LEED AP Building Design and Construction (BD+C) Practice Exam

What is the service life of the baseline building for a whole-building life-cycle assessment?

1. 40 years

2. 50 years

3. 60 years

4. 70 years

The correct answer is: 60 years

The service life of the baseline building for a whole-building life-cycle assessment is defined as 60 years. This figure is established in the context of LEED for BD+C, particularly in reference to the calculations involved in the life-cycle assessment process. It serves as a standard timeframe for evaluating the environmental impacts of a building throughout its lifespan, from construction through operation to eventual demolition or deconstruction. Using a 60-year service life allows for a comprehensive understanding of both the short-term and long-term implications of material and design choices, promoting sustainability in the building process. This metric aids in determining energy consumption, resource use, and overall environmental effects throughout the entire lifecycle of the building, ensuring that project teams account for durability and longevity in their assessment.