The Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI), which provides third-party certification of LEED projects and administers LEED professional credentialing, has introduced a new professional certification under the LEED program for building professionals and other contractors.

The LEED for Homes Green Rater credential certifies individuals who work independently from the design process to serve as qualified third-party verifiers of high-performance green homes built to the LEED rating system. According to Beth Holst, the GBCI's vice president of credentialing, verifiers play a critical role in the certification of LEED for Homes projects, and ensuring that all verifiers possess the same level of knowledge and skills will be crucial to the success of the program as demand for LEED-certified homes increases. Many of the same people who have served as project verifiers prior to the launch of the Green Rater certification will become credentialed Green Raters, according to the GBCI. The new certification program standardizes the eligibility requirements, training, and exam for these individuals, along with the expectations for their abilities and services.

In addition to performing in-field project verifications, Green Raters also act as a link between LEED for Homes Providers and project teams, and they may work directly for the provider or as a subcontractor to the provider.

The LEED for Homes Green Rater certification program offers an advanced track for individuals who have previously performed verification of LEED-H projects with a provider, as well as a conventional track for those with minimal experience performing verification on LEED-H projects. The GBCI is now accepting applications for the LEED for Homes Green Rater program; applications are available at www.gbci.org.