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Out of Sight, Out of Strategy? Rethinking Linear Assets in Asset Management

Efficient management of capital-intensive assets is crucial for ensuring the longevity and functionality of public infrastructure. Typically, public works departments and utility companies meticulously oversee the maintenance and upkeep of infrastructural elements such as roads, bridges and utility systems, ensuring communities’ connectivity and access to life-sustaining services up to the property line.

However, critical elements often overlooked by buildings departments are site linear assets.

What Are Site Linear Assets?

Site linear assets connect buildings to essential services. They are vital for seamless operations and must be integrated into comprehensive capital asset management programs. 

Linear assets encompass a range of critical components that facilitate the seamless operation of buildings, including roads, utilities and water systems connecting them to essential services at the property line. Despite their intrinsic value and contribution to overall property functionality, these assets are frequently sidelined in traditional asset management approaches.

Hidden, But Not Harmless: The Risk of Overlooking Linear Assets

It is imperative to recognize the importance of incorporating site linear assets into overarching property management strategies. Neglecting these assets can jeopardize the operational efficiency and longevity of buildings, as they serve as vital conduits for essential services. Often concealed or taken for granted, site linear assets demand heightened visibility within maintenance and renewal programs. 

Consider, for instance, buried water lines supplying water for fire suppression systems, sanitation and heating within buildings. Failure to monitor and maintain these critical connections can lead to mechanical damage, corrosion or obsolescence, compromising the functionality of vertical assets. By neglecting site linear assets, property managers inadvertently expose connected buildings to operational risks and potential disruptions.

A Call to Action: Integrate Site Linear Assets into Your Capital Strategy

To mitigate these risks and ensure seamless property management, it is essential for site managers to maintain a comprehensive understanding of site linear asset conditions. This awareness becomes particularly crucial during property expansion or modification projects, where accurate assessments of water supply and electrical capacity are indispensable. Similarly, during site consolidation or building decommissioning initiatives, proper accounting for linear assets is essential to facilitate future renovations or replacements. 

In essence, site linear assets constitute an integral component of comprehensive asset management frameworks. Whether visible or concealed, these assets play a pivotal role in connecting buildings to essential services and must not be overlooked in property management endeavors. By recognizing the significance of site linear assets and integrating them into capital asset management programs, stakeholders can ensure the sustained functionality and resilience of public infrastructure.

The Bottom Line: Site Linear Assets Complete the Infrastructure Picture

Whether they are in plain sight or not, site linear assets should not be overlooked when managing the property as they connect the buildings with critical services. By incorporating these assets into comprehensive management programs, stakeholders can enhance operational efficiency, mitigate risks and safeguard the longevity of public infrastructure. In summary, site linear assets are an important part of the whole asset management picture.

About the Author

Jonathan’s experience as a public sector executive and leader has primarily focused on real property management and construction for over 30 years. During his service as a construction engineering officer in Canada’s Armed Forces, he led the facilities functions during international deployments and domestically. He subsequently served as a real property federal public servant and as an Executive Director with the BC provincial government. Jon is a Designated Real Estate Professional (RI) with the Real Estate Institute of British Columbia and serves on the REIBC Board of Governors.

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