Green construction is becoming a widespread practice in the industry and for good reason. It aims to eliminate the negative effects of design, construction, and other such operations on the environment. In addition, green construction also seeks to promote sustainability and create structures that have a positive impact on the environment.

For a holistic approach to green construction, construction companies must not only employ eco-friendly practices in their operations but also look at green construction contractors who can further improve the sustainability of the construction project.

Looking for a good contractor is difficult, but adding another criterion makes it even more challenging. Here are some ways to screen for green construction contractors.

1. Examine the contractors’ previous work

As going green became mainstream across several industries, so did using it for marketing purposes. Advertising eco-friendly practices is not bad per se. However, not doing anything green and eco-friendly to back it up is a bad and unethical practice. There will be a lot of contractors who will say they are committed to the ideals of green construction but don’t really practice what they say. It may be just another buzzword they use to attract potential clients.

This is why it’s important to check the contractor’s previous work. Companies may check with past clients or ask the potential contractor for their previous projects and see if they are indeed devoted to green construction. Online reviews from customers are also great sources of information to judge whether the contractor is worth hiring.

2. Inquire if they have green certifications

There are no state licenses specific to green construction contractors. However, there are several organizations from the private sector that offer a variety of certifications.

Certifications that contractors can get include the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, which is currently the industry standard for green construction. Other certifications include the Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star program, the Associated Builders and Contractors’ ABC Green Contractor Certification, and the National Association of Home Builders’ Certified Green Professionals.

When screening for green construction contractors, it is best practice to hire builders who are green certified. Ask if they already have a green construction certification or are looking to get one in the near future.

3. Ask if they are updated on the latest in green construction

A green certification means that the contractor understands eco-friendly practices well enough and applies them to their business. However, it only refers to that specific point in time when they passed the certification requirements. Is the contractor updated on the latest green construction techniques and practices?

Eco-friendly techniques change in just a short time. A contractor committed to the green ideal will devote time to get updated on the current best practices. Ask when they last took a class or attended a seminar on green construction to gauge if they are indeed up to date. If they have a certification, you may also inquire when their certification was renewed.

4. Talk about their green approach to the project

Finding a green construction contractor is tough, but locating one is just the first step in the process. They should also be able to contribute towards making the construction project green. Consider that a project is a team approach. Scattering eco-friendly components without seeing the bigger picture will not make a truly green structure.

Talk to the contractor about their green solutions to the construction project. An experienced contractor should be able to identify areas that can be taken advantage of or sections that may need improvement. They should also be able to discuss specific techniques and methods (e.g. reducing mold and allergens, preventing infestations, saving energy, etc.) and provide specific estimates.

All construction project owners, contractors, and suppliers have a huge responsibility to the environment. Hiring green construction contractors is just one of the many steps and processes that can be followed to reduce the impact of the industry and improve sustainability. Looking for green partners is tough, but for the sake of the environment, the effort is well worth it.