ModeScore Resources

ActiveScore is the only globally recognized certification focused exclusively on assessing and improving active travel facilities within real estate assets.

With over 80 million square feet certified worldwide, ActiveScore helps real estate owners and developers achieve their sustainability goals and deepen their commitment to travel options that support healthier outcomes for people and the planet.

ModeScore is the only globally recognised certification focused exclusively on helping real estate assets maximise their connectivity by supporting the full range of sustainable mobility options.

It builds on ActiveScore’s criteria for in-house active travel facilities, while taking a broader view of a building’s surrounding context, ensuring all forms of active and sustainable travel, from walking and transit to scootering and EVs, are supported.

ModeScore launched in 2024 in response to growing demand for a certification that reflects the full spectrum of sustainable mobility options.

➔ More affordable: Our starting certification price is often a fraction of other systems, and without the need for third-party consultants, overall costs remain comparably low.

➔ More efficient: In as little as 5 weeks, we’re able to deliver a formal certification.

➔ Locally tailored: We don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we benchmark certifications against local planning standards.

➔ No prerequisites: There are no requirements to meet before applying.

➔ Universal eligibility: All assets—regardless of use type, size, or location—are eligible, including those currently under development.

➔ Flexible and upgradeable: Scores can be improved and upgraded anytime during the license term at no extra cost.

➔ Fully digital: The entire certification process is conducted online, saving time and avoiding costly on-site assessments.

The ActiveScore criteria focuses primarily on offering end-of-trip facilities to encourage active travel–walking, running, cycling, and other forms of micro-mobility.

Seventy percent of our scoring criteria focuses on on-site infrastructure, from the availability of secure cycling spaces to showers and lockers.

Occupier engagement services, or services that foster and celebrate a culture of active travel, like social clubs and promotions, account for 20% of our scoring.

The final 10% of our scoring focuses on future-proofing, ensuring an asset can continuously deliver on occupiers’ needs.

ModeScore encompasses the ActiveScore certification and its active-travel focus on infrastructure, engagement, and future-proofing.

Taking a broader view of sustainable mobility, ModeScore criteria also measures connectivity across four main pillars: public transport, private vehicles, active travel, and site-wide mobility.

Scoring within each of these pillars is awarded for ease of access and infrastructure related to different modes, as well as credit for engagement, innovation, and future-proofing, as in the ActiveScore standard.

Because everyone should enjoy a more sustainable travel future, we underpin each of these pillars with a distinct focus on universal accessibility.

Our blank assessment templates, which include scoring criteria, are available exclusively to ActiveScore and ModeScore Accredited Professionals (AP). 

We encourage individuals to complete our AP course to gain important instructions and product information before beginning an assessment. The AP program is free, open to everyone, and can be completed in under a day. Register here today.

Already an AP? After completing the course, you should have received a certificate and a link to access exclusive materials, including our templates. If you’re still having trouble, please reach out to our team for assistance.

As with much in real estate, it’s easiest and often more cost-effective to consider and integrate sustainable mobility early in the development stage.

ActiveScore and ModeScore offer a practical framework that helps you select walkable, well-connected locations, determine the optimal number of cycle storage and EV-charging spaces, develop effective engagement strategies to build a culture of sustainable travel, and everything in between.

Following our tailored, market-specific guidance ensures successful facilities that are future-proofed and designed for continuous improvement.

But we believe every building can be better, and it’s never too late to engage with us. Every building—regardless of age, use, or location—can benefit from a more sustainable and active travel program.

Whether you’re looking to differentiate your asset, attract tenants, boost satisfaction, reduce congestion, meet ESG targets, or improve your GRESB standing, we’re here to help.

Yes, GRESB recognizes ActiveScore and ModeScore as both operational and new construction Green Building Certifications. Certifying with ActiveScore equates to Partial Minus (“Partial -”) points.

ModeScore combined with ActiveScore can achieve 60% certified floor area coverage for an asset in GRESB, which is equivalent to a Partial+ outcome.

ActiveScore launched in 2017 as the only globally recognized green building certification program focused exclusively on supporting active travel.

Its evaluation criteria were developed through close consultation with industry professionals, active travel experts, and urban planners, incorporating best practices and regulatory guidance from Transport for London (TfL) and The London Plan, the city’s strategic planning framework.

ModeScore, launched in 2024, was built on the same foundation of expert input and rigorous standards. It draws on similarly robust research and industry collaboration to expand the focus to all modes of sustainable mobility. 

Our certifications are under three-year license terms, invoiced annually. (Note: you may request to pay for the entire license term upfront.)

The ActiveScore annual fee for a typical asset, regardless of size or property type, is approximately £1,550 (or $1,950 USD).

We also offer a design consultation service with expert designers who can help design and build custom, best-in-class facilities for your project. This service, offered by our partner Velocity, begins at £4,400 ($5,500 USD) and includes tailored design services, a 10% discount with providers and retailers, and a three (3)-year license term for ActiveScore certification.

This service is only eligible for projects in the early stages of design and development. Please email us at [email protected] and we can help you decide if a custom approach may be a good fit!

Our certifications are under three-year license terms, invoiced annually. (Note: you may request to pay for the entire license term upfront.)

ModeScore, which includes ActiveScore certification, is priced starting at £1,950 (or $2,450 USD).

Yes, we offer select pricing discounts on a case-by-case basis. We offer a small discount for properties that choose to pay their full three-year license term upfront. We also now offer At Scale pricing for partners who commit to applying certification across multiple properties.

At Scale is a streamlined option designed for clients seeking to measure and improve sustainable mobility at the portfolio level to strengthen ESG and sustainability reporting and align with global reporting frameworks and benchmarks, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) and GRESB. To learn more about discounted pricing and our At Scale approach, please contact us.

Yes, both certifications can be applied to any asset type of any size, in any location, and regardless of whether completed or in the development stages:

Commercial office
Multifamily residential
Retail parks and enclosed retail
Industrial and logistics
Business and research parks
Hospitality, including hotels and restaurants
Universities and institutions
Sporting facilities and other special uses
Mixed-use projects

Yes, our certifications apply to assets at all stages of development, whether in design, under construction, or already completed and occupied.

Projects in the design phase may submit finalised floor plans, architectural drawings, renders (CGIs), statements of intent, and other supporting materials to demonstrate their plans for the property once operational.

Projects in the design stage are uniquely positioned to incorporate the highest standards in sustainable mobility from the start, and at a long-term savings. For projects aiming for a high score, we recommend reviewing our Best in Class design document for ideas, guidance, and inspiration on world-class active travel and sustainable mobility facilities.

For a more tailored approach, we also offer design services and consulting through our partner, Velocity.

Our team regularly updates our location library. If the asset you wish to certify is in a geography not currently listed in our worksheet template, please contact us at [email protected] (for ActiveScore) or [email protected] (for ModeScore).

We’ll be happy to review and add your location to our system. Please note: In some instances, we may need to work with you to research and identify market-specific information in order to finalize inclusion of a new location.

Our certifications are generally applied to a single building, defined as a real estate asset of any use type with a single structure, disconnected physically from other structures, and used and managed as a single unit.

Assets comprised of two or more buildings that specifically share travel infrastructure and services, such as a common cycle store (bike room), shared car park (parking garage), and/or a designated active travel champion, may submit for a single certification upon approval of our certification team.

Yes, larger, master-planned sites and communities, at any stage of development, are eligible for our ActiveScore Communities and ModeScore Communities certification.

ActiveScore Communities emphasizes on-street facilities like bicycle infrastructure and walkability. ModeScore Communities builds on this, addressing local public transport, approaches to private vehicle usage, and delivery procedures.

Our Communities certifications ensure that these larger-scale projects are developed with sustainable transport access at their core. If this sounds like the right fit for your large-scale project, please contact us for more information and specific pricing details.

No, our certifications have no prerequisites or minimum score requirements. We believe any asset, regardless of age, type, or location, can support a culture of active, sustainable travel. Our certifications recognise and encourage progress in sustainable transport

Our certifications use a clear, expert-informed scoring system.

ActiveScore is assessed on a scale of 1 to 100, covering a wide range of active travel-related topics. Around 70% of the score is based on infrastructure—evaluating on-site facilities and amenities. Another 20% focuses on occupier engagement and services, while the final 10% assesses future-proofing tactics, such as surveying.

Certification is achieved regardless of the number of points earned, but we distinguish ratings at key thresholds:

40 points – Silver
60 points – Gold
80 points – Platinum
100 points – Platinum 100 (a rare perfect score)

Our certification process begins with a preliminary review to identify opportunities for improving a property’s score, typically resulting in an average increase of 5 points. Most ActiveScore-certified assets achieve Gold, reflecting a strong commitment to active travel, while still leaving room to improve.

ModeScore also uses a 1 to 100 scale, drawn from a total of 120 possible points. Its framework is based on four pillars of sustainable mobility: Public Transit, Private Vehicles, Active Travel, and Site-Wide Mobility. Each pillar includes a focus on universal accessibility.

With ModeScore, certification is also possible regardless of the number of points achieved, but additional ratings are awarded at the following percentages that mirror ActiveScore:

40% – Silver
60% – Gold
80% – Platinum

Unlike ActiveScore, ModeScore does not include a distinction for a perfect score.

Every ModeScore certification also includes a standalone ActiveScore certification. While both reward strong mobility performance, ModeScore takes a broader view of overall transport connectivity, whereas ActiveScore provides a deeper focus on active travel infrastructure and engagement.

Our ActiveScore standard underwent a full revision in 2024, with all changes to topics and scoring criteria communicated by email and across our social media channels.

Any future reviews to the ActiveScore/ModeScore criteria will be communicated in the same way. We recommend signing up for our newsletter and completing our free AP course to access the latest resources and stay up to date.

No, anyone can compile and submit for certification. Our certification does not require expertise–only close knowledge of an asset’s infrastructure and operations.

However, joining our AP community ensures that you hold essential product knowledge and can confidently advise your clients on achieving a best-possible score. Plus, you’ll gain exclusive access to our assessment worksheets and other resources. Joining is free–enrol today! 

The certification process typically takes 4 to 5 weeks to complete. Once you submit an expression of interest through one of our contact forms, our team will gather some initial information about your asset and issue an invoice. After that, you’ll move through four main stages:

1. Information Gathering: You’ll receive a questionnaire to provide detailed project information and supporting documentation, such as building specifications, floor plans, and, if available, photographs.
2. Preliminary Assessment: Once you submit your materials, our team will review them and deliver a Preliminary Assessment report. This includes your initial rating, any requests for missing information, and suggestions to improve your score.
3. Revisions & Resubmission: You’ll then have the opportunity to make improvements based on our feedback and submit updated evidence. Our process allows for up to two additional, optional rounds of revision to ensure you’re reaching the optimal score.
4. Formal Assessment: After reviewing your final submission, we’ll issue a Formal Assessment that includes your certificate, final report, and opportunities to help you market and celebrate your achievement.

The certification process typically takes 4 to 5 weeks to complete. Once you submit an expression of interest through one of our contact forms, our team will gather some initial information about your asset and issue an invoice. After that, you’ll move through four main stages:

You can get started by filling out our contact form. A member of our team will be in touch shortly to gather a few key details and guide you through the first steps of the certification process.

Our certification team accepts a variety of evidence types.

For existing and operational properties, we typically rely on annotated maps (including Google Maps), floor plans, architectural drawings, specification drawings, photographs, policies, planning documents, internal communications, promotional materials, and more.

For projects in the design and development phase, we similarly rely on annotated maps, renderings/CGIs, architectural and specification drawings, site plans, procurement documents, and statements of intention confirming future amenities and services.

Our team is happy to collaborate with you to determine which documentation will best support a thorough assessment. 

Before you start, take time to carefully review the scoring criteria and submission instructions.

Be sure to upload all requested documentation and supporting evidence. Providing comprehensive detail is strongly encouraged, but if you’re sharing a large or info-heavy file (like a policy or floor plan), please annotate it. Add notes, highlight key sections, or include brief descriptions so our team can easily find what’s relevant.

As the certification process is conducted entirely virtually, the materials submitted form the sole basis of the review. Clear, complete, and well-organized documentation helps ensure a more efficient and streamlined evaluation.

Please carefully review the instructions and information provided in your Preliminary Assessment email. The Preliminary Assessment report outlines opportunities for you and your project team to consider implementing additional measures and improvements to increase your score. You may also be asked to submit additional information or documentation.

Our certification process allows for up to two additional and optional rounds of score improvements, prior to the issuance of formal certification materials. Following the first Preliminary Assessment, you’ll essentially have two options: submit further information and/or documentation in response to the feedback to potentially increase the score, or accept the current score if no additional measures will be implemented.

Should you opt to make improvements, you’ll be presented with a second Preliminary Assessment reflecting those changes. Following this, you’ll have one final round of revisions and upgrades available to you prior to our team compiling a Formal Assessment and final score.

Certifying as quickly as possible at the start of your license term ensures you’ll have ample time to announce and publicize your score. However, we understand delays can happen.

Our certification process can be extended for up to 12 months from the beginning of a license term to accommodate unexpected delays. After this time, the most recent preliminary score and rating will automatically become your final score.

No, our team conducts the assessment entirely using the supporting and evidentiary documentation provided virtually. If additional materials are needed, such as photos, annotated floor plans, or renders (CGIs), we will request them from the client to verify infrastructure or services.

We revise our certification assessment annually to reflect the latest research, best practices, and global standards.

To achieve full credit where applicable, universally accessible spaces (e.g., those compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) or the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)) and gender-neutral spaces should be provided separately. Each is designed to meet distinct needs, and combining them into a single facility does not meet the full intent of either requirement.

We believe all individuals—regardless of ability or gender identity—should have access to facilities that are inclusive and respectful. Relying on one space to serve multiple purposes can limit access for those who depend on it as their only option, such as individuals with disabilities. Providing dedicated spaces for both accessibility and gender inclusion helps ensure a more equitable environment for all.

When designing your active travel store or cycling room, it’s a great idea to think about how it fits in with the rest of your end-of-trip facilities. A cohesive, well-designed space not only enhances the user experience–it also helps you score higher in this area.

To earn maximum credit, we’re looking for spaces that feel intentional and thoughtfully designed to celebrate active travel. Some common features of top-scoring projects include:

• A consistent color scheme across all active travel elements, such as wayfinding, signage, lockers, wall graphics, paint selection, and pavement markings.
• Bold graphics or messaging that clearly define the space, especially in open-plan areas.
• Thoughtful design touches like slip-resistant, graphic flooring and motion-sensitive lighting that are bright and welcoming.
• A regular maintenance routine that keeps the space tidy and clean. 

Great news: some of the most effective opportunities don’t require a big budget or much space. These are often operational or programmatic improvements, focused on communication, community building, and future-proofing for long-term impact:

• Consider small facility upgrades, adding amenities for active commuters, like more locker types, drying racks, or enhanced changing areas, especially if you have a bit of space to work with. If you already have a bike maintenance station, make sure it’s fully stocked with tools. If not, even setting aside and labeling a small, dedicated area can help show support and encourage use.
• Active travel thrives when it’s both easy and enjoyable. Build momentum with local partnerships, like commuter clubs, cycling days, repair workshops, or perks like local discounts, to boost visibility and engagement.
• Promoting what’s already available is just as important. Use your existing platforms, including emails, bulletin boards, info packets, and display screens to regularly highlight active commuting options and amenities.
• Appointing an Active Travel Champion can also make a big difference. This person connects with tenants, gathers feedback, and identifies improvement opportunities—keeping active travel on the radar.
• Affinity groups around cycling, walking, or fitness commuting help build community and encourage new participation. Regular events make these groups more visible and welcoming.
• Don’t skip the feedback loop. Survey occupants about satisfaction, travel habits, and needs. Knowing what’s working (and what isn’t) helps you prioritise meaningful improvements. If you’re not already surveying, travel or satisfaction surveys are a great place to start.

Low cost enhancements like these are often the best way to build momentum, boost engagement, and build a culture of active commuting.