The hidden cost of dormancy: redefining facility management strategies for seasonal homes

Purpose Although seasonal homes make up a large and growing part of the built environment, facility management (FM) requirements have been neglected. This study aims to fill this critical gap, challenge the common principle that function is the agent of deterioration and explain a distinct model of stagnation-induced erosion by examining previously unknown mechanisms in intermittently occupied environments. Design/methodology/approach This study moved beyond unidimensional methods by integrating objective electricity meter data (50 cases over 12 periods) with diagnostic insights from 50 expert interviews. Using a mixed-methods design, their first quantified the “building dormancy” periods and then, using Wilcoxon non-parametric tests and thematic analysis, failure roots are distinguished from normal wear and tear. Findings The analyses revealed that seasonal downtime accelerates the deterioration of stationary infrastructure (particularly pumps and electronics) through hydraulic deposition, mechanical seising and sulphation (p < 0.001). In contrast, heavy mechanical equipment, such as elevators, showed greater longevity. Originality/value These findings provide statistical evidence that distinguishes stagnation-induced deterioration from consumptive depreciation and show that disuse is an active deterioration mechanism. This establishes a new engineering framework that necessitates a transition from reactive maintenance to mothballing strategies by prioritising service readiness in the housing-based tourism sector.