Buildings play a significant role in environmental impact, energy efficiency, and occupant well-being. But maintaining sustainability in an existing building is just as important as designing a new one with green standards in mind.
This is where BREEAM In-Use Assessments come in.
BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is the world’s leading sustainability assessment for buildings. The In-Use version is specifically designed for existing, operational buildings, helping property owners, facility managers, and investors measure and improve their sustainability performance.
If you own or manage a commercial or residential building, a BREEAM In-Use Assessment can help you:
- Improve energy efficiency
- Reduce carbon footprint
- Enhance occupant comfort and well-being
- Increase asset value and marketability
- Ensure compliance with environmental regulations
At BREEAM Assessment UK, we provide expert assessments, guidance, and certification to help you achieve your sustainability goals.
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Why BREEAM In-Use Matters for Your Property
Unlike new developments that can be designed with sustainability in mind, existing buildings often face challenges in energy consumption, material use, and overall efficiency. A BREEAM In-Use Assessment identifies these challenges and offers actionable solutions.
Here’s why it’s worth considerin
Improving the sustainability of older properties requires a clear framework that identifies performance gaps and practical upgrade opportunities. Understanding how operational buildings can be evaluated helps owners plan effective retrofits and long-term efficiency improvements. To learn how existing properties can enhance performance and achieve certification, explore BREEAM for existing buildings, which explains how sustainability standards apply to buildings already in use.
1. Energy Efficiency & Cost Savings
Buildings account for nearly 40% of global energy consumption. A BREEAM In-Use assessment helps identify areas where energy is wasted and provides recommendations to reduce costs through better insulation, lighting, heating, and cooling systems.
2. Compliance with Environmental Standards
Governments and organizations are pushing for stricter sustainability regulations. BREEAM In-Use helps your building stay compliant with legal and environmental requirements, avoiding fines and improving corporate responsibility.
3. Improved Indoor Environment for Occupants
A sustainable building isn’t just about energy—it’s about people too. BREEAM In-Use evaluates air quality, lighting, thermal comfort, and acoustics, ensuring healthier and more productive environments for tenants and employees.
4. Increased Property Value & Marketability
A high BREEAM rating can make your building more attractive to investors, buyers, and tenants. Companies are prioritizing sustainable office spaces, and environmentally conscious tenants are more likely to choose a property with a strong green profile.
5. Reduced Carbon Footprint
If you want your building to contribute to a more sustainable future, BREEAM In-Use assessments help pinpoint areas where carbon emissions can be minimized through efficient resource use and green technologies.
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The Three Parts of a BREEAM In-Use Assessment
A BREEAM In-Use Assessment evaluates buildings based on three key aspects:
1. Asset Performance (Part 1)
This assesses the physical structure, design, and materials of the building. It looks at elements like:
- Energy efficiency
- Water consumption
- Waste management
- Material sourcing and environmental impact
2. Building Management (Part 2)
This focuses on how the building is operated and maintained. It evaluates:
- Maintenance policies
- Energy and water monitoring
- Waste reduction strategies
- Health and safety measures
3. Occupier Management (Part 3)
This considers how building occupants interact with the space and how well sustainability initiatives are communicated and followed. Key aspects include:
- Tenant engagement in sustainability efforts
- Staff training on energy-saving practices
- Health and well-being initiatives
- Each part is scored separately, allowing flexibility for building owners to focus on specific areas of improvement.
Improving energy efficiency helps reduce costs, enhance sustainability performance, and achieve higher ratings; learn practical strategies by exploring improving energy efficiency.
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Our BREEAM In-Use Assessment Process
We begin by understanding your building type, operational needs, and sustainability goals. A pre-assessment helps identify strengths and areas for improvement.
Our certified BREEAM assessors conduct a detailed review of energy use, materials, management practices, and environmental impact.
Your building receives a preliminary BREEAM rating based on the assessment results. We provide a detailed report with improvement strategies to help you achieve a higher score.
If you choose to act on the recommendations, we can guide you through implementing energy-saving upgrades, policy changes, and operational improvements.
Once improvements are made, we conduct a final assessment and submit your results for official BREEAM certification. Regular monitoring helps ensure long-term sustainability.
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Who Should Get a BREEAM In-Use Assessment?
1. Property Owners & Landlords
Looking to increase property value and attract tenants? A high BREEAM rating can give you a competitive advantage in the real estate market.
2. Facility Managers
Want to improve your building’s energy efficiency and operational performance? BREEAM In-Use assessments highlight practical ways to enhance sustainability.
3. Investors & Developers
A sustainable building is a more valuable asset. Investors use BREEAM In-Use ratings to assess potential acquisitions and development projects.
4. Businesses & Corporate Tenants
Companies committed to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and employee well-being benefit from operating in a certified green building.
If your building is already occupied and operational, a BREEAM In-Use Assessment is the perfect tool to measure and improve sustainability.
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Why Choose Us for Your BREEAM In-Use Assessment
1. Certified & Experienced BREEAM Assessors
Our team consists of qualified experts with years of experience in sustainable building assessments.
2. Tailored Recommendations for Your Building
We don’t just provide scores—we offer actionable strategies to help you improve your building’s performance.
3. Hassle-Free Certification Process
We handle everything from initial consultation to final certification, making the process seamless for you.
4. Commitment to Long-Term Sustainability
Our goal isn’t just to help you pass the assessment—it’s to help you build a more sustainable future for your property.
If you’re ready to enhance your building’s efficiency and sustainability, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does a BREEAM In-Use Assessment take?
The timeline varies depending on your building’s size and complexity. Generally, the process takes a few weeks to a couple of months, from data collection to certification.
What kind of buildings can be assessed under BREEAM In-Use?
BREEAM In-Use applies to existing commercial, industrial, and residential buildings that are already occupied and operational.
How often should I get a BREEAM In-Use Assessment?
To maintain a high sustainability standard, it’s recommended to reassess your building every 1-3 years, especially if upgrades or operational changes occur.
Can a BREEAM In-Use Assessment help me save money?
Yes. By improving energy efficiency, reducing waste, and optimizing operations, businesses can see significant cost savings over time.
How do I get started with a BREEAM In-Use Assessment?
Simply contact us for a consultation. We’ll discuss your property, guide you through the process, and help you achieve a higher sustainability rating.
Let’s Make Your Building More Sustainable
A BREEAM In-Use Assessment is more than just a certification—it’s a roadmap to a greener, more efficient, and higher-value building. Whether you’re looking to cut energy costs, boost market appeal, or meet sustainability goals, we can help.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to schedule your assessment.