Who is responsible for the general upkeep and maintenance of a building?

The correct answer is that facilities managers are primarily responsible for the general upkeep and maintenance of a building. Their role typically includes overseeing the operations of the building, ensuring that all systems (such as HVAC, plumbing, and electrical) are functioning properly, coordinating repairs, and managing service contracts with contractors. They take on a comprehensive approach to maintain the physical environment of the building, which may also involve managing custodial services and enforcing safety regulations.

While property managers also play a significant role in maintaining properties, their responsibilities often extend beyond just upkeep to include tenant relations, rent collection, and leasing responsibilities. Building inspectors, on the other hand, focus on evaluating buildings for compliance with codes and regulations rather than the ongoing maintenance tasks. Real estate agents are primarily involved in buying and selling properties, and while they may coordinate aspects of property marketing and negotiations, they do not directly handle maintenance issues.