Achieving WELL Certification requires approval through two key processes:

1. WELL documentation review
2. WELL performance verification

Together, these confirm that a project meets the requirements of the WELL Building Standard™. While documentation review checks that design strategies, policies and protocols comply with WELL, Performance verification ensures that the space is actually performing as intended for human health.

Performance Verification is a unique and essential component of WELL. It validates that the environmental conditions that impact health and well-being are being met, and it brings third-party assurance and transparency to how a building operates. This step also helps identify potential gaps and opportunities for improvement. Watch this video or keep reading to learn more.

What is WELL performance verification?

WELL performance verification is an on-site, third-party assessment designed to confirm that your project meets WELL requirements. It includes three components:

• Performance testing
• On-site photographs
• Independent third-party review

During performance testing, a Performance Testing Agent collects real-world data across several environmental parameters within the WELL concepts of Air, Water, Light, Thermal Comfort, and Sound. These measurements help confirm compliance and also offer insights that can support healthier building operations.

Collecting on-site measurement data is a requirement for WELL Certification and the WELL Performance Rating. In addition, depending on the specific WELL strategies implemented by the project team, there may be on-site testing components in WELL at scale, the WELL for residential certification program, or the WELL Heath Safety Rating.

How is performance tested?

WELL feature parts that list “performance test” are verified through one or more of the following methods:

1. Laboratory analysis

Air or water samples are collected using specialized equipment and sent to a qualified laboratory. A Performance Testing Agent (PTAgent) evaluates the results and determines compliance or the need for retesting.

2. Direct-read instruments

These devices measure environmental parameters in real time (e.g., air quality, sound levels, light measurements). Results are analyzed directly by the PTAgent without requiring a lab.

3. Visual inspections or spot checks

A PTAgent documents certain on-site conditions through photographs where visual confirmation is required to verify the feature part.

Who is involved in the WELL performance verification process?

Performance Testing Agent (PTAgent)

Performance verification must be carried out by a PTAgent working for an approved Performance Testing Provider. Any testing conducted by individuals not approved through this program cannot count toward WELL Certification.

Project representative

A project representative must be available on site to:

• Provide access to all testing locations
• Assist the PTAgent as needed
• Coordinate with facility management (e.g., temporarily shutting off HVAC or sound masking equipment when required)

Coordination responsibilities

• All initial performance testing for WELL v1 projects must be coordinated by IWBI.
• For other project versions and test types, coordination may be done through IWBI or directly with an approved Performance Testing Provider, as shown below.

When does WELL performance verification take place?

Performance verification occurs after construction is complete and the project is at least 50% occupied.
(Exception: Core projects may complete testing prior to occupancy.)

For detailed occupancy requirements, please refer to the dedicated article on performance verification occupancy thresholds.

Although testing cannot occur until the required occupancy level is met, project teams may contact Performance Testing Providers at any point during the project to request quotes, plan logistics, or discuss anticipated testing needs.

There are several articles and resources available to support project teams through this process. 

Support Articles

• Timeline for performance testing from coordination to certification
• Consider optional pre-testing
• Preparing the site for testing
• WELL performance verification occupancy requirements
• Using the WELL PIP
• Scheduling performance testing

Resources

• Performance Testing Provider Directory
• IWBI PV Scheduling Request Form