Alterations' impacts on sustainability of low-cost housing schemes in Sri Lanka: The occupants' perspective

The occupants of low-cost housing schemes (LCHS) make regular alterations to their units to suit their unique requirements. These alterations in LCHS adversely affect sustainable performance. This study aimed at investigating the impact on sustainability caused by frequent alterations in LCHS in Sri Lanka. This research used a mono method quantitative research approach with the positivist paradigm using a survey strategy. A pilot survey and a questionnaire survey were used to collect empirical data. Mean value and relative importance index (RII) was used as data analysis techniques. There is a positive impact on the society (0.28) and economy (0.65) from alterations. Impact on environment from alterations was negative (−0.68). They also indicate the need to develop proper guidelines for the alterations involved in LCHS in Sri Lanka.