BREEAM

Term from Architecture industry explained for recruiters

BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is a well-known system for rating how environmentally friendly buildings are. Think of it like a report card for buildings that measures things like energy use, health of occupants, and environmental impact. When architects or construction professionals mention BREEAM on their resume, it means they know how to design or assess buildings to meet these green standards. It's similar to other systems like LEED (used mainly in America) or Green Star (used in Australia). Having BREEAM knowledge is increasingly important as more clients want buildings that are environmentally responsible and energy-efficient.

Examples in Resumes

Achieved BREEAM Excellent rating for commercial office development project

Certified BREEAM Assessor responsible for evaluating sustainable building designs

Implemented BREEAM standards in residential development achieving Very Good certification

Typical job title: "BREEAM Assessors"

Also try searching for:

Sustainability Consultant Environmental Design Consultant BREEAM Assessor Green Building Consultant Sustainable Design Specialist Environmental Building Assessor Sustainability Manager

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you manage a large-scale BREEAM assessment project with multiple stakeholders?

Expected Answer: Should discuss coordination between designers, contractors, and clients, explain how to track documentation, and demonstrate experience in managing complex certification processes while meeting project deadlines.

Q: What strategies would you recommend to achieve BREEAM Outstanding rating cost-effectively?

Expected Answer: Should explain practical approaches to achieving high scores, balancing cost with environmental benefits, and demonstrate knowledge of which credits offer the best value for investment.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Can you explain the main differences between BREEAM assessment types?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain different schemes like New Construction, Refurbishment, In-Use, and when each is appropriate to use.

Q: How do you ensure a project stays on track for its target BREEAM rating?

Expected Answer: Should discuss regular reviews, documentation management, and communication with project team members to ensure requirements are being met throughout the process.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the main categories assessed in BREEAM?

Expected Answer: Should list and briefly explain main categories like Energy, Water, Health & Wellbeing, Transport, Materials, etc., showing basic understanding of what each covers.

Q: What are the different BREEAM rating levels?

Expected Answer: Should know the five ratings: Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent, and Outstanding, and the basic score requirements for each level.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of BREEAM assessment process
  • Knowledge of environmental building standards
  • Ability to collect and organize assessment evidence
  • Understanding of sustainable construction principles

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Full BREEAM assessor qualification
  • Experience managing complete assessments
  • Knowledge of multiple building types
  • Understanding of cost implications

Senior (5+ years)

  • Advanced BREEAM assessment experience
  • Project management of large developments
  • Strategic sustainability consulting
  • Team leadership and mentoring

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No formal BREEAM training or qualifications
  • Limited understanding of building systems
  • No practical assessment experience
  • Poor knowledge of current environmental regulations

Related Terms