LEED AP with Operations and Maintenance (O+M ) Practice Exam

What is the existing buildings water use baseline for buildings with a certificate of occupancy dated 1950 in the case of Indoor Water Use Reduction?

1. 100%

2. 125%

3. 150%

4. 175%

The correct answer is: 150%

For buildings with a certificate of occupancy dated 1950, the existing buildings water use baseline for the purpose of Indoor Water Use Reduction is set at 150%. This baseline reflects the higher water usage typical of older buildings, which often lack water-efficient fixtures and systems that are more common in newer constructions. The baseline percentage is essential for establishing how much water use reduction is achievable through the implementation of water-efficient fixtures and systems. By identifying the baseline at this specific percentage, it allows building owners to strategically plan and track their water-saving measures against a realistic metric based on historical data. This approach ensures that the targets set for water use reduction are not only challenging but also technically feasible for older building facilities. Using this baseline, projects can aim to achieve significant reductions by upgrading plumbing fixtures, optimizing irrigation systems, and implementing other water conservation strategies, ultimately contributing to sustainability goals and potentially qualifying for points under the LEED certification system.