Understanding the life expectancy of building systems is crucial for effective planning and maintenance in co-op and condo buildings. Fannie Mae's estimated useful life table is a valuable resource for key systems in New York City buildings.
Understanding of the life expectancy of various building systems enables effective planning, budgeting, and maintenance strategies to ensure the smooth operation and longevity of your building.
Fannie Mae maintains a comprehensive list of all systems and the following table summarizes those systems that are most common in New York City co-op or condo buildings. This table serves as a valuable resource, providing estimated lifespans for key systems such as the building envelope, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and elevators. By referring to this table, your board can make informed decisions, anticipate maintenance and replacement needs, and optimize the performance and value of their buildings.
| System | Years |
|---|---|
| Elevator machinery | 30 |
| Windows | 30 |
| Boilers | 25-40 |
| Cooling tower | 25 |
| PTAC | 15 |
| Façade | 40 |
| Roof | 50 |
| Parapet capping | 25 |
| Exterior fire escape | 40 |
| Mechanical room | 50 |
| Plumbing | 50 |
| Electric | 40 |
| Interior lighting | 15 |
| Exterior exhaust | 15 |
| Intercom | 20 |
| Compactor | 15 |
| Emergency generator | 25 |
| Wall-to-wall carpet | 5 |
Source: FannieMae
