Site Drainage

In architecture and construction-related legal cases involving site drainage, legal professionals require expert analysis that clearly explains how water management systems were designed, constructed, and maintained, and how they performed under the conditions that existed. Site drainage cases may involve property damage, flooding, erosion, or structural issues. Our firm provides comprehensive forensic investigation of site drainage systems, stormwater management, grading, and related factors to evaluate system design and performance, contributing factors, and compliance with applicable standards.

One of the most common questions we receive from legal professionals is whether the drainage system met applicable industry standards and regulations and how the system performed under the conditions that existed. We systematically evaluate drainage design plans, site grading and topographic conditions, soil characteristics, and hydrologic conditions and data. We examine how stormwater was designed to flow, whether installed systems—including swales, culverts, retention basins, and surface grading—were designed and constructed in accordance with applicable codes and standards, and how the system performed. We also evaluate external factors such as weather conditions, downstream conditions, post-construction alterations, and maintenance practices that may have affected drainage system performance.

Our analysis evaluates whether drainage system design and construction complied with applicable standards and regulations, what factors may have contributed to system performance issues, and whether damage or property loss resulted from system design or performance, from external circumstances, or from a combination of factors. We systematically identify design elements, construction practices, or maintenance issues that deviated from applicable standards or best practices. We assess whether the system was properly designed, constructed, and maintained according to applicable requirements, and we evaluate what external factors or circumstances may have affected system performance.

Legal professionals require assurance that complex drainage and site engineering concepts can be explained clearly and accessibly. We prepare comprehensive, well-organized reports with supporting visuals including drainage maps, photographs, and hydrologic flow models to clearly present our analysis and findings. We are experienced expert witnesses, able to present findings clearly and professionally in depositions and legal proceedings. We explain technical concepts in language that allows legal counsel, judges, and juries to understand the analysis without compromising technical accuracy or credibility.

Regardless of whether the engagement involves representation of a property owner, contractor, design professional, municipality, or other party, our analysis maintains objectivity and is grounded in applicable drainage design standards, engineering principles, and documented evidence.

If you are handling a site drainage case and need expert forensic analysis to evaluate drainage system design and construction, site grading and topography, stormwater management practices, compliance with applicable standards and codes, maintenance practices, system performance, or contributing factors, we are available to assist. Please contact us to discuss how our expertise in civil engineering and site drainage design can address the specific technical and forensic questions in your matter.