Impartial advice informing sound decisions
We are regularly called on to provide expert advice on a variety of issues.
- Expert opinion for clients. Homeowners, tenants, businesses, housing associations, local authorities, building contractors and insurance companies all benefit from our impartial expert opinion, giving them a clear understanding of the situation so they can make an informed decision on the options available to them.
- Expert evidence for court cases. When appointed by a solicitor, our expert evidence serves the court by providing independent and carefully considered clarification of the issues.
- Expert determination to resolve disputes. In some situations, as an alternative approach, we act as an impartial expert, jointly appointed by the impacted parties to provide independent expert opinion, binding on both parties, to decide the matter.
Thorough investigative approaches
Structural investigation of buildings can be non-intrusive and restricted to a visual examination of the building or structure. Alternatively, intrusive investigations can be carried out involving borescope examination, removal of finishes, specialist sampling or testing, ground investigation and a review of original construction information. Forensic examination of building failures will often involve many of the aforementioned investigations together with a review of anecdotal evidence, climatic conditions at the time of the failure and careful analysis of the remnants of the failed structure.
Clear and robust recommendations and advice
When compiling an expert report, we closely examine the evidence available and background documentation provided. Where necessary, further investigation is undertaken which can include inspection, testing or further research. Our reports are carefully compiled and written in order that they can be clearly understood and interpreted by those without the same specialist knowledge. Clear advice, recommendations or opinion are offered as required.
Commitment to rigorous accreditation
Our specialists are Tier 1 IStructE registered Expert Witnesses, assessed by The Academy of Experts, the professional society and accrediting body for expert witnesses of all disciplines.
This rigorous accreditation is based on qualification in the Structural Engineering profession as well as ability to evidence understanding of the role and duties of an expert witness and put this into practice.
We are conscious of our responsibilities when appointed as experts. Where the matter is likely to be decided in the courts, our duty is primarily to the court and the evidence we provide, whether written or verbal, is to assist the court in making its determination.
We quickly respond to any requests for expert opinion to confirm if we have the appropriate knowledge and experience and only consider taking a commission if we are able to commit the necessary level of resource.
