LEED for Core & Shell is used when the project owner controls the design and construction of which part?

• A. The building's core and shell (envelope, mechanical, electrical, plumbing).
• B. Interior design and tenant fit-outs.
• C. The entire property including surrounding site.
• D. Neighborhood development.

Answer: (A)

LEED Core & Shell is used when the project owner controls the design and construction of the base building elements—the parts that make up the envelope and the essential systems housed within the core and shared spaces (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing). These are the components the owner sets, while interior design and tenant fit-outs are typically addressed later by occupants and are not part of Core & Shell scope. The broader scope of interior space, surrounding site, or neighborhood development goes beyond the base building core and shell, so they aren’t the focus of Core & Shell.