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Benjamin Irwin on decisions that shape construction defect claims
Early decisions about defect characterization, testing, and expert involvement can influence risk, strategy, and the path of a claim.
Early assessments in a construction defect claim can affect liability exposure, investigation costs, and settlement strategy long before all the facts are known. At the CLM Conference in Dallas on September 25, Salas O’Brien principal forensic engineer Benjamin Irwin, PE, P.Eng., DFE, CXLT, will explore how those early decisions influence the course of a claim.
In “Beyond the Flaw: Decisions That Shape Defect Claims,” Benjamin and fellow panelists will discuss how early defect characterization can influence party identification and claim strategy, along with practical considerations around testing, expert involvement, and dispute resolution. A mock scenario will show how legal, technical, and claims professionals can work through a defense matter as the facts develop.
With more than 25 years of experience investigating complex failures involving buildings, bridges, civil infrastructure, and specialty structural systems, Benjamin brings firsthand insight into the technical realities that can complicate defect claims. His perspective will help attendees better understand how to develop facts efficiently, recognize investigation limitations, and make informed decisions as a claim evolves.
Session details
September 25, 2026 | 11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m. CST
Beyond the Flaw: Decisions That Shape Defect Claims
Benjamin Irwin, AVP, Principal Forensic Engineer, Salas O’Brien
Jay Hamad, Partner, Kennedys
William Moehl, Technical Leader, Construction Defect, UFG Insurance
Jackeline Rodriguez, Partner, Hamilton, Miller & Birthisel LLP
About CLM
The Claims and Litigation Management (CLM) Construction Conference is dedicated to meeting the professional development needs of the claims and litigation management profession. Since 2007, CLM has provided their growing membership of over 50,000 professionals with opportunities to expand their knowledge, build their personal brand, and advance their careers through continuing education programs, networking events, industry resources, and designations. Learn more here.
About Salas O’Brien
Salas O’Brien is an employee-owned engineering, science, and technical services firm focused on advancing the human experience through the built environment. Our team is engineered for impact®, helping clients solve complex engineering challenges with a focus on efficiency, resiliency, and sustainability, while advancing our team members through growth and opportunity. We are a top firm as ranked by Engineering News-Record and Consulting-Specifying Engineer, and we have appeared for over a decade on the Inc. 5000 list of North America’s fastest-growing private companies.
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