6.3.3 Certifications Not Recognized by HUD

A. HUD may accept other national or multistate green building certifications to qualify for green MIP rates for applications proposing new construction or improvements to existing buildings provided that the Project Architect certifies to HUD that the procedures and requirements of the proposed certification meet all of the following requirements:

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Chapter 6 Energy and Water Conservation 6.4 General Requirements for Green MIP

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1. Minimum Performance Improvement for Non-Recognized Certifications. For new construction and substantial rehabilitation (of properties with no benchmarked recent history) the certification must require designed building performance that achieves not less than a 25% reduction in estimated energy use (not energy costs) by comparison with the energy use estimated for the same structures if built to the HUD minimum codes (See Section 6.1.1). For existing buildings (with a benchmarked recent history, see Section 6.6.3) the certification must require a reduction in energy use (not energy cost) of not less than 15% by comparison with the benchmarked energy use.

2. Independent Verification of Design & Construction. The proposed certification requires independent verification of energy conservation measures and sustainable products and methods. Such verification should occur at appropriate, identified milestones during design and during the progress of construction. (Appropriate milestones include: review of final drawings and specifications prior to application for firm commitment; on-site inspections of the building envelop and rough mechanical installation prior to drywall or closing of wall cavities; and a final inspection or commissioning after construction completion). The standard-keeper must designate or approve the verifier(s). The independent verifier may have no identity of interest with the Sponsor, the Borrower, the Lender, the Project Architect, the General Contractor or any subcontractor or engaged trades.

3. Documentation of Procedures, Findings, Award of Certification. The standard-keeper for any national or multi-state green building certification must require from the verifier and furnish to the Project Architect and/or Borrower timely written documentation of results or conclusions at each milestone of practice or achievement that is necessary for certification including the final award (or denial) of the certification after construction completion.

4. Architect’s Certification. The identity of the standard keeper, the name of the proposed national or multi-state green building certification, the selected level or grade of achievement (e.g., silver, gold, platinum, etc.) as well as the Project Architect’s certification, must accompany the mortgage insurance application. (See Project Architect’s Certification, Appendix 5, Section A.5.8.1 for new construction or substantial rehabilitation or Appendix 5, Section A.5.8.2 for refinance or acquisition of existing properties).