Question 1

Who is the BREEM New construction certification best suited for?

Accepted Answer

BREEAM New Construction is best suited for property developers, architects, and sustainability consultants working on new commercial, residential, or mixed-use building projects who want internationally recognized certification of their building's environmental performance. It is particularly valuable for those seeking to meet investor ESG requirements, comply with planning conditions in the UK and Europe, or demonstrate alignment with EU Taxonomy criteria.

Question 2

How much does the BREEM New construction cost?

Accepted Answer

The initial cost for the BREEM New construction is $2,500 USD.

Question 3

How long does it take to complete the BREEM New construction?

Accepted Answer

The program typically takes 104 weeks to complete. It requires approximately 200 hours of study.

Question 4

What are the renewal requirements for the BREEM New construction?

Accepted Answer

BREEAM New Construction certifications are issued at design stage and post-construction stage and do not require periodic renewal — the rating is tied to the building at the time of assessment. However, buildings seeking to maintain or update their sustainability credentials may pursue BREEAM In-Use certification for ongoing operational performance. Assessors and licensed professionals must maintain their own BREEAM Assessor accreditation separately through BRE.

Question 5

What continuing education is required for the BREEM New construction?

Accepted Answer

No continuing education or CPD requirements are attached to the BREEAM New Construction building certification itself. BREEAM Assessors who conduct assessments must maintain their individual accreditation through BRE, which includes CPD obligations set by BRE Global.

Question 6

What evidence is required for the BREEM New construction?

Accepted Answer

Projects must submit detailed documentation demonstrating compliance across BREEAM categories including energy performance modelling, materials specifications, ecology assessments, health and wellbeing strategies, and pollution mitigation measures. A licensed BREEAM Assessor collects and verifies evidence at design stage and post-construction stage. Evidence typically includes design drawings, specifications, calculations, commissioning records, and third-party reports. A post-construction review confirms that design-stage commitments were delivered on site.

Question 7

Who should NOT pursue the BREEM New construction?

Accepted Answer

Consider alternatives if your project is located primarily in North America, where LEED or ENERGY STAR may offer stronger market recognition and local code alignment. Also avoid if your project timeline or budget cannot accommodate the documentation, third-party assessment fees, and ongoing compliance requirements that BREEAM entails.

Question 8

What are alternatives to the BREEM New construction?

Accepted Answer

Alternative certifications include: LEED BD+C: New Construction, DGNB New Buildings Certification, Green Star Design & As Built, HQE Construction Certification, WELL Building Standard.

Question 9

What is the salary impact of the BREEM New construction?

Accepted Answer

BREEAM certification is widely recognized by institutional investors and developers across Europe and the UK, and BREEAM-certified buildings typically command rental premiums of 5–10% and higher asset valuations compared to non-certified equivalents. For sustainability professionals and BREEAM Assessors, holding BREEAM expertise is a valued skill that can increase consulting rates and career opportunities in the green building sector.

BREEM New construction

Key Strengths

Ideal For

Target Audiences

Relevant Roles

Industries

Alignment & Recognition

Accrediting Body

Building Scope

Overview

Requirements & Verification

Renewal & Compliance

Impact & Outcomes

Consider Alternatives If...

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Facts

Cost Breakdown

How to Display This Recognition

Rating Details

Related Certifications

Sources & Citations