Case Studies
J.S. Held Acquires Shechter & Everett to Expand Forensic Accounting Capabilities for Family Law Disputes in Florida
Read MoreIn 2022, a two-story reinforced concrete structure had a roof, part of which was used as a parking lot, collapse during a re-roofing project. The roof was constructed of 2” tapered asphalt finishing over a layer of waterproof membrane and was over a reinforced concrete topping on precast T-beams supported by precast I-beams. A supporting column of the roof collapsed, leading to the roof falling onto the floor below.
J.S. Held’s Forensic Architecture & Engineering team was retained to inspect the site, review documents provided by the owner, conduct investigations, determine the cause of the roof and column failure, and assist in stabilizing the building.
After J.S. Held’s site inspection, we advised adding a lateral supporting system to the affected beams and columns to prevent further damage. We assisted in the preparation of the stabilization drawings and specifications. The team cored concrete samples and extracted reinforcing steel samples to conduct lab tests.
We also performed structural analysis on the failed column and found that it was unable to support the loads placed on this portion of the roof by the contractor during re-roofing. Our review of the provided documents uncovered several inconsistencies between the records, including discrepancies in the rebar strength and misplacement of reinforcing steel, which resulted in a lower load-carrying capacity.
Our team provided a detailed report to help the client understand the cause of the failure and analyzed the structure to aid in ensuring the stability of the building and the safety of the site.
> Building Failure & Collapse Analysis
J.S. Held forensic experts investigate failures that occur during the course of construction or service life of the structure. During the site investigation process, we conduct thorough assessments to collect and analyze the information necessary to determine the cause(s) of the failure and collapse.
> Structural Engineering
Our team is composed of civil and structural engineers who specialize in forensic investigations, repair scopes, code upgrade/compliance evaluations, and repair plans. We provide detailed forensic analysis of property and infrastructure damage by leveraging our understanding of the built environment and the impact of wind, water, fire, deterioration, construction defects, and outside forces.
> Forensic Engineering
J.S. Held’s forensic engineering experts include civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, geotechnical, and biomechanical engineers. Our forensic engineering analyses address what happened, why it happened, when the incident occurred, extent of damage, repairability, and applicable code upgrade/compliance requirements.
For additional information about the engagement or to learn more about our services, contact:
