Owners and managers of Multifamily housing are realizing healthy apartment buildings have the benefits of higher rents and resident retention rates.
Green Construction begins by selecting a sustainable site, taking into consideration natural recourses, energy and ecosystems. Energy efficiency and reduced energy consumption, wisely choose building materials, increase water efficiency with water conservation strategies and efficient appliances.
Today’s renters understand the importance of Green construction and the direct impact it has on their health an environment, just as property owners and managers understand what a huge selling point.
SWET Construction Group works with the design team to increase the value, lower operating costs, conserve energy, and reduce greenhouse emissions and waste.
Harvard School of Public Health Center for Health and the Global Environment list The 9 Foundations of Healthy Buildings
Ventilation
Meet or exceed local outdoor air ventilation rate guidelines to control indoor sources of odors, chemicals and carbon dioxide. Filter outdoor and recirculated air with a minimum removal efficiency of 75% for all particle size fractions including nano.
Air Quality
Choose supplies, office supplies, furnishings and building materials with low chemical emissions to limit sources of volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds.
Lighting and Views
During the day provide as much daylighting and/or high intensity blue-enriched lighting (480nm) as possible while maintaining visual comfort and avoiding glare. Get regular light breaks outside.
Noise
Protect against outdoor noises such as traffic, aircraft and construction. Control indoor sources of noise such as mechanical equipment, office equipment and machinery.
Water Quality
Meet the U.S. National Drinking Water Standards at point-of-use. Test water quality regularly. Install water purification system for removal of contaminants, if necessary. Ensure residual disinfectant levels are sufficient to control microbes, but not in excess. Prevent water stagnation in pipes.
Moisture
Conduct regular inspections of roofing, plumbing, ceilings and HVAC equipment to identify sources of moisture and potential condensations spots.
Safety and Security
Meet fire safety and carbon monoxide monitoring standards. Provide adequate lighting in common areas, stairwells, emergency egress points, parking lots and building entryways.
Thermal Health
Meet minimum thermal comfort standards for temperature and humidity and keep thermal conditions consistent throughout the day. Provide individual level thermal control, where possible. Survey the space and occupants regularly to identify zones that underperform.
Dust and Pests
Use high efficiency filter vacuums and clean surfaces regularly to limit dust and dirt accumulation, which are reservoirs for chemicals, allergens, and metals. For homes, take off shoes at the door to limit tracking in dirt.