Design & Construction Defect Claims
When legal professionals come to us with a design or construction defect case, they are often dealing with issues that can significantly impact the safety, functionality, and value of a property. Whether the dispute involves structural issues, water intrusion, or possible code violations, they need forensic expertise that can pinpoint the origin of the defect and determine who is responsible. At our firm we specialize in forensic investigations of design and construction defects, and we have years of experience in analyzing everything from architectural plans to materials and workmanship to uncover the truth behind the problem.
Legal professionals want to know whether the design was faulty, whether the construction was completed according to the plans, and if the work met applicable building codes and industry standards. We conduct thorough investigations by reviewing design documents, construction schedules, contracts, and photographs, as well as inspecting the site itself. Our team of forensic engineers, architects, and construction experts identifies if the defect originated from a design flaw, substandard materials, poor workmanship, or a failure to follow code requirements. At CESI we analyze the impact of the defect on the overall project and its long-term implications.
What sets our firm apart is our understanding of construction processes and building regulations, which allows us to provide technical expertise. We have experience with a wide range of design and construction defect cases, including issues with foundations, framing, waterproofing, HVAC systems, and more. We do not just uncover the cause of the defect; we can also help quantify the damages, estimate the cost of repairs, and determine whether the defect occurred due to negligence or simply the result of a technical mistake.
Our forensic reports are thorough, clear, and tailored to the needs of the case. We understand that legal professionals need concise, understandable information that supports their legal arguments and holds up under scrutiny. In addition to detailed written reports, we provide expert testimony, including visual aids and models, to help juries and judges better understand the technical aspects of the case. When you engage us, you gain a trusted partner who will work alongside your legal team to build a compelling case based on solid forensic evidence.
Do you have a design or construction defect case that requires expert analysis or testimony to uncover the cause and determine potential responsibility? Contact us for help.
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…
