What does non-expendable property require throughout its life?

Non-expendable property is defined as items that are not consumed in use and are expected to last for a prolonged period. Due to the nature of these assets, they require formal accountability throughout their lifecycle. Formal accountability means that there are established systems and procedures in place to track the location, condition, and use of these items. This is critical for maintaining accurate records and ensuring that non-expendable property is properly managed and safeguarded.

Maintaining formal accountability helps prevent loss, theft, or mismanagement of valuable property, which can be particularly important in a military context where resources are limited and accountability is essential for operational readiness. It also facilitates audits and ensures compliance with military regulations and policies. Overall, this level of oversight is fundamental to effective property management and ensures that non-expendable property is available when needed.

While inspections and replacement could be necessary parts of asset management, they do not define the general requirement throughout the lifecycle of non-expendable property like formal accountability does.