In LEED for Homes, which feature must a "Dwelling unit" include?

In LEED for Homes, a "Dwelling unit" must include a cooking area, which is a fundamental feature that distinguishes it as a self-contained living space. A cooking area typically consists of appliances and facilities that allow for the preparation of meals, such as a stove and a kitchen sink. This requirement is aligned with the understanding that a dwelling unit should provide basic amenities conducive to residential living.

While other features, like a bathroom or living room, are common in many residential designs and may enhance the functionality and comfort of a home, they are not explicitly required for a unit to be classified as a dwelling unit under LEED guidelines. Moreover, the presence of a separate entrance is not an essential characteristic for defining a dwelling unit in this context, as some apartments or units might share an entrance while still functioning as individual living spaces.

Thus, the inclusion of a cooking area solidifies the identity of a dwelling unit by ensuring it meets the basic needs of its occupants for meal preparation, making this the correct answer in the context of LEED for Homes requirements.