Construction Estimates
When legal professionals contact us about construction estimate disputes, they are interested in getting to the bottom of cost overruns, delays, or disagreements over what the scope of work may have been. In these cases, getting reliable forensic expertise is critical. At our firm we specialize in construction estimating and cost analysis, to help attorneys make sense of everything from alleged inflated invoices to disputes over change orders and contract misinterpretations. At our firm we know how to dissect complex budgets, timelines, and bid packages to identify exactly where things went wrong—and why.
Legal teams want to know whether the original estimate was realistic, whether costs were properly documented, and if any deviations were justified. We investigate the accuracy and completeness of the estimate by reviewing design documents, specifications, bid proposals, contractor records, and change orders. Our experts understand how construction projects evolve and where the gaps between expectations and execution typically occur. Whether the dispute involves a general contractor, subcontractor, or owner, we are able to pinpoint inconsistencies and offer an objective, fact-based analysis on how the contracts were written. Our knowledge of construction processes combined with our litigation experience allows us to provide legal proffessionals with the assistance they need. We have provided expert opinions in cases involving residential, commercial, and public sector projects. Our firm understands industry standards for cost estimating, scheduling, and procurement, and we know how to explain our findings in a way that makes sense to judges, juries, and arbitrators. Our expert reports are detailed, defensible, and tailored to support your legal argument, whether you are trying to prove mismanagement or defend a contractor's billing practices.
From the first consultation, we work closely with legal professionals to understand the legal context and align our analysis with the case’s strategy. At CESI we are responsive, thorough, and always focused on delivering insights that are both technically accurate and legally relevant. Our forensic team is prepared to support your case with expert testimony, clear visual exhibits, and comprehensive documentation. If you are navigating a complex construction estimate dispute, we are ready to bring clarity to the numbers—and strength to your case.
A forensic architect provides an expert investigation of defects in the built environment, researches relevant building codes, building design and construction standards, and building design and construction contracts for matters in litigation.
Forensic architecture helps in legal cases by reconstructing and analyzing physical environments, to provide context. This can be used to support or challenge testimonies, verify events, or provide clarity in complex situations.
Forensic architecture is used in a wide range of cases, including environmental disasters, building collapses, slip, trip, and falls due to defective walking surfaces and defective construction. It is particularly useful in situations where physical evidence or witness testimonies need to be verified or clarified.
While traditional forensic science focuses on physical evidence, forensic architecture focuses on the spatial and environmental context of an incident. It uses architectural analysis, spatial relationships, and visual evidence to reconstruct events and provide a more comprehensive understanding of what happened.
Forensic architects often collaborate with other experts, including engineers and forensic scientists. They may work alongside teams of investigators to analyze physical evidence, interpret data, and present findings in a way that supports legal objectives.
Forensic analysis is more detailed and typically performed after a problem has occurred (e.g., structural failure), focusing on cause, liability, and often litigation.
- General contractors
- Subcontractors
- Architects and engineers
- Project managers or consultants
- Material suppliers
- Property owners or developers
Liability depends on contracts, negligence, code violations, or breach of duty.
- Structural failure or collapse
- Water intrusion or mold
- Code non-compliance
- Poor workmanship or material defects
- Delays and cost overruns
- Foundation and soil issues
- Safety or OSHA violations
- As-built drawings vs. design plans
- Inspection reports and punch lists
- Photographs, videos, drone footage
- Material test results
- Correspondence, emails, RFIs
- Building code references
Yes. Courts and arbitrators can apportion fault based on responsibility, contract terms, or contribution to the issue.
P.E. — President, Civil Engineer
Ronald J. Cohen, P.E., is a Civil Engineer with a Bachelor of Science degree and over forty years of engineering experience. Mr. Cohen joined the firm in 1994 and has served as its Vice President since 2003. Prior to joining Consulting Engineers & Scientists, Inc., Mr. Cohen was…
Civil Engineer
Harry J. Dales is a Civil Engineer with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering and over 25 years of engineering experience. Mr. Dales has extensive experience in engineering and construction, including roadways, highways, parking lots, traffic controls…
AIA, NCARB — Vice President, Registered Architect
David M. Kenney, A.I.A., is a Registered Architect with a Bachelor of Architecture degree and over twenty-five years of architectural experience. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Kenney was founder and President of DM Kenney Architects with architectural and construction management…
