How are new construction and major renovation treated in LEED applicability?

• A. Distinct project types with specific credit applicability and baselines
• B. Treated identically for all credits
• C. Only new construction can pursue credits
• D. Renovations cannot pursue any LEED credits

Answer: (A)

LEED treats new construction and major renovations as separate project types, each with its own set of credits that apply and its own baseline standards. This matters because starting from a blank lot requires different design targets and performance benchmarks than upgrading an existing building, so the credits you pursue and how you demonstrate performance must align with the project type. By having distinct applicability and baselines, LEED ensures the certification path fits the actual work being done, whether you’re building anew or renovating substantially. That’s why this option is the best choice: it captures the idea that each project type has specific credits and baselines tailored to its context. The other statements don’t fit because renovations can pursue many LEED credits and aren’t excluded from credits, and new construction isn’t the only path to certification.