The Cost of LEED—An Analysis of the Construction Costs of LEED and Non-LEED Banks

Abstract

This study is an analysis of the initial building costs for two Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) banks and eight non-LEED banks with similar building types and sizes located in western Colorado. The purpose of this study was to compare the costs of these banks, and to assess costs directly associated with LEED certification. The analysis examines total building costs, square footage costs, soft costs, and hard costs per MasterFormat Division. The study finds that the building costs of the LEED banks are similar to and within the same ranges as non-LEED banks. Additionally, the direct cost associated with seeking LEED certification is estimated to be below 2% of the total project cost.