By Adam Adkin and Armano Papageorge
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is being adopted worldwide for building design and construction. But once the building is ready for occupation, what’s the worth of the BIM model?
When the doors of a building open, the full potential of the BIM model can also be unlocked. An accurate, up-to-date model becomes a powerful tool for operating and maintaining facilities across their full lifecycle.
Asset knowledge is power
BIM – or a digital twin incorporating BIM – enables efficient assessment and management of every asset in a facility. From structure and services to fittings and furnishings, each element can be located with data on make, model, supplier, age, maintenance history and manuals.
For owners and facilities managers, this knowledge provides a solid foundation for smarter, data-driven decisions. It allows more accurate forecasting of facilities management costs, simplifies tendering, and offers clearer insights into valuation, insurance and return on investment. Efficiencies can also be realised through inventory management and spare parts ordering.
Most importantly, BIM supports proactive and predictive maintenance. Models can highlight statutory maintenance requirements (e.g. fire systems), prescribed tasks to extend asset life (e.g. HVAC) and opportunities for non-critical maintenance to keep assets operating effectively for longer.
Playing catch-up with retrospective BIM
Ideally, BIM data should flow seamlessly from design through construction to handover. In reality, many owners don’t receive a complete dataset at project completion. For these cases, retrospective modelling can still deliver value.
The process starts with gathering drawings, models and data from multiple sources, often inconsistent in quality and accuracy. These materials are integrated into a coherent 3D space, with assets categorised by room and scripts applied to streamline modelling. While automation helps, each project still demands innovation and manual adjustment to capture non-conforming attributes.
Verification against the physical building is essential. Asset audits can be time-consuming, particularly when services are hidden behind walls. But the outcome is a reliable repository of building data that owners can update and integrate with their existing business systems.
Earlier is easier
Retrospective modelling can be effective, but integrating BIM early in a project delivers far greater benefits. Developers, particularly those delivering long-term assets, such as build-to-rent housing, should embrace BIM from the outset.
This requires a tailored BIM execution plan, developed with experienced specialists who understand both the technology and the asset owner’s goals. The earlier the involvement, the better the opportunity to maximise data quality, minimise risk and optimise costs throughout the building’s life.
The value of lifecycle data
When used effectively, BIM shifts from being a design and construction tool to a long-term asset management resource. By capturing and maintaining accurate data, owners can run their facilities more efficiently, ensure compliance, reduce risk and unlock greater lifecycle value.
For facilities managers and owners alike, the message is clear: BIM isn’t just for building – it’s for living with the building, every day of its operation.
Adam Adkin is WT’s national asset and facilities management lead. Armano Papageorge is WT’s BIM lead.
Discover how WT empowers clients to maximise asset performance and achieve business goals.
Read more: Understanding assets and costs builds certainty for BTR investors
