Retrofit Certification Optimizer

For existing buildings pursuing certification through renovation, operational improvement, or system upgrades. Describe what's already there — the optimizer adjusts feasibility scores based on actual building conditions and surfaces the highest-priority actions for each certification path.

Step 1 — Project data

Building type

Climate zone

Gross floor area (sqft)

Step 2 — Existing building conditions

These inputs adjust the feasibility score for each certification action. The more accurately you describe what's already there, the more realistic the path recommendations. If unknown, leave the default — the optimizer will flag it as a verify item.

Age and baseline

Year built (approximate)

Affects baseline code compliance, likely insulation levels, and structural connection assumptions.

Current energy code compliance

Determines how far the building needs to travel to meet certification energy thresholds.

ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager score (if known)

Score of 75+ qualifies for ENERGY STAR certification. Leave blank if not yet benchmarked.

Envelope

Wall insulation

Window type

Roof / attic insulation

Air sealing condition

Mechanical systems

HVAC system type

HVAC system age

Roof age

Structural system

Affects FORTIFIED retrofit feasibility — continuous load path connections vary significantly by structural type.

Step 3 — Target certifications (select up to 3)

Step 4 — Goal priorities

Financial ROI 50

Minimize upfront cost premium and maximize payback speed. Prioritizes low-cost, high-impact operational changes over capital upgrades.

Carbon reduction 50

Operational and embodied carbon. Envelope upgrades, HVAC electrification, on-site renewables, materials disclosure.

Operating cost reduction 50

Long-term utility savings. Envelope tightening, HVAC efficiency, LED lighting, smart controls, metering.

Occupant health + IEQ 50

Indoor air quality, ventilation, thermal comfort, daylighting, acoustic performance, low-VOC materials.

Insurance premium savings 0

FORTIFIED Roof retrofit is the primary driver — mandated discounts 25-55% in AL, LA, FL for re-roofing events. Most other certifications have no documented insurance savings.

Resilience (storm, wind, flood, fire) 0

FORTIFIED retrofit — continuous load path, opening protection, roof assembly upgrades. Critical in coastal and wildfire zones.

Points buffer: % above certification minimum. For point-based programs (LEED O+M), a buffer accounts for credits that may be denied during review. 15% is standard practice.