Minimizing downtime and maintenance costs for lifting equipment, including building hoists, involves a combination of proactive measures and regular maintenance. Implement a preventive maintenance schedule to address potential issues before they cause significant downtime. Use high-quality components to reduce the frequency of repairs. Train operators to handle equipment correctly and perform basic troubleshooting. Regularly inspect and lubricate moving parts to prevent wear and tear. Implement a condition monitoring system to detect early signs of malfunction. Finally, keep spare parts readily available to expedite repairs and minimize downtime.