A performance-based and non-prescriptive approach fostering innovation (no list of materials or systems)

HQE building certification is based on achieving performance goals that reflect the objectives set by stakeholders for a particular project. In order for an operation to be certified, it must satisfy a number of fundamental prerequisites and justify performances beyond its current practice.
Stakeholders should also make a commitment to respect local regulations wherever they exist (accessibility, seismic standards, etc.).

The "profile" system

As part of the multi-criteria approach to the certified HQE initiative, different performance levels have been defined beyond the basic prerequisites.
To be certified, a project must teach the basic prerequisites (making a commitment to complying with local regulations, etc.)
Certivéa does not prescribe a solution. Thanks to the performance-based approach, depending on its context, stakeholders can justify the means and solutions which are implemented to achieve the performance targets set for each project.
As part of the auditing process, the auditor verifies the assessments made during the different phases of the project and, through the former's comments, reassures or alerts the project stakeholders concerning their ability to achieve their goals.

Principles which can be adapted to all countries, cultures and climate zones, using equivalence principles

While the HQE building certification may be international, it is nonetheless adapted to local concerns.
The international technical scheme for environmental performance of service buildings incorporates both requirements referring to best practices and international regulations, and to local levels of performance demonstrated by the certification applicant, using a system called "equivalence principle."
This system can locally adapt all or a part of the certification requirements without degrading the overall level. Indeed, there are a number of environmental "safeguards" to be respected.