Certified Facility Manager (CFM) Practice Exam

What is the term for maintenance that pertains to the general upkeep of the property, recurs regularly, and requires minimal training?

1. Emergency maintenance

2. Routine maintenance

3. Scheduled maintenance

4. Breakdown maintenance

The correct answer is: Routine maintenance

The term that describes maintenance which is focused on the general upkeep of a property, occurs on a regular basis, and requires minimal training is routine maintenance. This type of maintenance typically includes tasks that are essential for keeping facilities in good working condition, such as cleaning, landscaping, and minor repairs. Routine maintenance is necessary to prevent deterioration and ensure that the facility remains functional and safe for occupants. This maintenance is distinguished by its predictability and consistency, making it manageable without the need for specialized training. Routine maintenance tasks are often outlined in a maintenance schedule, allowing facility managers to allocate resources effectively and ensure that all areas of the property are maintained properly. In contrast, emergency maintenance refers to unplanned repairs arising from urgent issues that require immediate attention. Scheduled maintenance implies a more formalized approach to maintaining equipment or systems based on predetermined intervals, which may or may not require extensive training depending on the complexity of the tasks. Breakdown maintenance involves responding to equipment failure, necessitating repairs after something has gone wrong, rather than ensuring ongoing upkeep.