Use a total-quality management program
Well built houses last longer.
Quality construction results in a durable, comfortable house with lower maintenance and operating costs. Developers and contractors who have invested in comprehensive quality-improvement programs have made an investment in the standards of their work. Their efforts will be evident in the result. Teamwork is key. Companies that are committed to ongoing quality improvement may also be more amenable than others to unconventional green approaches.
Green points
LEED for HomesLeadership in Energy and Environmental Design. LEED for Homes is the residential green building program from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). While this program is primarily designed for and applicable to new home projects, major gut rehabs can qualify. : Durability planning is a prerequisite; 3 points for third-party durability management verification (ID 2).
Learn more in the Green Building Encyclopedia
