Forensic Architecture
“The professional analysis of buildings, spaces, and other built
environments, with regard to design, code, construction, or material deficiencies,
to be used in a court of law or similar forums.”
Our forensic architects analyze and report on construction-related projects,
primarily focusing upon construction failures, deterioration, injuries,
negligence or compliance issues. Our experience provides us the ability
to examine the issues in relation to the original design and construction
documents, contract administration and construction observations, laws,
codes, life-safety issues and industry and professional standards. The
analysis of the as-planned versus as-built establishes responsibility,
liability and damages.
Forensic analysis may include
- on-site investigations and inspections (general, invasive, and laboratory testing)
- documentation of existing conditions
- dissection of building components
- photography, videography, and thermography of concealed spaces
- analysis of voluminous amounts of research documenting the means, methods, sequences, standards and conventions for installing building materials
Once the process is concluded our clients have a better knowledge of the specific causes, range and magnitude of building issues, and clearer insight on the direction and limitations of corrective actions required to repair, restore, or remodel the existing buildings in a practical, timely and cost effective manner.