Related Programs

Green Home Certification Programs

An inspector in a hard hat completes an outdoors inspection

A “green home” is one designed and built with sustainability in mind. Green homes offer many benefits for homebuilders, homeowners, and the environment, from responsible land development to the efficient use of energy, water, and building supplies. 

Several certification programs — led by Federal agencies, nonprofits, and others — recognize homes and apartments constructed with green building practices.

Federal certification programs

These certifications from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) address the most critical areas of green home building.

ENERGY STAR: Enjoy a more energy-efficient, comfortable, & durable home.

ENERGY STAR certified homes and apartments are independently verified to meet comprehensive energy-efficiency requirements set by the EPA. They are designed to be at least 10% more efficient than homes built to code. And, the same features that drive energy savings also result in a more comfortable and durable home.

ENERGY STAR NextGen: Level-up with advanced electric technologies.

The EPA’s ENERGY STAR NextGen certification recognizes homes and apartments that are both highly energy efficient and equipped with leading-edge, efficient electric technologies, such as heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, electric cooking appliances, and electric vehicle charging capabilities.

Indoor airPLUS: Maximize indoor air quality.

The EPA's Indoor airPLUS program addresses the indoor environment component of green building, with required construction practices and product specifications designed to minimize exposure to airborne pollutants and contaminants.

WaterSense: Use water efficiently.

The EPA's WaterSense ® program ensures that homes use at least 25% less water than average. WaterSense homes are inspected and certified to meet both indoor and outdoor water efficiency requirements.

Zero Energy Ready Homes: Zero out your energy bills.

DOE's Zero Energy Ready Homes (ZERH) program builds on the comprehensive building science requirements of EPA's ENERGY STAR and Indoor airPLUS programs, with additional energy-saving requirements that result in homes that are 40% to 50% more energy-efficient than typical new construction.

Other green building programs

For those who want to go further, look to one of the whole-home green certification programs in the market. Listed below are some of the most widely recognized and nationally available programs, but there may be additional programs in your region or local area. (Note that each program takes a slightly different approach to green, and the rigor of certification requirements can vary. Some programs also offer multiple levels of certification to reward higher levels of achievement.)