Building Forensics and Design

The forensic specialists on our Building Technology Team will help identify and solve problems with existing structures or assess damage caused by man-made or natural disasters.

Our professionals have decades of experience investigating issues resulting from failure of material, structural issues, or construction defects. We work with contractors, building owners, owner’s agents, attorneys and government agencies, including cities and counties.

AET offers a wide range of forensic services

• Investigation and analysis of building problems relating to moisture infiltration, condensation, cracking, corrosion, general deterioration and foundation settlement
• Insurance claim evaluations and litigation support
• Condition assessment and documentation of building structural systems including facades, windows/curtain walls, roofs, slabs-on-grade, structural floors, walls, foundations and floor coverings
• Assessment of material and structural failures caused by fires, storms and floods
• Sample collection, analysis, and evaluation, using our world-renown in-house laboratories
• Specialized field and laboratory testing programs tailored to the project needs
  • Ground penetrating radar (GPR)
  • Air infiltration and water penetration testing
  • Vapor transmission calculations
  • In-situ load tests
  • Air quality surveys
  • Thermal surveys
  •  Vibration monitoring
  • Additional nondestructive techniques 

Building condition assessments and surveys

We can conduct assessments to document as-built and existing conditions to identify the need for repairs or preservation. This often includes:

• Analysis of building materials to determine their physical and chemical properties
• Analysis to determine the extent and significance of distress or deterioration
• Preparation of repair documents

We are also available for observations and testing during construction and develop options and recommendations for repair and rehabilitation. Contact us to see how our testing capabilities can supplement your next project.