If you’re considering pursuing Mostadam certification for your building project, one of the key questions you might have is: How long does the Mostadam certification process take? The timeline for Mostadam certification can vary depending on several factors, including the type of certification being pursued, the size and complexity of the project, and how prepared the project team is for the submission process.
Understanding the Mostadam Certification Types
Mostadam offers two main certification types—Design + Construction (D+C) and Operation + Existing (O+E). D+C is geared towards new buildings, evaluating sustainability measures incorporated during the design and construction phases. O+E certification, on the other hand, applies to existing buildings and focuses on their operational performance, particularly in terms of energy, water, and waste management. Each of these certifications has different timelines and requirements that can impact the overall duration of the process.
Design + Construction (D+C) Certification Timeline
For Mostadam D+C certification, the process is divided into two key submissions: design and construction. After registering the project and appointing a Mostadam Accredited Professional (AP), the project team submits documentation following the completion of detailed design, which is then reviewed for a Design Rating certificate. This process typically takes around 1 to 2 months, depending on the completeness of the documentation and the review time.
Once the construction phase is completed, a second submission is made for the Construction Rating certificate. The review and approval process for this stage may take an additional 1 to 2 months. Therefore, the total timeline for a D+C certification from start to finish can range from 3 to 6 months, not including the actual construction time.
Operation + Existing (O+E) Certification Timeline
The O+E certification process is often more time-intensive due to the requirement for performance monitoring. Mostadam mandates that a building must be operational for a minimum of 1 to 2 years with a minimum occupancy of 75% before applying for O+E certification. During this monitoring period, data on energy consumption, water usage, and waste generation must be recorded and documented monthly. This data is essential for demonstrating the building’s performance and for achieving the necessary credits for certification.
Once the monitoring period is complete, the submission process involves providing the gathered performance data and other required documentation. The review process for this submission typically takes 1 to 3 months, depending on the project size and documentation quality.
Factors Affecting the Timeline
Several factors can influence the overall duration of the Mostadam certification process. These include the preparedness of the project team, the completeness and accuracy of the submitted documents, and any revisions requested by the Mostadam Assessor. Efficient communication with the Mostadam Accredited Professional can help streamline the process, reducing potential delays.
In conclusion, the Mostadam certification process can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months for D+C projects and 1 to 3 years for O+E certification, depending largely on the project’s scope and readiness. With a clear understanding of the process and good planning, project teams can ensure a smoother journey toward achieving their sustainability goals.