What term describes the deterioration of buildings caused by lack of maintenance?

Blight is the term that specifically refers to the deterioration of buildings and properties that results from prolonged neglect and lack of maintenance. It encompasses not only physical decay but also the broader impact on neighborhoods and communities, often leading to decreased property values and increased social issues.

While decay might seem to describe physical deterioration, it does not necessarily encompass the social and economic implications associated with neglected properties. Devaluation refers to the reduction in worth of a property, often resulting from blighted conditions, but it doesn't directly address the cause, which is the lack of maintenance. Disrepair indicates that a building is in a state of needing repair, which is part of the issue but again emphasizes condition over the underlying environmental impact. Thus, blight captures the comprehensive effect of neglected maintenance in a community context.