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The Influence of Building Maintenance on Indoor Environmental Quality

Abstract

Building maintenance plays an important role in preserving the quality and performance of indoor environments throughout the life of a building. Indoor environmental quality is influenced by factors such as thermal comfort, indoor air quality, lighting, acoustics, cleanliness, and the condition of building components and services. As buildings age, inadequate maintenance can lead to deterioration of these conditions, affecting occupant comfort, health, productivity, and satisfaction. Regular and effective maintenance is therefore essential for sustaining a healthy and functional indoor environment. This study examines the influence of building maintenance on indoor environmental quality by assessing how maintenance activities affect the condition and performance of interior spaces and building systems. It considers the maintenance of ventilation and air-conditioning systems, windows, lighting installations, plumbing systems, finishes, drainage, and building envelopes. Particular attention is given to how the condition of these components influences the environmental conditions experienced by occupants. The study further explores the relationship between maintenance and indoor air quality. Poorly maintained ventilation and air-conditioning systems can contribute to inadequate air exchange, accumulation of pollutants, unpleasant odours, and excessive indoor humidity. Similarly, water leakage, dampness, mould growth, and deteriorated finishes can negatively affect indoor conditions. Regular inspection, cleaning, servicing, and timely repair can help control these problems and maintain healthier interior environments. In addition to air quality, maintenance can influence thermal and visual comfort. Properly maintained windows, shading devices, insulation, cooling systems, and ventilation equipment can support more stable indoor temperatures and improve energy performance. Well-maintained lighting systems and clean windows can also enhance daylight and visual conditions. The study therefore considers building maintenance as an integrated process that supports multiple dimensions of indoor environmental quality. The effectiveness of maintenance practices may vary according to building age, construction materials, occupancy patterns, climate, facility management systems, available resources, and maintenance schedules. Deferred maintenance can allow minor defects to develop into conditions that are more difficult and expensive to correct. Establishing systematic inspection procedures, maintenance records, performance monitoring, and timely intervention is therefore important for maintaining acceptable indoor environmental conditions over the building's service life. The study concludes that building maintenance has a significant influence on indoor environmental quality by supporting the proper functioning and condition of building systems and components. Consistent maintenance can improve indoor air quality, thermal comfort, visual conditions, cleanliness, and occupant satisfaction while reducing deterioration and operational problems. The findings are expected to provide useful guidance for facility managers, building owners, and architects in developing maintenance practices that support healthier, more comfortable, and better-performing indoor environments.

Keywords: Building maintenance, Indoor environmental quality, Indoor air quality, Thermal comfort, Visual comfort, Facility management, Ventilation systems, Building performance, Maintenance practices, Occupant comfort, Indoor pollutants, Building condition, Preventive maintenance, Sustainable buildings.