The An attempt to identify and assess the key challenges in the operation and maintenance of smart construction buildings is relevant in the climax era of 4th industrial revolution. This study aimed to critically assess the major challenges associated with the operation and maintenance of smart buildings projects. Thus, this study adopted a qualitative research method, whilst utilising Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) technique. A total of 40 relevant articles were identified, selected and analysed using the PRISMA approach. The study findings reveals factors such as technology upgrades in smart buildings, necessity for system optimization; scarcity of sustainable construction and intelligent materials; operation and maintenance cost implications of smart buildings, acquisition of specialised knowledge, user’s behaviour and expectations; integrating complex systems in smart buildings; and requirement for an extensive data management plan are considered as major challenges associated with operation and maintenance of smart buildings. The study concluded that for ensuring long-term success of smart building, adoption of effective management on upgrading of technological systems and big data management, minimizing running cost, and accessibility to specialized knowledge are critical issues to be tackled in order ensure sustainability during the operation and maintenance of smart buildings.