The City of Indianapolis' Department of Metropolitan Development has developed the HOME Green Building Guidelines as a resource for developers, home builders, and homeowners. The focus of the program is on three main areas of green building: energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and homeowner education. The guidelines are being developed in a phase approach and are compatible with LEED for Homes, EPA Energy Star, and the National Association of Home Builders National Green Buildings Guidelines.

The approach of the guidelines is to use prescriptive measures rather than performance measures. This means that the guidelines state strategies and objectives, rather than mandate performance criteria. For example, the guidelines state that energy-efficient HVAC equipment and window systems be utilized, rather than mandating that the home achieve a 25% igy efficiency. This approach was chosen to eliminate testing costs while still delivering the desired outcomes. The guidelines were written with a focus on new construction but may be applicable to renovations or rehab projects.

The format of the guidelines is developed in a tiered approach. The standard practice, which is conventional home building practices, is the baseline for comparing the objectives and outcomes of the green guidelines. Tier I improvements are strategies that range from $3,500 to $4,500 in increased incremental cost. Tier II improvements range from $4,500 to $6,000 in incremental cost. Renovation/retrofit projects are generally more expensive when making improvements.

The Green Initiative pilot program commenced in 2007 to evaluate and further refine the Green guidelines. Local Community Development Corporations became eager to participate in the Green Initiative program and two projects were selected. Two more were selected in 2008, and as many as eleven are expected to be completed in 2009.

A Community Guide to Green Affordable Housing in Indianapolis (PDF)

GreenHome Guidelines Best Practices Summary (PDF)