First set of multifamily properties achieve BREEAM certification in the U.S.

WashREIT says it has achieved certification on eight multifamily assets under BREEAM’s In-Use certification standard.

This is a significant milestone for both WashREIT and BREEAM, as it signifies the first set of multifamily assets to receive BREEAM certification in the U.S. WashREIT acquired the properties in 2019. They include a total of 2,390 units, spanning locations across Virginia and Maryland.

The company used BREEAM certification to bring these assets—most of which were built more than 30 years ago—to its sustainable standard. Half the properties certified earned a rating of “Very Good.”

“We’re focused on existing Class B assets, and historically, this asset class has lacked in sustainability investments. But residents and investors alike care about sustainability,” said Paul McDermott, president and CEO of WashREIT, in a news release. “As we work with BREEAM, our goal is to create opportunities for the industry and other operators to also find ways to invest in sustainable improvements and achieve ESG certifications for their assets.”

Across the country, multifamily rents have skyrocketed. Year-over-year rents are up by double digits in nine of the top 30 markets, while national YoY rent growth is up 6.3%. Emerging from the pandemic, a perfect storm of migration, enhanced government stimulus and a hot housing market, among other factors, has enabled this extremely strong growth.