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In Malaysia’s humid tropical climate, building maintenance plays a vital role in preserving a property’s safety, function, and market value. Yet, it’s often overlooked by many property owners. Whether it’s a landed home, a high-rise apartment, or a commercial building, poor maintenance can lead to serious problems such as roof leaking, waterproofing failures, wall cracks, and structural deterioration.

While most people focus on location and market trends, the truth is that a poorly maintained property can lose significant value over time. Regular inspections, prompt repairs, and professional building waterproofing services are essential to protect your investment and ensure long-term durability.

FACTORS THAT LEADING TO POOR MAINTENANCE

1. 1. Faulty Operation

      
      Improper use of building systems such as pumps, HVAC units, or lifts can shorten their lifespan. Often, this happens when untrained staff are asked to operate unfamiliar equipment due to understaffing or sudden absences. Inadequate operation increases wear and tear, leading to premature breakdowns and higher repair costs [1].

   2. Infrequent Inspections
      
      Many property owners underestimate the importance of routine inspections. Without scheduled checks, roof leaks, wall seepage, or plumbing failures can go unnoticed until they become major issues. Implementing a preventive maintenance plan and keeping records of inspections can help identify small defects before they escalate [1].
      
      
   3. Poor Communication
      
      When maintenance teams, tenants, and property managers fail to coordinate, critical repairs get delayed. For instance, a water leaking issue may be reported but not acted upon due to unclear responsibilities or scheduling conflicts. This miscommunication often leads to higher repair expenses and occupant dissatisfaction [2].
      
      
   4. Aging Infrastructure

      
      Older buildings required consistent upkeep to remain functional and safe. If left unchecked, ineffective plumbing, breaking down electrical systems, spalling concrete, and weakened foundations can result in costly restorations. Neglecting these problems not only increases devaluation of property but also makes it less acceptable to purchasers, who may perceive it as a dangerous investment that needs costly rehabilitation [3].

   5. Environmental Factors

      
      Malaysia’s weather with heavy rainfall, high humidity, and strong sunlight can quickly deteriorate exposed surfaces. Without proper roof waterproofing or protective coatings, water can seep into walls and ceilings, causing mold, cracks, and peeling paint [4]. Over time, these defects shorten a building’s lifespan and reduce its resale potential.

POOR MAINTENANCE IMPACT ON PROPERTY VALUE

Good house upkeep may increase the value of your home in measurable ways. However, a house that displays evidence of substantial wear or deterioration may lose up the value for the house. This might be for a few reasons:

1. 1. Decreased Market Appeal

      
      Properties that show visible signs of neglect – such as blistering paint, cracked walls, and overgrown landscaping – immediately lose their appeal. Buyers and tenants prefer homes that feel well-kept and move-in ready. As a result, neglected properties often struggle to attract interest, leading to lower offers or prolonged vacancy periods [5].

   2. Increased Loss of Value

      
      Real estate is meant to grow in value, but poor maintenance can cause it to decline much faster [5]. Small issues like leaks, cracks, or outdated systems, if ignored, can lead to costly damage that lowers the property’s value. On the other hand, regular upkeep helps a home retain or even increase its value over time, making it more appealing to potential buyers.

   3. Higher Repair Cost
      
      Ignoring small maintenance issues can lead to bigger, costly problems. For example, minor roof leaks, if left untreated, can cause water damage, mold growth, and structural weakening if not fixed promptly. These issues not only compromise the safety and integrity of the property but also significantly increase repair costs [6]. What could have been a simple fix turns into an expensive restoration project.
      
      
   4. Safety Risks

      
      A property in poor condition can become a safety hazard. For instance, loose handrails, faulty wiring, water damage, and mold growth can pose risks to occupants. If someone gets injured due to neglected maintenance, the property owner could face legal and financial consequences.

   5. Difficulty in Selling or Renting

      
      Poorly maintained properties often remain on the market for longer periods. Potential buyers either walk away or negotiate significant price reductions. For rental properties, landlords may struggle to find tenants willing to live in poor conditions of home, leading to vacancies and loss of rental income [7].