Assessing the maintenance practices in the metropolitan markets of Kampala.

Abstract

This research focused on assessing the maintenance practices needed in Kampala metropolitan area. The main objective of this study was to assess the maintenance practices needed in markets of Kampala metropolitan area. To guide the research, three research questions were raised and answered and quantitative research design was adopted for this study. Research designed questionnaire entitled “maintenance practices for Kampala” was used to collect relevant data from the respondents. Condition rating index was also used to assess the condition of different market buildings considering the condition of the building elements within that building. The data got was analysed using descriptive statistics for mean and standard deviation for factors affecting the maintenance practices needed and the possible ways to improve on such practices. From the condition rating analysis, it was reported market rooms are the most deteriorated buildings with several defects than toilets, walkways, and kitchens. The result indicated that delayed response to reported disrepairs (µ=4.12 and σ=1.23), environmental factors (µ=4.10 and σ=0.87), age of buildings (µ=4.04 and σ=1.25) rated highly than lack of skilled personnel (µ=3.45 and σ=1.33) and maintenance culture (µ=3.20 and σ=1.22) as the main factors affecting maintenance practices needed in Kampala metropolitan markets. Also from analysis Preventive maintenance, regular inspection and employing skilled main power were strongly recommended as the ways that should be adopted to improve on maintenance practices in markets. It was therefore concluded that market maintenance management committee should employ building professionals who have knowledge on how maintenance practices are done. This study also recommended that the government should set strict KCCA laws and regulations to regulate the maintenance of both public and private buildings by developing building and maintenance code.