AI in the building maintenance industry leverages machine learning algorithms and data analytics to enhance efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and overall performance of building maintenance processes. Used for predictive maintenance, energy management, and smart building management systems, AI technologies come with a host of benefits.

Recent technologies are able to summarize maintenance schedules for quick reference, highlighting asset types and locations, easing the process for engineers and facility managers. Similarly, AI is capable of analysing asset register data to automatically identify and map appropriate maintenance schedules to each asset — a task that frequently takes months to do manually.

While spotlighting the advantages AI can bring to maintenance professionals, the industry must also be aware of its pitfalls.

What are the pros of using AI technologies in a building maintenance strategy?

1. Cost reduction 

AI can automate the repetitive tasks associated with setting up maintenance plans and ensuring they are optimal and legally compliant. Efficient and effective maintenance relies on a strong understanding of the facilities and assets that require maintenance and an informed plan to address them. AI provides a new capacity to create a deeper understanding that would be unfeasibly costly to implement using human resources.

AI can be used to minimise maintenance costs by decreasing unplanned downtime and optimising energy consumption.

As AI provides real-time data analysis and insights that can help facility managers make more informed operational decisions, this can reduce the likelihood of costly errors in judgment.

2. Time efficiency 

By automating tasks, AI tools can help maintenance professionals work more efficiently by streamlining processes and cutting down on timely repetition.

AI software tools can assist with many traditionally manual tasks, speeding up repetitive processes and helping to standardise data. In the long term, this can save those responsible for building maintenance both time and effort, which can be used in more strategic, high-impact areas.

3. Maximises asset lifespan 

AI-powered solutions can extend asset lifecycles by predicting potential failures before they occur.

By recommending the best timing for maintenance (not applicable for statutory requirements), AI can, in turn, prevent both over-maintenance, which can cause unnecessary wear, and under-maintenance, which can lead to premature failure.

4. Provides more reliable reporting and analytics 

AI in facilities management is incredibly helpful for collecting, analysing, and simplifying the array of information involved with building maintenance and its associated responsibilities, including diagnosing problems.

Machine-learning AI can interpret data from various sources, including sensors and real-time user inputs, to identify patterns and make intelligent, personalised predictions about building management needs, for example, previous patterns of equipment failure.

In the past, data had to be sorted manually, with decisions often being made without clear, evidence-backed reasoning. Now, through machine-learning AI, data reporting and analytics can be achieved faster and more reliably than ever before, lowering the risk of human error.

What are the cons of leveraging these technologies?

1. High initial costs

Despite its benefits, the implementation of AI in building maintenance is not without challenges – the most obvious being the initial cost of deploying AI systems, such as sensor installation and integrating AI solutions. This upgrade can be particularly costly for older buildings.

Implementing AI systems can require significant upfront investment in hardware, software, and training, so careful planning and budgeting are essential for a successful and cost-effective onboarding.

2. Data Privacy and Security Concerns 

As AI systems collect and process large amounts of sensitive building and occupant data, this may cause privacy and cybersecurity concerns for an organisation.

As AI systems require high-quality, consistent data to function effectively, poor or incomplete data can lead to inaccurate insights or decisions.  In other words, AI is only as good as the data that goes into it.

Ensuring this data is collected, stored, and used in compliance with privacy regulations is crucial.

3. Overreliance 

Industry professionals must always approach AI adoption with caution and not fall into a cycle of overreliance. Artificial intelligence tools are not infallible; they require rigorous data validation and continuous human oversight. Facility management systems are complex and demand nuanced interpretation that AI algorithms may not fully comprehend

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Essentially, the goal of parking garage maintenance is to keep water and corrosives away from the garage’s reinforcing steel. The damaging and compounding cycle of water infiltration never gets better on its own, and the longer that warning signs are ignored, themore serious and costly the repairs can become.

• • Water leakage — Leaking water is a clear sign that a parking garage is in need of repairs. The longer the condition is left unattended, the more expensive the consequences can become. Three indicators that water leakage is occurring are: exposed metals rusting, rust stains along the walls and efflorescence.

• • Ponding water — Water and parking garages do not mix well, so standing water is obviously an issue. A simple drain installation or protective waterproof membrane will prevent future, larger problems.

• • Expansion joint failure — Failed expansion joints provide another avenue for water to penetrate and reach the reinforcing steel and T-to-T connector plates. Repairing expansion joints is much simpler than resolving issues created by corroded reinforcing steel and connector plates. Detecting expansion joint problems and reacting quickly to make repairs will be beneficial in the long run. Wear at the T-to-T joints, expansion joint failure and flange connection deterioration are commonly found in Double Tee Precast structures.

• • Delaminated, spalled, horizontally cracked and vertically cracked concrete —Concrete is bound to crack at some locations. Delaminated or spalled concrete is when a piece of concrete detaches from the structure. Along with delaminating and spalling, vertical and horizontal cracks in the concrete also represent threatening areas of weakness. These issues are problematic as they can lead to structural damage because they allow water to reach the garage’s reinforcing steel. This type of damage is commonly seen on Post-Tensioned and Conventional Cast-In-Place concrete parking garages.

• • Exposed rebar (reinforcing steel) — If rebar can be seen, there is a problem that deserves swift attention. When rebar is introduced to water, it corrodes and expands up to eight times its original size. This condition usually is the result of a crack in the concrete that allows water to travel through and reach the rebar. The force of the expanding rebar causes more damage to the concrete around it, which creates greater access for water and more corrosion. It is imperative to stop this compounding cycle as soon as possible.

• Delay or avoid costly restoration
• Decrease liabilities
• Retain ideal parking volume and rates
• Adhere to local permitting guidelines
• Maintain the property’s value

Recent strides in technology have provided new and effective ways to extend the life of parking structures. These advances consist of conventional means, including better coatings and sealants, as well as all new methods of handling challenging concrete repairs.

• 

  Concrete repair and replacement
• Structural repairs
• Expansion joint installation/replacement
• Clear sealer application
• Deck coating installation
• Post tension repair (strand and button-head systems)
• Epoxy injection
• Chemical grout injection
• FRP (Fiber Reinforced Polymer Systems)
• Cathodic protection
• Shotcrete (spray applied concrete)
• Sacrificial galvanic anodes

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The findings also reveal over one in six (17%) Brits have noticed visible structural issues in a building they have lived or worked in.

The 2024 Building Safety Report conducted by SFG20, the UK industry standard for building maintenance, surveyed 1,500 people across 15 UK cities to highlight their perceptions of the safety and maintenance of their local buildings.

The report comes after the UK government has faced increased scrutiny over the last few years following the Grenfell Tower Fire tragedy and the RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) scandal, causing nationwide apprehensions around building integrity.

One in five (19%) members of the British public expressed their concerns about the health and safety of the building they live in, with mold, poor ventilation and dampness being some of the biggest issues raised.

Breaking this down by region, London is the region most concerned about the safety of local buildings, with 69% of London residents stating they were worried about the safety and maintenance of buildings in their areas. London is followed by Manchester (58%) and Leicester  (55%).

Concerns were raised over the government’s efforts to maintain and improve buildings in their area, with 30% saying they felt dissatisfied with the government’s efforts and 30% distrusting that local buildings are safe in accordance with current building safety standards.

Jason Instrell, industry lead at SFG20, shared his thoughts on the survey’s findings:

It is concerning to see an overwhelming majority of the British public concerned with the safety of their local buildings.

Over the last decade, the UK has seen a string of events that have placed the maintenance of local infrastructure under a particularly intense spotlight.  The use of RAAC in schools, Grenfell Tower and Dagenham Tower block fires has led the public to question the importance and overall safety of our buildings, both commercial and residential.

The introduction of the Building Safety Act in 2022 saw stricter rules on the safety of buildings and it remains the UK government’s responsibility to ensure the public feels safe and educated about the maintenance of these buildings. We hope this report will show the UK government the immediacy and attention required to uphold the safety of the buildings we live and work in.

Launched in 1990 by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), SFG20 is recognized as the UK industry standard for building maintenance specifications. With access to a library of over 2000 maintenance schedules that update dynamically to reflect changes in legislation and health and safety regulations, you can create customized maintenance schedules that are designed to keep you compliant while also saving you time, effort and money.

The complete SFG20 Building Safety Survey 2024 is available online from SFG20.

For more about the Greenfell Tower fire, see: “FMLink Special Report: The London apartment fire — why is this important for facilities managers?”

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January 15, 2025 — An old hotel turned into trendy apartments; a restaurant built in a former bank; and a warehouse divided into cool office spaces are prime examples of adaptive reuse. In today’s climate of sustainability, the benefits of adaptive reuse are attracting new attention from property owners and developers. Repurposing an existing, underutilized structure to give it a new lease on life benefits owners, the environment, and communities.

Adaptive reuse is the practice of refurbishing an existing building for a new purpose. The term became popular in the early 1970s when Boston’s Old City Hall was converted into an office and retail complex.

In the decades since, adaptive reuse has enabled some famous transformations — from the conversion of a decommissioned cheese factory into one of Arkansas’ premier art centers to an historic aircraft hangar becoming the home of Google.

The practice, however, goes back centuries. There’s evidence that ancient Romans saw the benefits of adapting structures rather than tearing them down. In Roman times, a voting center was transformed into an entertainment venue; after the fall of the Empire, Roman buildings were often used as churches, fortresses, and more.

Adaptive reuse is sometimes confused with other definitions for architectural renovation projects on old buildings. It’s important to note that restoration and preservation are not the same as reuse, although they both seek to bring a structure back to its original state, at least aesthetically.

Restoration returns a renovated or dilapidated site to its original glory. For example, Notre Dame Cathedral has been undergoing restoration work since a devastating fire in 2019. The goal is to restore the landmark to its pre-fire condition.

Preservation seeks to freeze a structure at a moment in time. For example, sites of historic significance are often preserved to protect their heritage. Modern means of weather protection and climate control are introduced strategically only to maintain the building’s original features.

Adaptive reuse reimagines buildings that have outlived their original purpose. Instead of restoring an abandoned shopping mall as a retail center, adaptive reuse might transform it to become an event venue. Communities tend to see the greatest benefit from adaptive reuse projects that turn single-use spaces into multi-use environments, like Boston’s Old City Hall.

Greg Trost, associate principal at St. Louis-based design firm Lawrence Group, remarked:

Cities around the world encourage adaptive reuse for the benefits it brings to local neighborhoods. In the first place, adaptive reuse protects a city’s unique heritage. Renovating buildings rather than tearing them down preserves the character of historic areas. It also revives dying urban centers. In recent decades, urban sprawl has pulled much commercial space out of city centers. Once-thriving neighborhoods are left to fade into obscurity or, worse, blight. Adaptive reuse reverses that. Multi-use renovations encourage new business development in established neighborhoods. Communities become more walkable, more vibrant, and more economically stable.

Reuse takes advantage of a building’s best features while modifying it for modern life. For example, the popularity of the industrial aesthetic created demand for housing in historic factories and warehouses. These repurposed buildings breathe new life into long-neglected industrial districts while simultaneously relieving pressure on housing stock.

Another example is transforming institutional buildings like schools and hospitals into mixed-use commercial developments. These sites are already situated in prime locations with spacious layouts and plenty of parking. Repurposing them revives mixed-use neighborhoods and boosts a community’s tax rolls.

Types of adaptive reuse

According to Trost, there are five common approaches architects take when planning an adaptive reuse project: renovation, integration, preservation, façadism, and infrastructural.

Renovation

Renovation entails equipping a building for its new purpose while preserving its original aesthetic. For example, when Dunn Library at Simpson College was adapted into a center for academic support services, architects updated the layout and mechanical systems while carefully preserving the vision and mid-century features created by the original architect.

Integration

Integration involves building around the original structure, and incorporating it into a new, larger building. For example, when the Grand Center Arts Academy wanted to restore the historic Sun Theatre, Lawrence Group architects integrated a modern stair tower and elevator to comply with life safety regulations. Similarly, when a new, blast-resistant vestibule was added to the Federal Reserve Bank, it was integrated to complement the building’s existing exterior.

Preservation

When combining preservation with adaptive reuse, as much of the building’s original features are preserved as possible. When the Southside National Bank was adapted from commercial offices to multifamily housing, the bank lobby was restored to its original glory. A similar restoration occurred with the lobby and executive office floors of the Park Pacific high rise.

Façadism

In façadism, a building’s public face is restored and preserved, while the structure behind it is demolished and built new. For example, turning City Foundry STL in Midtown St. Louis into a creative, mixed-use development involved exhaustive interior demolition and reconstruction, all while preserving the original building envelope.

Infrastructural

Infrastructural adaptive reuse repurposes public works like railways and tunnels for non-industrial use. The Grand Hall at St. Louis Union Station was once a bustling travel hub for railroad passengers. The historic landmark is an upscale restaurant and event space.

Trost continued:

Adaptive reuse has a number of benefits over new construction. It provides cost savings to building owners, has a lower negative impact on the environment, and creates physical and psychological benefits for the community. The owners of underutilized buildings may find adaptive reuse is faster and less expensive than demolition and rebuilding. If the building is structurally sound, construction time can be reduced by a third or more. Reusing existing materials like tiles, metalwork and lumber reduces the need to buy new products. Reclaiming materials benefits the environment as well. For example, reusing the lumber in the existing structure means lower demand on forests for new timber. The environment also benefits from the reduced demolition waste associated with adaptive reuse. Tearing an entire building down to rubble creates exponentially more waste and debris than renovating select areas.

Communities are often the big winners in adaptive reuse projects, points out Lawrence Group. Breathing new life into dilapidated buildings reverses urban blight; adapting the function of these buildings to accommodate modern life reinvigorates the neighborhood.

About Lawrence Group 

Founded in 1983, Lawrence Group is an integrated planning and design firm headquartered in St. Louis, MO with professional staff in Texas, Florida and New York. Using the power of people with great ideas to bring their clients’ dreams to life, Lawrence Group specializes in architecture, interior design, master planning, landscape architecture and furniture procurement. Lawrence Groups’ talented team of professionals work nationally and locally in healthcare, education, retail, hospitality, housing, senior living and workplace with the common goal of providing legendary customer service.

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Standard S700 also describes the practical principles, methods, and processes including equipment, tools, and materials, for the restoration cleaning, and fire odor management of buildings and contents. This standard also addresses contractor qualifications, administrative requirements, procedures, development of the Restoration Work Plan (RWP), documentation of project related events, and compliance with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

The ANSI/IICRC S700: Standard for Professional Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration includes the following:

• Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration Contractor Qualifications
• Administrative Requirements and Documentation
• Fire and Smoke Damage (FSD) Assessment
• Fire Restoration Equipment, Tools, and Materials (ETM)
• Fire Restoration Mitigation
• Source Removal
• Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) and Air Conveyance Systems (ACS)
• Fire and Smoke Odor Management
• Fire and Smoke Damage Contents Restoration
• Post Restoration Evaluation
• Limitations, Complexities, Complications, and Conflicts

Bran Lynch, IICRC S700 Consensus Body Chairman, expressed appreciation for other members of the Consensus Body and their hard work, noting the standard was over a decade in the making.

Brandon Burton, IICRC Standards Chairman, said:

Providing a Standard of Care for the professional restoration of structural fire and smoke damage to the restoration community is a massive win for our industry.  This ANSI/IICRC Consensus based Standard will propel the industry into a new phase of transparency, consistency, and quality.  I cannot stress enough how thankful I am to all the volunteers and organizations that have contributed to this critical and important document.  Specifically, thank you to the S700 Chair Bran Lynch and Vice Chair John Pletcher, to the volunteer Consensus Body members, and to the Restoration Industry Association (RIA) leadership for its donation of technical literature and resources.  

To purchase a copy of the new ANSI/IICRC S700: Standard for Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration and other standards, visit IICRC.

ANSI/IICRC S590-2023 Standard for Assessing HVAC Systems Following a Water, Fire, or Mold Damage Event

A related standard was first published in 2023: ANSI/IICRC S590-2023: Standard for Assessing HVAC Systems Following a Water, Fire, or Mold Damage Event.

The HVAC assessment process identifies impacted and non-impacted HVAC internal surfaces after a water, fire, or mold damage event. This Standard contains procedures to perform HVAC assessments and create a written report and Restoration Work Plan (RWP) of work for residential, commercial, institutional and healthcare buildings. The document lists methods and procedures to determine visual deposition and odor retention.

The S590 Standard includes the following:

To purchase a copy of ANSI/IICRC S590-2023: Standard for Assessing HVAC Systems Following a Water, Fire, or Mold Damage Event and other standards, visit IICRC. IICRC standards are also available via the IICRC Standards Subscription website at Gilmore Global. For more information on certification programs offered by IICRC, visit the group’s website.

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Large organizations might view AI as an expansive solution aimed at integrating all operational tools or analyzing massive data sets. This approach doesn’t necessarily serve the needs of frontline technicians. Unlike high-level integrations intended for C-suite efficiency and analytics, facility management must prioritize actionable, immediate solutions that directly affect the people on the ground — the technicians.

For many in FM, particularly technicians, there is a notable hesitation around AI, not out of fear, but because most AI applications aren’t relevant to their day-to-day tasks. Technicians spend their time fixing equipment, diagnosing issues, and maintaining systems. Their days aren’t filled with data analysis or report generation, so they don’t require tools that promise enterprise-level insights. Instead, to be beneficial, AI for technicians needs to focus on practical, intuitive applications that can improve workflow efficiency and reduce downtime without requiring significant training or time investment.

Understanding technicians’ relationship with AI

Most technicians in FM are not technology enthusiasts. They’re not likely to spend their weekends exploring ChatGPT, Dall-e, or Gemini, or diving into tech blogs for fun — they’re busy solving hands-on problems. For many techs, their approach to AI is simple: if it can help do their job faster, it’s worth considering. In this respect, AI adoption in FM doesn’t need to focus on replacing tasks but rather, on assisting them.

Ryan Koppelman, VP of Technology, eCIFM Solutions, Inc. explained at IFMA World Workplace:

Generative AI can revolutionize how designs, layouts, and workflows are developed and optimized. Facility managers and designers can leverage generative AI to explore multiple design possibilities and select the most efficient and cost-effective solutions.

Organizations and individuals that commit the time and resources to lean into this technology can benefit greatly. Where many will see the greatest impact will be in what might be considered stealth AI. Software developers are using these new generative AI capabilities to subtly improve the tools we already use.

While AI isn’t likely to perform physical maintenance tasks any time soon — like fixing a rooftop air handler or replacing the fluids on a generator — there are several ways it can empower technicians:

1. Instant access to knowledge: Imagine walking up to a piece of equipment and, without needing to input any queries, instantly having the system provide troubleshooting tips, parts schematics, or installation and warranty information. This capability is a major value-add AI can bring to FM, allowing technicians to access what they need without extensive searches.
2. Predictive suggestions: Like personal devices that suggest frequently visited places when you get in the car, AI can anticipate technicians’ needs. Suppose a technician often checks certain metrics or performs specific tasks for a particular piece of equipment. AI can recognize this pattern and prompt those tasks, reducing the mental load and time spent finding information.
3. Simplified mobile solutions: Today, most technicians carry smartphones. The challenge has been that many FM tools are too complex or weren’t designed with mobile use in mind, making them cumbersome for technicians to use them on the job. AI can streamline mobile apps to intuitively prompt the information needed, making it easy for technicians to complete tasks without being hindered by technology.

Shifting focus: AI tools that do the heavy lifting

For technicians, the goal isn’t to learn complex AI algorithms or to understand AI at a granular level. Instead, FM professionals benefit most from tools that “do the thinking” for them. AI can be integrated seamlessly, removing the need for technicians to learn coding, complex prompting, or system integration. It should simply work as an “assistant,” helping technicians find solutions on the fly without requiring deep interaction or customization.

Like Amazon’s intuitive product reminders: the system knows when certain supplies or parts may be needed and can proactively suggest restocking. This approach, which leverages AI to anticipate needs, can empower technicians to stay ahead without added complexity.

Mobile-first, technician-centric solutions

While tablets are becoming more common, phones are still the go-to tool for most technicians. Many FM tools are still based on legacy designs with desktop use in mind and are not optimized for mobile. This lack of mobile functionality has been a barrier to FM AI adoption. To truly empower technicians, the industry must prioritize mobile-friendly, AI-enhanced solutions that are efficient and easy to use.

AI-powered mobile tools tailored to technicians could streamline workflows by making essential information accessible anytime, anywhere. When entering an equipment status update, a mobile AI tool could prompt the technician with the most relevant fields or possible actions, such as suggesting preventive maintenance tasks based on recent activity. This user-focused AI delivers technicians the information they need without unnecessary steps.

Balancing industry trends and technician realities

While it’s tempting to think of AI as a panacea for FM challenges, it’s essential to differentiate between high-level tech integrations suited for large-scale companies and the actionable tools that frontline technicians need. AI’s effectiveness in FM will depend not on just the needs of accounting teams or executives, but also on how well it optimizes workflows, reduces the burden of manual data entry, and supports technicians with accessible, mobile-first tools that bring intelligence directly to the field.

While organizations are busy implementing large scale AI tools for analysis and to improve decision-making, it is important to also remember empowering technicians with thoughtful, focused AI applications that save time, reduce errors, and improve safety by delivering critical information at the right moment.

About the Author

Jonathan Styrlund is a vice president at ARC Facilities. Styrlund joined ARC in 2001 and has managed the development of several of the company’s technology products. Today, he oversees development of the award-winning ARC Facilities solution, which uses AI and machine learning to allow facilities professionals to instantly access critical building information from any mobile device.

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According to the International Facility Management Association (IFMA), FM has become “data-driven,” and new AI-powered technology offers “enormous potential” for the future of the industry. And not a moment too soon, as FM professionals continue to be challenged by budget constraints, staff shortages, and an ongoing focus on making their buildings and facilities more sustainable. The sheer pace of all this change can be dizzying, and top of mind for FM leadership headed into next year will be how to turn AI’s theoretical promise into tangible solutions.

5 ways AI can empower FM professionals

Here are 5 powerful ways FM professionals can use AI to drive value and transformation in the industry:

1. Integrate AI with IoT to generate data-driven insights and power predictive maintenance

The Internet of Things (IoT) represents a network of interconnected sensors that capture data and help provide insights that improve decision-making, especially when it comes to the future health of various assets. As Deloitte explains, FM professionals can use IoT devices to gather data from multiple sources (remote diagnostic tools, historic performance, field reports, etc.) and conduct AI-enabled analysis to understand their network more deeply. Other research from Deloitte indicates that implementing IoT for predictive maintenance and asset monitoring leads to a 20–30% reduction in maintenance costs. By getting ahead of problems before they arise, facility managers can better direct resources and reduce unnecessary repairs.

FM Pro Tip: Start with a pilot program focusing on critical equipment to demonstrate quick wins. Then, once ROI is proven, gradually expand to other areas.

2. Deploy an AI-driven field service management (FSM) system that can automatically assign technicians to tasks based on multiple variables

Historically, assigning field service technicians has been a manual process prone to human error. When techs don’t have time to finish a job it can quickly tank productivity across the board, leading to employee burnout and frustrated customers. But with AI, field service techs can be autonomously dispatched based on real-time data, preferences, and proximity, thereby optimizing routes and reducing inefficiency costs. Recent research shows that 80% of high-performing field service teams use AI, and that automation can significantly increase employee/customer satisfaction scores.

FM Pro Tip: Use your FSM solution to dispatch in a small department or region first to test-and-learn how AI-assigned technicians compare to your current back-office operations.

3. Infuse AI into CRM systems to create a 360-degree view of each customer

 As customer expectations continue to evolve, there is far less tolerance nowadays for downtime. To get more proactive, FM professionals use AI to analyze their CRM data to uncover usage patterns, track reporting on equipment health, and create a bespoke customer profile that triggers preemptive service notifications. When customers don’t have to initiate contact, service teams spend less time on conflict resolution and more time building relationships. According to Forrester, customer-obsessed organizations reported 41% faster revenue growth, 49% faster profit growth, and 51% better customer retention than those who aren’t customer-obsessed.

FM Pro Tip: To help convince leadership to infuse AI into CRM, explain how customer service teams can scale faster by handling more issues, without sacrificing the quality of care.

4. Introduce AI-powered training programs to upskill technicians continuously and encourage professional growth

Given the myriad issues that could go wrong with a building at any moment, retaining employees with institutional knowledge is a big priority for facility managers. Studies have shown that it’s far more cost-effective to upskill current employees than to hire/onboard new talent, and AI can help level up technicians by providing critical on-the-job training. On average, teaching an employee a new skill is one-third of the cost of onboarding a new employee, according to the same research. Techs can also receive AI-driven feedback after completing assignments, helping to foster continuous improvement and boost morale.

FM Pro Tip: Implement short, targeted AI-driven training modules technicians can complete on company time. This allows them to learn specific skills as needed, keeping their knowledge current while minimizing disruption to their daily tasks.

5. Analyze energy usage patterns with AI to reduce environmental impact

This year, the Department of Energy released a comprehensive plan to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from buildings by 65% by 2035 and 90% by 2050. Given this new imperative, FM professionals are rapidly updating their building information modeling (BIM) with AI-powered tools for a more comprehensive view of their sustainability targets, helping further reduce waste, decrease energy consumption, and optimize operations.

FM Pro Tip: Implement small, data-backed changes to your energy usage in different departments to see if there is a direct impact on output and overall cost.

Unlocking the value of AI

AI integration is crucial for boosting efficiency and sustainability in facilities management. It is not just a trend; it’s a transformative shift that enables professionals to anticipate needs and streamline operations.

As you explore these strategies, consider how each AI application can be tailored to your unique environment. The path to effective AI adoption begins with a commitment to continuous improvement and a willingness to innovate. By investing in these technologies today, you are not only enhancing your operations but ensuring that you are equipped to meet tomorrow’s demands.

About the author

Anand Subbaraj is the CEO and co-founder of Zuper, a provider of solutions designed to modernize and scale forward-looking field service businesses. With more than 17 years of experience in technology, including 13 years at Microsoft, Anand is an expert in big data, cloud computing, and SaaS. He is committed to pushing the field service industry forward through the use of intelligent automation and by staying connected with customers to understand and solve their most pressing challenges.

The post Building value: 5 ways AI is transforming facilities management appeared first on FMLink.

Alongside the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements, EPA is announcing $2.6 billion in newly available drinking water infrastructure funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This funding will flow through the drinking water state revolving funds (DWSRFs) and is available to support lead pipe replacement and inventory projects. Additionally, 49% of the funding must be provided to disadvantaged communities as grant funding or principal forgiveness that does not have to be repaid. EPA is also announcing the availability of $35 million in competitive grant funding for reducing lead in drinking water. Communities are invited to apply directly for grant funding through this program. Additional federal funding is available to support lead pipe replacement projects and EPA has developed a website identifying available funding sources.

EPA estimates that up to 9 million homes are served through legacy lead pipes across the country, many of which are in lower-income communities and communities of color, creating disproportionate lead exposure burden for these families. Eliminating lead exposure from the air people breathe, the water people drink, and the homes people live in is a crucial component of the Administration’s historic commitment to advancing environmental justice.

The Lead and Copper Rule Improvements establish achievable, common-sense practices which have been implemented by several states and cities. The public health and economic benefits of the final rule are estimated to be up to 13 times greater than the costs, and together with new funding announced under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, water systems will be able to accelerate removal of lead pipes and create good-paying local jobs in the process.

The science is clear: Lead is a potent neurotoxin and there is no safe level of lead exposure, particularly for children. In children, lead can severely harm mental and physical development, slow down learning, and irreversibly damage the brain. In adults, lead can cause increased blood pressure, heart disease, decreased kidney function, and cancer. If someone is impacted by lead exposure, there is no known antidote, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  The Lead and Copper Rule Improvements strengthen nationwide requirements to protect children and adults from these significant and irreversible health effects from lead in drinking water.

Communities across the country have already begun to tackle lead pipes:

• Milwaukee Water Works is on track to replace all remaining lead pipes within the EPA’s 10-year timeframe. In 2024 alone, Milwaukee received approximately $30 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to replace 3,400 lead service lines.
• The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department has received $90 million from the Administration and will replace more than 8,000 lead service lines this year, putting the city on track to replace all lead pipes in 10 years.
• The Erie, Pennsylvania Water Works has received $49 million from EPA to enable the city to replace all lead pipes within 5 years instead of 25 years.
• Denver Water has accelerated its efforts through $76 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, allowing the city to be on track to replace all lead pipes within a decade.

The Lead and Copper Rule Improvements will help protect millions of Americans from exposure to lead in drinking water. EPA estimates that on average, every year after the LCRI is issued it will:

• Protect up to 900,000 infants from having low birthweight
• Prevent Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in up to 2,600 children
• Reduce up to 1,500 cases of premature death from heart disease
• Prevent up to 200,000 IQ points lost in children

Investments in identifying lead pipes, planning for their removal, and replacing them will create jobs in local communities while strengthening the foundation of safe drinking water that supports economic opportunity.

For more information about the final rule, including a pre-publication version of the federal register notice and fact sheets, visit the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements rule page.

Background

EPA is taking a comprehensive approach to getting the lead out, including:

• Regulatory Framework: EPA’s final Lead and Copper Rule Improvements follow the science and EPA’s authority under the Safe Drinking Water Act to strengthen regulatory requirements to address lead in drinking water.
• Funding: The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides $50 billion to support upgrades to the nation’s drinking water and wastewater infrastructure. This includes $15 billion over five years dedicated to lead service line replacement and $11.7 billion of general Drinking Water State Revolving Funds that can also be used for lead service line replacement. There are a number of additional pathways for systems to receive financial support for lead service line replacement. These include billions available as low- to no-cost financing through annual funding provided through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) program and low-cost financing from the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program. Funding may also be available from other federal agencies, state, and local governments. These efforts also advance the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative, which sets the goal that 40% of the overall benefits of certain Federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.
• Technical Assistance: EPA’s water technical assistance (WaterTA), including the LSLR Accelerators and the Get the Lead Out Initiative, helps communities identify lead services lines, develop replacement plans, and apply for funding, including DWSRF funding, to get the lead out.
• Practical Implementation Tools: Through training, tools, webinars, and case studies, EPA provides support to drinking water systems to reduce lead exposure.

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This Standard was written for use by those involved in the mold remediation industry, primarily for mold remediation companies and workers, and secondarily, for others who inspect or assess mold complaints, prepare remediation specifications, protocols, or procedures, and manage remediation projects (e.g., indoor environmental professionals or IEPs).  Finally, this document is for other materially interested parties (e.g., consumers and occupants, property owners and managers, insurance company representatives, government, and regulatory bodies).

The ANSI/IICRC S520 Standard for Professional Mold Remediation includes the following, which are described in the Standard:

• Principles of Mold Remediation
• Mold Cleaners, Antimicrobial Chemicals, and Coatings as
• Remediation Tools
• Building and Material Science
• Remediator Qualifications
• Safety and Health
• Administrative Procedures, Documentation and Risk Management
• Inspection and Preliminary Determination
• Limitations, Complexities, Complications and Conflicts (LCCC)
• Structural Remediation
• HVAC Remediation
• Contents Remediation
• Post-Remediation Verification
• Indoor Environmental Professional

Jim Pearson, IICRC S520 Consensus Body Chairman, remarked:

After participating in the creation of the S520 since its inception, then Chairing it through its 3^rd and 4^th Editions, I feel this Consensus Body has been the most dedicated, hard working and productive group of volunteers I have never worked with. We believe this is the most accurate and informative Standard of Care for mold remediation ever produced.

Brandon Burton, IICRC Standards Chairman, stated:

This update represents a critical step to ensure the industry-accepted Standard of Care reflects what is current and prudent in the field of mold remediation.  I commend Mr. Pearson and the current IICRC S520 Consensus Body on the countless hours and effort they have volunteered to this revision, and to their ongoing commitment to our industry and its stakeholders.

To purchase a copy of the new ANSI/IICRC S520 Standard for Professional Mold Remediation and other standards, visit the IICRC Webstore or the IICRC Standards Subscription website. For more information on other certification programs, standards and certified firms, visit IICRC.

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The Metamorphosis Awards are a testament to ingenuity and creativity, recognizing the unique design and construction challenges that adaptive reuse and the transformation of under-used buildings present. Retrofit magazine will feature the winners in a future publication. View the 2023 award winners here.

Retrofit magazine educates and inspires facility managers, building owners, contractors and stakeholders about the retrofit market and the opportunities it presents. The vast inventory of existing building stock is turning the construction industry’s focus to the more cost-effective and eco-friendly retrofit and renovation market.

Projects must be completed between January 1, 2022, and July 19, 2024. New construction projects are not eligible. View the rules, submission tips, and more details about the competition here.

The deadline to enter the fifth-annual Metamorphosis Awards, honoring architects, designers, and contractors for excellence in renovation and retrofits, is July 19, 2024.

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