LEED Residential v4.1 has become more stringent than earlier versions of LEED for Homes, and the calculations have become relatively complicated. (See the LEED credit language for more detail.) Construction companies used to get away with providing basic paper reports that showed an overall percent diverted. In this updated version, the facility where the material is recycled must be certified by the Recycling Certification Institute (or approved equivalent). In the US, you can find a certified facility here. In reality, most home construction and renovation projects will not be LEED-certified. So, the takeaway is to make sure your construction waste company recycles its waste.

The second LEED credit that addresses waste reduction is called "Material-Efficient Framing." The idea here is to use advanced framing techniques to reduce the use of unnecessary framing materials. If you have hired a contractor to build or renovate your house and aren't familiar with standard framing, this can be a way to reduce your overall footprint and save money.

There is one prerequisite under "Durability Management" with two parts: first, meet the ENERGY STAR for Homes, Version 3, Water Management System Builder Requirements. This comprehensive list includes:

• That water should flow away (not towards) the home through sloped patios/decks/driveways.
• Making sure there is flashing around all windows and doors.
• That drain tile is installed around the basement and crawlspace walls. 
• A requirement that wall-to-wall carpeting not be installed within 2 ½ feet of showers, tubs, or toilets. 

The second part requires installing indoor moisture control measures such as water-resistant flooring in the kitchen, bathroom, entryway, and laundry areas. That means that for those high-use areas likely to get wet, don't install carpet or flooring materials that would absorb water, like cork. This prerequisite is full of small but essential details to keep your home free of mold and rot; see the credit language for a complete list.

After the prerequisite, a project can earn one point by inspecting and verifying that the prerequisite, as outlined above, was met. A project can earn another point by ensuring that each exterior door is protected by an overhang or awning. This feature must extend at least two feet beyond the outer wall, and the width should extend at least one foot past the exterior door. (This is also very helpful for package delivery and visitors waiting at the door in the rain!)

The third and final point addresses moisture control: wrap insulation around all cold water pipes in unconditioned spaces to reduce unwanted condensation and drips.