LEED for Existing Buildings is an operational performance rating system for existing buildings; and provides standards and prerequisites for construction and site protection for building upgrades.

Due to the building upgrade component of EB, there is sometimes confusion on whether EB or NC is the most appropriate rating system for a project, since NC also applies to major renovation. A general guideline can be used: if the renovations are worth at least 50% of the building’s value and impact the building envelope, NC is the most appropriate rating system. In other cases, EB should be applied to existing buildings.

LEED^® Canada for Existing Buildings is anticipated to launch in 2009. While this is underway, Canadian projects are encouraged to register directly with the USGBC.