BREEAM Frequently Asked Questions

When should a building be assessed?
Faber Maunsell's Sustainable Development Group have assessed buildings at all stages of their lifecycle, from outline design to completion. However the design should ideally be far enough forward for drawings to be made available. In general, the earlier a BREEAM assessment is undertaken then the easier and more cost effective it is to achieve a good rating. The BREEAM assessment should be underway by working drawings stage. Assessment of existing office buildings can be done at any time after the expiry of the defects liability period.

How do I know my building will do well?
If a client wishes to ensure that the building is capable of performing well before committing to an assessment, Faber Maunsell's Sustainable Development Group can offer a low cost pre-assessment review, with no obligation. Please call for more details.

How do I make sure I get the best rating?
Faber Maunsell's Sustainable Development Group experienced assessors will guide the design team through the process, ensuring that the correct information is submitted to the BRE and advising on cost effective means of achieving the best rating possible. Faber Maunsells' Sustainable Development Group assessors have been carrying out BREEAMs for more than ten years, and can provide targeted advice, including helful information sheets and standard specification clauses. Since BREEAM 98 was launched, more than 50% of the assessments Faber Maunsell's Sustainable Development Group have completed achieved Excellent ratings.

What is the Environmental Performance Index?
This only applies to BREEAM 98 and EcoHomes assessments. Their BREEAM certificates also display an Environmental Performance Index (EPI) score. This is calculated from the number of core credits achieved (those credits which apply to a building at any stage of its life cycle). A rating of 1 to 10 is awarded.

How much will an assessment cost?
The cost depends on the scheme used, the type of service required, and the size and complexity of the development. All of our costs are quoted 'all-in', including expenses and BRE certification fees. Fees are based on BRE recommended rates, however Faber Maunsell's Sustainable Development Group offer discounts for simultaneous assessments of multiple buildings, and for regular BREEAM clients. An average assessment will cost between £2,000 and £4,000.

How long does an assessment take?
Faber Maunsell's Sustainable Development Group have completed assessments in as little as one month, however under normal circumstances an assessment will take around three months to complete. This is to allow sufficient time for the design team to produce the required information. Through carrying out hundreds of assessments, Faber Maunsell's Sustainable Development Group have streamlined the process to ensure that clients achieve the rating they desire, without excessive time or cost!

How soon can the assessment process begin?
With eight fully trained and experienced BREEAM assessors, Faber Maunsell's Sustainable Development Group are able to commence BREEAM assessments at the convenience of the client.

How do I commission an assessment?
The first step is to contact Faber Maunsell's Sustainable Development Group to obtain a written quotation. You will need to have handy the net floor area of the building, and some basic details about the project, such as services strategy etc. If you would like to discuss the assessment further before obtaining a quotation, or if you are unsure about undertaking an assessment then please call. Faber Maunsell's Sustainable Development Group are happy to provide quotes for competitive tender bids.