Resumo

The construction industry plays a vital role in providing housing and social well-being (Gómez et al., 2023). However, its environmental impact is substantial, with significant energy, material, and waste generation. To address this, the sector is embracing sustainable practices, but implementation remains limited. This study delves into the challenges and strategies for fostering sustainable maintenance in residential condominiums, aiming to inform policy and promote long-term sustainability in the construction sector.

While construction companies are increasingly focused on sustainability, building owners often lack the necessary knowledge and engagement to operate and maintain their buildings sustainably, indicating a need for strategic approaches and further studies in effective building maintenance practices (Olanrewaju, 2022), objective of this study. Given this context, the question arises: What are the challenges in encouraging the sustainable maintenance of residential condominiums?

Challenges remain, including the need for a life cycle approach, to assess sustainable development in construction. Regular maintenance is crucial for increasing durability, however, the application of Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) in the construction industry is limited and presents significant challenges. Standardization of system limits and input parameters in LCSA and Life Cycle Costing methods is necessary to address building performance issues and promote sustainable construction (Schneider-Marin et al., 2022).

The study was exploratory in nature, focusing on investigating a subject that is not well-known or extensively explored. Exploratory research is conducted when there is limited information available on the topic, aiming to gain initial and in-depth understanding, generate insights, and form hypotheses for future research. A methodological approach was adopted that combined the collection of primary data through a questionnaire and participant observation, and secondary data through documentary research.

The transition from construction to condominiums in Brazil has been criticized for the lack of formal communication about the building's history, leading to operational errors. This has made it difficult to monitor and make effective decisions regarding sustainability aspects. To promote sustainability, public policies must prioritize regulation and inspection over tax exemptions. This creates challenges in adopting LCSA in existing buildings.

The study highlights the importance of life cycle assessment in sustainable maintenance of residential condominiums and the need for homeowners to be aware of the benefits of sustainability. It suggests that public policies and a quantitative structural model could help address the challenges and opportunities in sustainable maintenance.

Gómez, S. A. S., Guerrero, F. G., & Cubides, P. A. S. (2023). The rights of the poor in Colombia: Position of the Constitutional Court | Los derechos de los pobres en Colombia: Postura de la Corte Constitucional. Juridicas CUC, 19(1), 125–162. Olanrewaju, A. L. (2022). An artificial neural network analysis of rework in sustainable buildings. IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 1101(2), 022003. Schneider-Marin, P., Winkelkotte, A., & Lang, W. (2022). Integrating Environmental and Economic Perspectives in Building Design. Sustainability, 14(8), 4637.