Building or operating? Find the perfect fit.
Flexible rating systems match any project to the SEAM Activities that fit it best. Based on project type and owner role, they keep the process focused, relevant, and project-specific.
How it works
A system for any project in the built environment
Not every project is the same, and not every owner plays the same role. SEAM’s rating systems are organized by project types, like construction and renovation, or ongoing operations, and owner role, so your certification framework includes only the activities relevant to your specific context.
Our rating systems share the same four pillars, Social Impact, Social Responsibility, Social Justice, and Social Accountability, and the same Bronze-through-Platinum certification levels. What changes is the lens.
01 — For the Design and Construction Phase Buildings + Interiors
Covers the spectrum of social equity considerations in design and construction: from understanding your social impact before breaking ground, to your governance practices, the equity of your procurement decisions, and the human rights standards that apply to everyone involved in building it.
60+ measurable credits
For Developers, owner occupiers, designers
02 — For Existing Building Operations Operations + Maintenance
Measures how operations reflect a consistent commitment to the people your building serves: through responsible governance, meaningful community engagement, fair labor standards, and health and safety practices that extend to occupants and neighbors alike.
50+ measurable credits
For Property managers, facility teams, building operators
Social Impact
Identify and engage who your project affects and measure whether your efforts are working.
Social Responsibility
Build equity into how your organization operates through governance, community engagement, and investments.
Social Justice
Advance equity across procurement, the workplace, the community, and in access to capital.
Social Accountability
Uphold human rights across the supply chain, support safe working conditions, and protect the health of those your project touches.
Bronze
Foundational commitment. Baseline requirements met across all pillars.
Silver
Meaningful progress with documented outcomes beyond baseline.
Gold
Leadership in equitable practice with innovative approaches.
Platinum
Industry benchmark. Transformative outcomes across every category.
Ready to find the right path for your project?
Whether you’re certifying a new building or improving operations at an existing one, there’s a path for you.