Acoustic classification of buildings: impact of acoustic performances of a high energy-efficient building on quality and sustainability indicators

Sound insulation influences building quality and value. The present paper shows the acoustic performance assessment of a modern residential building which provides high levels of energy saving. Airborne and impact sound insulation and noise due to service equipment were measured by in situ tests in the case study. Besides the necessity to verify the respect of limits fixed by standards to protect building inhabitants, the question consists in computing the impact of acoustic performance in the assessment of sustainability and quality of indoor spaces. The paper applies to examined residence both the method of total quality certification BGP (Building Global Performance, based on Italian legislation, integration of a model originally elaborated on an existing low performance flat) and the certification of building environmental sustainability adopted by Umbria Region. The present paper aims at studying the relationship between acoustic well-being and environment-comfort standards. As a result, a contribution is provided to integrate the assessment of factors having an impact on building quality and sustainable development.