Rating System

LEED O+M: Existing Buildings, LEED O+M: Existing Buildings, LEED O+M: Existing Buildings

Rating System Version

v2 - LEED 2.0, v3 - LEED 2008, v3 - LEED 2009

Inquiry

Our project is a 95,000 sf, 150 year old, Mill composed of multiple adjoining buildings. When certified, it is our understanding, that this building will be the oldest LEED certified building. The last major renovation of the building was roughly 30 years ago when we first occupied it. There have been minor renovations since then. The mechanical system is complex due to the nature of a 150 year old building and the many adaptations that happen over time. It is comprised of over 30 air-handling units. Between operable windows and the existing mechanical system 88% of the building\'s square feet meet the credit requirements for ventilation rates prescribed in ASHRAE 90.1 2004 or meet at least 10 cfm per person in areas where it is not possible to upgrade the system due to physical constraints. We have a signed contract to perform work to bring the remaining 12% of the space up to ASHRAE 90.1 2004 ventilation rates. Modifying an existing building\'s outside air distribution system to supply at least the outdoor air ventilation rates required by ASHRAE 62.1 2004 can be a lengthy process considering time to procure materials and labor. The credit implies that the system modifications and readings must be completed prior to submitting for project certification. Other prerequisites have options for plans to comply within a timeframe instead of demonstrating full compliance. LEED NC 2.2 EA PR 3 allows for a 5 year phase-out plan for CFCs in an existing facility and LEED EB 2.0 PR 3&4 allow asbestos and pcb management plans as opposed to complete removal of those substances. In regards to LEED EB 2.0 EQ PR1, we propose that if less than 25% of the building sf requires system modifications, due to the complexity of an existing building, then a plan to complete the modifications within three months will satisfy this credit. The documentation will include a signed contract by the owner and the mechanical contractor to complete the work within the three month period. Please confirm that this approach will satisfy LEEB EB 2.0 EQ PR1.