Social equity certification for the built environment
SEAM Certification provides a clear, actionable framework to integrate equitable practices and generate positive impact in real estate projects.
what is SEAM Certification?
SEAM Certification embeds social equity into the core of real estate projects, driving systemic change in design, construction, and operation.
SEAM transforms leading human rights and social science research into a practical, scalable certification for the built environment—enabling commercial real estate professionals to embed equity into project systems, improve outcomes for people impacted by a development, and demonstrate meaningful, measurable value across both new and existing properties.
The Social Equity Assessment Method (SEAM) provides a comprehensive framework that guides projects in applying responsible and inclusive practices at every stage of their lifecycle. SEAM transforms these principles into actionable strategies, integrating them into the design, construction, and operation of commercial real estate projects.
SEAM serves as a roadmap for developing a social sustainability strategy within projects. This roadmap includes creating an action plan and supporting its implementation, prioritizing inclusive practices across all phases of the project’s development and operation.
SEAM’s methodology helps projects identify opportunities for improvement and implement effective solutions that align with social equity goals. By providing clear, actionable guidance, SEAM promotes systemic change that results in more equitable outcomes for the project, the surrounding community, and within the project supply chain.
how it works
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similar scorecard format to LEED and WELL
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metrics tied to international standards for social sustainability
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a SEAM Accredited Professional (AP) leads the process for silver and above
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projects earn one of four certification levels: bronze, silver, gold, or platinum
SEAM Standard
The SEAM Standard v1 is the culmination of six years of extensive research and development. It has been rigorously reviewed by experts across the fields of social science and multiple sectors within the commercial real estate industry. The objective is to develop a comprehensive standard charting the criteria for assessing equity and social sustainability within the commercial real estate sector.
SEAM is your roadmap
SEAM is a roadmap for developing socially sustainable real estate projects that measurably increase equity. The social equity assessment method is based on four themes of social sustainability and rated by 8 concepts comprising 21 objectives that affect good outcomes for individuals, communities, and the world. We create a more connected, inclusive, and equitable planet for every project certified.
rating systems
SEAM Certification is flexible for all project types, with options for customizing how social sustainability goals are approached and realized
Not all SEAM Activities are universally applicable to every project, as their relevance depends on the type of project and the Owner's role. Project types can be construction projects or operating/existing assets. The Owner role is separated into the role of a Developer and the role of an Occupier. Rating systems are combinations of project type and Owner role. They aim to ensure that Owners have a Rating system that includes only the relevant Activities for the application of the SEAM Standard to their project. SEAM v1 is organized into 5 Rating Systems, which are: Buildings + Interiors (B+I): Developer Includes construction projects where a building or interior is undergoing ground-up starting from raw, undeveloped land, tear-down of an existing structure, starting from a previously developed site ground, or major renovations of an existing building as the Developer, where the Owner assumes Developer responsibilities including project ownership, vision establishment, financing procurement, construction supervision, landlord duties, and tenant leasing management. Buildings + Interiors (B+I): Occupier For construction projects of an existing building or space where the Owner is either a Tenant or Property Owner that has no Landlord duties or control over Tenant leasing. Operations + Maintenance (O+M): Developer For projects that involve the ongoing operations and maintenance of a building or space that's already constructed, where the Owner is the entity that owns the building or space and oversees its long-term operations, maintenance, and acts as Landlord. Operations + Maintenance (O+M): Occupier For projects that involve the ongoing operations and maintenance of a building or space that's already constructed, where the Owner is either a Tenant or property owner with no Landlord duties or control over Tenant leasing. Community Development (CD) – this Rating System is TBD
return on investment
"The path of purpose leads to the land of profits."
--Alex Edmans, London School of Business, Author of "Grow the Pie: How Great Companies Deliver Both Purpose and Profit"
SEAM is not only the right thing to do, it is a wise business decision. The path to long-term profits lies in embedding purposeful practices into a business's core strategy. Companies that genuinely commit to addressing social impact attract top talent, build strong customer loyalty, and foster innovation and resilience.
By prioritizing value creation for all stakeholders—employees, customers, suppliers, communities, and the environment—businesses cultivate trust and loyalty, leading to enduring profitability and a positive societal impact. This approach creates organizations that effectively grow their value in ways that shareholders, customers, and employees love.
Thank You to Our Founding Sponsors + Donors
Founding sponsors + donors are an exclusive group of organizations that believe in our bold vision and financially support our ability to carry out the vision of leveraging real estate to create a positive social impact in the world.