Every development is different by way of unit type, location and price; therefore, Green commitment is not based on a rigid set of rules. Each home must, at a minimum, be Energy Star certified by a third party before being eligible to receive Green Commitment Certification. 

These following specifications are examples of what a Green Commitment Certified home/project may contain, above and beyond Energy Star.
Site selection

• Development of underutilized or blighted property
• Proximity to public transportation
• Proximity to shopping and entertainment
• Ability to have high density with usable open space
• Availability of existing natural amenities i.e. waterways and parks
• Availability of existing utilities and city infrastructure

Site Development

• Maximizing density while maintaining usable open space for the community
• Use of solar power for site lighting
• Restoration of wetlands and/or woodlands
• Landscaping requirements exceed the local minimums and use indigenous vegetation and trees
• Storm water treatment with the use of compact BMP’s like Filterra to allow for usable open space in lieu of wet retention ponds
• Community gardens
• Use of well or rain water for open space irrigation
• Use of pervious paving when possible
• Amenities that do not require maintenance and copious energy use.
• Amenities that encourage community interaction.
• Protection of existing natural amenities and resources i.e. trees and watershed
• Building placement should consider southern exposure and exiting available shade as well as natural vistas and site lines.

Construction

• Thermal and moisture barriers in slab or foundation
• All sills should be properly sealed
• Use of engineered lumber
• Use of advance framing techniques
• Proper construction of building envelope
• Use of advanced insulation i.e. cellulose or spray foam
• All construction joints must be adequately sealed
• Increase attic insulation
• Use of solar or geothermal energy
• Conditioned attic space
• Sealed ducts
• HVAC system should be properly sized for square footage and ceiling height
• Programmable thermostats
• High efficiency windows
• Low VOC paints
• Low VOC flooring
• Use of overhangs and soffits for shade
• Low flow toilets and showers
• Compact fluorescent bulbs
• Use of exterior materials with longevity
• Use of universal design principles