How does indoor air quality testing contribute to BREEAM or LEED compliance?

Indoor air quality (IAQ) testing plays a pretty central role in both BREEAM and LEED. It provides measurable evidence that a building is safe and comfortable for occupants.

Typically, this involves testing for things like dust (particulate matter), VOCs (chemicals released from materials), and carbon dioxide levels. These results are then compared against defined limits within the certification scheme.

In BREEAM, for example, post-construction IAQ testing can contribute to credits under the health and wellbeing category. It essentially demonstrates that the building performs as intended, not just on paper.

It’s one of those areas where you can’t really guess or assume compliance—you need actual data to prove it.