How does LEED differentiate between prerequisites and credits?

• A. Prerequisites are mandatory minimum requirements; credits are optional add-ons that earn points.
• B. Credits are mandatory minimum requirements; prerequisites are optional add-ons that earn points.
• C. Prerequisites and credits are both optional with different scoring.
• D. Prerequisites are performance-based standards; credits are administrative requirements.

Answer: (A)

In LEED, a project must meet all prerequisites first, and those prerequisites are mandatory minimum requirements that establish baseline performance and compliance. Prerequisites ensure essential aspects like safety, accessibility, energy performance, water efficiency, and indoor environmental quality are addressed. After satisfying prerequisites, the team can pursue credits, which are optional and earn points toward certification. The total points earned from credits determine the project's rating level (Certified, Silver, Gold, Platinum). So prerequisites are the non-negotiable foundation for eligibility, while credits reward additional sustainable strategies beyond that baseline.