Construction Underpinning Failure Damage Evaluation

Salas O’Brien provided construction disputes and litigation support services for a client facing catastrophic damage to a building adjacent to a demolition and construction site. Our forensic engineers evaluated the severely damaged structure, investigating allegations of improper excavation and underpinning by the contractor. We documented extensive testimony and analyzed construction logs, drawings, and geotechnical data to establish a timeline of events. Our investigation revealed that the underpinning engineer acted outside their technical competence, leading to the failure.

Additionally, we found evidence of falsified records submitted to the municipality. Remediation of the undermined building became economically cost-prohibitive to repair as the construction work providing access to the building’s foundations was completed. The matter later proceeded to litigation but was resolved before requiring testimony. By delivering a comprehensive analysis and expert testimony, we enabled the client to navigate the dispute effectively.

SERVICES

Forensic Engineering and Construction Consulting, Litigation Support, Construction Dispute Resolution

COMPLETION YEAR

2022