WELL certification is a global standard for buildings that emphasizes creating environments that support health, wellbeing, and productivity. This certification goes beyond sustainability by focusing specifically on occupant wellness through measurable aspects such as air quality, water, lighting, thermal comfort, and sound. These factors, when managed well, can greatly improve the quality of indoor spaces, setting a new benchmark for what a modern workspace can provide.
How to Achieve WELL Certification
Securing WELL certification involves several detailed steps and collaboration with WELL-accredited professionals who are well-versed in the requirements. The process starts with a thorough assessment to define wellness goals that align with WELL standards and the specific needs of the building and its occupants. This stage includes setting parameters for environmental controls, such as implementing HVAC systems that ensure high air quality and selecting materials that reduce pollutants within the building.
Following the assessment, the building undergoes rigorous adjustments and installations to meet certification standards. Measures might include enhancing water filtration systems, designing optimized lighting systems that follow circadian rhythms, and using materials that minimize off-gassing. Once implemented, a certified WELL assessor reviews the building’s documented progress, performing a final inspection to confirm the standards are met. This verification ensures that the building truly provides a wellness-centered environment for its users.
Boosting Asset Value with WELL Certification
Achieving WELL certification doesn’t just benefit occupants; it significantly increases the building’s asset value. There is a rising demand for wellness-focused spaces, with businesses recognizing the impact of a healthy work environment on productivity, employee satisfaction, and retention. Certified WELL buildings can command premium rental rates and often see higher occupancy rates as they attract quality tenants seeking wellness-oriented offices.
Furthermore, WELL-certified buildings benefit from strong positioning in a competitive market, appealing to organizations prioritizing environmental and social governance (ESG) in their property investments. The initial investment in wellness features—like water filtration and optimized lighting systems—is offset by the long-term increase in asset value, positioning WELL-certified buildings as valuable assets in any real estate portfolio.
Why WELL Certification Matters
Investing in WELL certification is more than just meeting market demand—it establishes the building as a leader in modern workspace standards. As businesses increasingly focus on employee wellbeing and corporate social responsibility, the presence of WELL certification can be a deciding factor in choosing a building. For employers, WELL-certified environments contribute to reduced absenteeism and increased productivity, making it a valuable element in their own investment in workforce health.
The WELL Building Standard is designed to create spaces where people feel and perform their best, and WELL certification signals to tenants and investors alike that the building supports these goals. The certification serves as a guarantee of a superior workplace environment, which not only benefits employees but also strengthens the building’s appeal and long-term relevance.
“WELL certification is more than a building standard; it’s a commitment to enhancing both asset value and occupant wellness, setting the stage for a healthier, more productive future.”
R.B
Bringing It All Together
WELL certification offers a valuable opportunity for office building owners to differentiate their properties by emphasizing occupant health and wellbeing. Through strategic investments in wellness standards, properties can achieve a substantial boost in asset value and attract high-caliber tenants committed to modern workspaces that foster productivity and health. WELL-certified buildings are more than a trend—they are a forward-thinking choice for real estate investors seeking sustainable, high-value assets aligned with the future of work and wellness.
