifically the section on Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Quality Views
Source reduction appears at the top of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) hierarchy because it
Answer : D
According to the EPA's hierarchy, source reduction is prioritized because it addresses the environmental impacts of materials across their entire life cycle. This includes the extraction of raw materials, manufacturing, distribution, usage, and end-of-life management, including recycling and disposal. By reducing the amount of material used, source reduction minimizes the environmental footprint throughout the entire process.
A Client is fitting out a building with area 20,500 ft2 (1 904.5 m2) and wishes to pursue the Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Enhanced Commissioning. Who may be appointed as the Commissioning Authority (CxA) for the project?
Answer : B
For the Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Enhanced Commissioning, the Commissioning Authority (CxA) plays a crucial role in overseeing the commissioning process. The CxA must be independent of the project's design and construction team to maintain objectivity. An employee of the architecture or engineering firm involved in the project could potentially have a conflict of interest. Similarly, a member of the construction team could also have biases that might affect the commissioning process's integrity. Therefore, a sub-consultant to the architecture or engineering firm, who is not part of the project's design team, is an appropriate choice for the CxA role, ensuring independence and impartiality in the commissioning process. Reference:
LEED v4 for Interior Design and Construction Reference Guide, particularly the section on Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Enhanced Commissioning
A tenant moves into an existing building where no modifications to the building envelope will be made. What credit would be affected by the visible light transmittance of the existing exterior glazing?
Answer : A
When developing the overall energy strategy of the project, which credit should the client consider to work synergistically with the Energy and Atmosphere Credit, Enhanced Commissioning, on an ongoing basis?