What role does maintenance play in life cycle costing in construction?

Maintenance plays a crucial role in life cycle costing in construction because it is a vital component of the total cost of ownership. Life cycle costing evaluates all costs associated with a building or infrastructure asset from its inception to its eventual disposal. This includes not only the initial capital costs but also ongoing operational costs, maintenance expenses, and any potential replacement or disposal costs.

Including maintenance in life cycle costing allows project managers and stakeholders to make informed decisions about the financial viability of a project. For example, a building designed with low initial costs might incur high maintenance expenses over its lifetime, potentially making it more expensive than a higher initial investment in a more durable structure. By considering maintenance as part of the total cost of ownership, decision-makers can better understand the long-term financial implications of their choices, leading to more sustainable and cost-effective solutions.

Other options suggest that maintenance either is ignored entirely, only affects initial costs, or has no relation to financial considerations, but these overlook its significant impact on the long-term value and performance of a construction project.