It consists of a standard, an easy-to-use assessment methodology and a 3rd party certification process that provides a clear and credible route map to improving sustainability.

BREEAM In-Use has been developed to encourage better building management and targeted investment in existing building stock.

The BREEAM-In Use scheme enables building managers to self-evaluate the performance of their building(s) using the online BREEAM In-Use tool. Training is provided to license BREEAM In-Use Auditors to verify the building manager's self assessment and provide a certificate.

BREEAM In-Use assessment differs from the established BREEAM schemes in that BREEAM assessors undertake an assessment of new buildings and submit the data to BRE Global to review and issue a certificate. Where as for BREEAM In-Use the Auditor is trained to verify the data obtained by the building manager and issue the certificate themselves.

The assessment tool will enable building managers to see the impact of their building and existing systems as well as the potential impact of any proposed changes.

BREEAM In-Use is designed to:

• Reduce operational costs
• Enhance the value and marketability of property assets
• Give a transparent platform for negotiating building improvements with landlords and owners
• Provide a route to compliance with environmental legislation and standards, such as energy labelling and ISO 14001
• Give greater engagement with staff in implementing sustainable business practices
• Provide opportunities to improve staff satisfaction with the working environment with the potential for significant improvements in productivity
• Demonstrate your commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
• Improve organisational effectiveness
• Provide a genuine badge of proven sustainability

The environmental performance of an organisation's built assets is a key factor in its sustainability credentials and carbon footprint. Operating a building also represents a major cost - with soaring energy prices and the current gloomy economic outlook, cutting energy, water, waste and other such costs can be a relatively easy way of improving profitability