Among the leading sustainability BREEAM assessment systems for buildings worldwide is BREEAM, or Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method. It assesses a building’s environmental performance across several criteria including health, materials, energy, and water. Although getting a BREEAM rating improves a building’s worth and reputation, passing the examination is difficult. Common roadblocks abound for several groups throughout the process. BREEAM assessments are not simple to achieve. Numerous teams experience common pitfalls along the way. Listed here are seven typical hurdles and how you can turn them around to achieve your project’s sustainability objectives.
Incomplete or Late Documentation
Proper documentation is especially crucial for BREEAM evaluations. Even the most environmentally friendly feature will not receive points without evidence. Failing to supply what is required or sending papers late is among the most difficult problems. Often, project teams underestimate how much paperwork is necessary. This covers reports, certificates, third-party verifications, and technical drawings. Low marks or accelerated timelines can result from delays in collecting this proof. Tracking paperwork from day one is essential. Keeping a central file system and consistent team member check-ins prevents final-minute mayhem.
Poor Communication Between Stakeholders
Multiple participants in a BREEAM assessment project include contractors, engineers, architects, and advisors. Things go wrong when these teams lack clear communication. Gaps can result from misinterpretations regarding who bears liability for which credits. Missed major early design opportunities usually result from a lack of coordination. Early stages of preparation should include energy efficiency initiatives, not last-minute arrangements. Having scheduled coordination meetings and appointing a devoted BREEAM champion helps everyone to be in sync.
Budget Limitations
Often necessitating investment, sustainability may include upfront costs for high-performance insulation, water-saving systems, or renewable energy sources. Reaching greater BREEAM assessment ratings like “Excellent” or “Outstanding” gets challenging with restricted budgets. Some developers omit green aspects to remain within budget. Others underestimate the long-run benefits these features provide. Early planning is helpful here. Define a reasonable sustainability budget and look for affordable substitutions. Small alterations like smart lighting or reused materials can occasionally generate meaningful credits without great costs.
Tight Project Schedules
Usually running on tight deadlines, building projects can feel challenging by adding a BREEAM assessment. Some BREEAM standards call for time, including thermal modelling or ecological studies. Teams that don’t leave room for these activities might skip them totally or rush through them. This results in missed credits and a reduction in the final grade. Sustainability measures must be included in the fundamental project schedule.
Changes During the Design or Construction Phase
In construction projects, modifications abound. But in BREEAM assessment developments, they can be costly. Modifications in a material, system, or design can impact sustainability objectives. Changing to a less expensive material might, for instance, lower your indoor air quality score. Or deleting a proposed green roof could have an impact on the ecological sector. Before making design changes, it is imperative to evaluate the BREEAM influence. Avoid unexpected results by continually engaging your assessor throughout the project.
Misunderstanding the Criteria
Technical and thorough, BREEAM assessment evaluates. Every credit has particular evidence and instruction requirements. One usual obstacle is not completely grasping these criteria, especially for newbie teams. Assuming anything qualifies without checking the standard can lead to rejected credits. Always review the latest BREEAM manual and consult your assessor early. Training sessions and workshops for the team can also improve understanding and avoid common mistakes.
Lack of Early Stage Planning
Many BREEAM objectives can only be met when they are organised early on. Rarely are one’s attempts to check off credits toward the conclusion of the project. Certain elements demand decisions during the early design phases, including natural daylight analysis or sustainable site selection. Missed chances might come from leaving BREEAM planning too late. You might also find it more costly or technologically impractical to meet certain requirements later on. Include a BREEAM assessor during concept design. Find early quick victories and develop a roadmap to achieve your desired rating.
Conclusion
Achieving a BREEAM assessment calls for teamwork, planning, and open communication in addition to good intentions. Each level from documentation to budget offers its own set of hurdles. The secret is to engage the right people from the start, stay informed, and start early. Though the procedure occasionally feels challenging, the advantages justify it. A strong BREEAM score indicates that your building values people, the planet, and long-term performance. By knowing and resolving these often encountered obstacles, your project can not only pass the assessment but also do so with certainty.
