Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English - maintenance

~ n 1 the repairs, painting etc that are necessary to keep something in good condition + of  (The caretaker is responsible for the maintenance of the school buildings.) car/building etc maintenance  (evening classes in car maintenance | maintenance man (=a man who looks after buildings and equipment for a school or company)) 2 BrE money paid by someone who is divorced to their former wife or husband; child support AmE 3 the act of making a state or situation continue  (the maintenance of good relations between the two countries)