Building Investigation Services

We perform forensic building investigations to identify structural deficiencies and evaluate construction quality. We also conduct California SB-326 balcony and Exterior Elevated Element inspections and detailed assessments of commercial and industrial properties.

Structural Engineering Forensic Investigation

Forensic building inspections are performed by a licensed Civil Engineer to detect structural deficiencies and evaluate construction quality. Assessments cover foundations, retaining walls, framing, and other building components to identify issues related to design, construction, or environmental factors and to recommend practical solutions.

Spalled parking-deck concrete slab with corroded reinforcing steel
Spalling at parking-deck slab with exposed corroded reinforcement. Photographed during a forensic investigation.

Our Forensic Inspections Include

  • In-depth assessment of the building’s structural condition
  • Identification and classification of structural deficiencies
  • Evaluation of potential future problems
  • Clear confirmation of whether observed conditions are problematic
  • Comprehensive report summarizing findings and conclusions
  • Recommendations for corrective action
California SB-326 balcony inspection — moisture-damaged wood framing at an exterior elevated element
Moisture damaged wood balcony framing documented during a California SB-326 investigation.

California Balcony Inspections

We perform California-mandated SB-326 inspections of balconies, stairs, and other Exterior Elevated Elements (EEE) for condominium developments. All assessments and reports are provided by a licensed Civil Engineer and meet or exceed statutory requirements.

Understanding SB-326 – California’s “Balcony Law”

SB-326 Overview

Enacted August 30, 2019, SB-326 requires inspections of Exterior Elevated Elements (EEE) in condominium buildings containing three or more units, ensuring their structural integrity.

Exterior Elevated Elements Defined

EEE are elevated “load-bearing” components and waterproofing: Load-bearing denotes elements that support decks, balconies, stairs, walkways, and railings extending beyond exterior walls, with walking surfaces over 6’ high, meant for people, and are mainly supported by wood or wood-based materials.

Required Inspection Quantities

A sufficient number of EEE must be inspected to ensure 95% confidence that the sample represents the whole, with a margin of error within +/- 5%.

Who Performs SB-326 Inspections?

The inspection must be performed by a licensed civil engineer, structural engineer, or architect.

Commercial Building Inspections

We provide detailed evaluations of commercial properties, including assessment of structural integrity and key building systems. These inspections identify significant material defects and potential safety concerns.

Our Commercial assessments are offered in two formats:
  1. Standard Commercial Assessment:  Follows ASTM Standard E 2018-08, but omits interviews, document review, and cost estimates.
  2. Property Condition Assessment:  Conforms to ASTM Standard E 2018-08 and includes interviews, document review, and cost estimates.