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WELL Performance Testing Organization
International WELL Building Institute
Well certifies buildings for health and wellness standards.
Key Strengths
- Globally recognized standard for health and wellness in the built environment
- Rigorous third-party on-site performance testing by accredited assessors
- Backed by peer-reviewed research linking building design to occupant health
- Covers seven core concepts: air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind
- Administered by IWBI, a mission-driven organization with broad industry partnerships
- Signals strong ESG and corporate wellness commitment to tenants and investors
Ideal For
This certification is best suited for organizations — including real estate developers, corporate occupiers, healthcare systems, and educational institutions — that want to demonstrate a verified commitment to occupant health and wellness in their buildings. It is particularly valuable for building owners and operators seeking third-party validation of their WELL Building Standard performance across air, water, light, nourishment, fitness, comfort, and mind concepts.
Target Audiences
Relevant Roles
Industries
Alignment & Recognition
Accrediting Body
Recognized By
- WELL Standard
Scope
Overview
The WELL Performance Testing Program, detailed at https://www.wellcertified.com/performance-verification/, evaluates buildings for certification under the WELL Building Standard. This program checks aspects like air and water quality, lighting, and overall environment to ensure they meet health and wellness standards. The WELL standard began in 2014 and is backed by research on how buildings affect occupants' health. Some notable organizations that have achieved WELL Certification include major corporations and institutions. Performance testing involves on-site evaluations by qualified assessors. Key partners in the program include renowned environmental and health organizations, reinforcing its credibility and reach in promoting healthier workspaces.
Requirements & Verification
Evidence Requirements
Applicants must submit documentation demonstrating compliance with applicable WELL features across the relevant building or space, including design and construction records, operational policies, and maintenance logs. On-site performance testing is conducted by a WELL Performance Testing Agent (WPTA) who verifies physical conditions such as air quality measurements, water quality samples, lighting levels, and acoustic conditions. Documentation review and spot-check testing are required as part of the verification process.
Prerequisites
Assessment Process
Performance testing is conducted by a WELL Performance Testing Agent (WPTA) — a third-party assessor accredited by GBCI. The process involves an on-site visit to the registered building or space, during which the assessor measures physical environmental conditions (e.g., air quality, water quality, light levels, acoustics) and reviews supporting documentation. Testing typically covers all applicable WELL features for the project's certification level (Silver, Gold, or Platinum). Results are submitted to IWBI for final review and certification determination. The timeline from registration to certification award typically spans several months depending on project readiness.
Renewal & Compliance
WELL Certification must be renewed every three years through a recertification process that includes updated documentation review and a new round of on-site performance testing. Organizations must demonstrate continued compliance with the WELL Building Standard features they originally certified under. Recertification fees apply and are based on the size and type of the certified space.
Accountability Model
Impact & Outcomes
Employer Recognition
Consider Alternatives If...
Organizations with limited budgets or smaller facilities may find the cost and complexity of WELL Performance Testing prohibitive compared to lighter-touch wellness frameworks. If your primary goal is energy efficiency or environmental sustainability rather than occupant health, LEED or BREEAM may be a more appropriate fit.
Alternative Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Certification
English
2014
Available
How to Display This Recognition
Certification Details
Assessment
Verification
Structure
Governance
Fee Structure
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Sources & Citations
Content on this page is AI-enriched from primary sources.
International WELL Building InstituteLast verified Mar 10, 2026