ABOUT THE GAPScore TEST

Our test is a lot like a school placement test. There is no pass or fail. Instead, we use a system that index a home with a score between one and 100. A low GAPScore rating means that the dwelling uses too many resources and that the current owners have not followed common green practices, nor incorporated any green elements into the design of their home over the years. A high GAPScore rating means that a home is extremely energy efficient and utilizes earth-friendly appliances, heating and cooling systems, water management as well as sustainable building materials.

The Rise of the "Green" Dwelling

Environmental factors and energy concerns have influenced home design since the construction of the first mud hut. Today, we deal with the same environmental challenges that our forebears did. The wind steals our home's heat. The sun bakes it. Water invades it. Rot and erosion is a constant battle. Architects have always respected the power of the environment and its impact our dwellings.

Why Green Is More Important Than Ever Before

As the world's population expands and people build more homes, they use more of the earth's rapidly diminishing resources and produce more pollutants and greenhouse gases.

But there's hope on the horizon. Our homes can live in harmony with the planet. In fact, some of the world's more visionary architects have been designing "green" homes all along.

Here's the good news: We can dramatically reduce our impact on the environment by adopting energy-efficient, environmentally friendly home renovation and improvement techniques.

Why "Being Green" is Market Savvy

Today, we know a lot more about what makes a home green. Real estate professionals are seeing a rise in the demand for energy-efficient homes — and the marketplace is changing to reflect this trend.

It's true that newer homes may have a higher GAPScore because the growing market for greener dwellings is changing the way that homes are being built. But an older house can also be a "green" house. Visionary architects have created entire neighborhoods filled with energy efficient homes over the years. So a home, no matter how old, can have design elements that are "green."

Even houses that aren't green by design can be made greener by a conscientious owner who follows commonly accepted "green guidelines."

How is GAPS different from other Green Rating Systems?

Many municipalities — including Chicago, Illinois and Austin, Texas — have created Green Home programs using the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building rating system. LEED was established to promote design and construction practices that enhance profitability, minimize a building's impact on the environment and enhance occupant health and well-being. In 2008, The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) launched NAHB Green, an education, certification and verification program designed to promote sustainable, environmentally friendly practices in residential construction.

But both of these green rating systems are designed to promote green practices in new construction. GAPScore is the only green rating system designed specifically for existing homes.

GAPScore is also uniquely designed to evaluate existing "hard to change" features in residential properties. Many of these existing features have the potential to be greener with the appropriate modifications. GAPScore can guide you to industry professionals for further knowledge and assistance.

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What kind of questions will I encounter on the GAPScore test?

Here's an example: Is there a flat roof with constant, direct sunlight? If the answer is yes, a solar panel or green roof installation is a possibility. This "green potential" gives you a higher GAPScore.

What other standards does the GAPScore test employ to measure a home's green score?

The test also measures a home's sustainability — the length of time that the materials used to build the home will last. If the home is constructed with durable, long-lasting materials, then the resources that might otherwise be needed to replace these materials can be conserved. That's good for the planet because it saves energy and resources.

Air quality, moisture content management and the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) also affect a home's GAPScore. Environmentally friendly flooring materials and finishes enhance a home's GAPScore.

Will a GAPScore rating really enhance a home's value in the marketplace?

Yes. Testing a residential property so that you can promote its greener traits, identify and install green upgrades and implement greener home maintenance practices can significantly enhance a home's marketability and value.

But the GAPScore test does more than simply rate residential properties: It also educates homeowners and realtors about the steps that they can take to create green living spaces.

Each GAPScore test question is accompanied by a "HINTS" action button that links you to a wealth of information about green home practices. We recommend that you use this feature to gain a better understanding of the steps that you can take to enhance the green status of a residential property.

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About GAPScore Results

Green Assessment Potential Score Test Results
0 to 25
YELLOW

Needs Work 		26 to 45
BLUE

Below Standard 		46 to 70
LIGHT GREEN

Above Average 		71 to 100
DARK GREEN

Exceptional

YELLOW (A GAPScore of 0 to 25 points: Needs Work)
The home lacks the fundamental aspects of green home design and maintenance. It is not energy efficient or environmentally friendly. The owners have not utilized green practices when remodeling, making repairs or carrying out the day-to-day maintenance of the home.

A Yellow GAPScore between 20 and 25: The property still has green potential.

A Yellow GAPScore below 20: Several hard-to-change aspects of the property are present and the owners have not implemented simple green upgrades. The property needs green upgrades now.

BLUE (A GAPScore of 26 to 45 points: Below Standard)
Unfortunately a score below 35, this is how the "average built" residential property scores. The property still needs green upgrades now.

A Blue GAPScore above 35: the property's green potential is excellent if the home is upgraded with the appropriate systems and equipment.

LIGHT GREEN (A GAPScore of 46 to 70 points: Above Average)
The home has great green potential. Technologies for increased environmental efficiency have been incorporated into the initial home design or implemented during subsequent renovations.

A Light Green GAPScore above 60: The property has a few hard-to-change traits that may potentially not be addressed without rebuilding. Even though your "light", you are still considered in "green" standings.

DARK GREEN (A GAPScore of 71 to 100 points: Exceptional)
The property is well designed and has been constructed or renovated with building techniques and materials that are well within "green parameters." If every home were like this one, the world would be a greener, cleaner place.

Remember, every home has green potential. But it's up to you to make it happen. Let's work together to create a greener future, when energy efficient, environmentally friendly homes will be the norm — instead of the exception!

Getting ready to sell a home?
Promote its eco-friendliness by including the home's GAPScore on the MLS!

Interested in becoming a GAPScore Verifier?

To do so, you must be an individual with a Realty or Home Inspection Service Provider and have current error and omission insurance. The only tools required are a flashlight and a screwdriver. Training for a Verifier is provided by a GAPScore Coach on an individual basis.

Request a GAPScore Coach or Request a Verifier through our contact form.

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