Facilities management practices in gated communities in Ghana: a study of selected gated communities in Accra

Abstract

PurposeFacilities management (FM) has increasingly become crucial in the built environment. However, it is often overlooked as a crucial aspect of overall management. This study examined FM practices in gated communities (GCs), and challenges impeding the effective implementation of these practices.Design/methodology/approachThe study used a qualitative approach involving the use of purposive sampling technique. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the participants. Data gathered from the participants were analyzed thematically using MAX Qualitative Data Analysis (MAXQDA) Analytics Pro 2024 software.FindingsFM in GCs played a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of the GCs. These roles were vendor management, security management, maintenance and repairs, communication, tenancy agreements administration, and ensuring environmental sustainability. Non-adherence to the rules and regulations by occupants, lack of policies, unreliable vendors, lack of training and lack of funds are the major challenges FM faces in GCs.Practical implicationsThe findings from this paper can be leveraged by stakeholders to help streamline FM activities in GCs to provide that conducive environment expected by tenants. It will also help owners of GCs obtain the maximum returns for their investments.Originality/valueThis paper provides information on FM practices and challenges in GCs from the Ghanaian perspective. The study adds to the literature on the emergence and growth of GCs in the African context.