Flooding and Water Intrusion

Built Environment

Flooding and Water Intrusion

Water damage can arise from a variety of sources, and at Helmy Forensics, we specialize in identifying the causes and impacts of both flooding and typical forms of water intrusion. While these two types of water-related damage involve water entering a property, they differ in their causes and the way they affect the structure.

Flooding occurs when bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, or oceans, overflow their natural boundaries, or when stormwater systems and drainage are overwhelmed. This often results in widespread inundation of properties, causing severe damage. As floodwaters rise, they intrude into homes and buildings, damaging contents and structure alike.

Water intrusion refers to water entering a building through points of vulnerability, such as damaged or improperly installed building systems. Unlike flooding, water intrusion is typically not caused by external water bodies but by failures in a building’s infrastructure. Water intrusion can often be subtle, causing gradual damage like wood rot, mold growth, or weakening of structural materials. Identifying the exact source of intrusion is essential for determining the cause and extent of the damage.

Our engineers conduct thorough investigations, meticulously analyzing damage resulting from both flooding and water intrusion. We deliver comprehensive expert reports in as little as 7 business days to help facilitate timely decision-making.

WHY APPOINT A FORENSIC INVESTIGATOR?

We have the experience and expertise to deliver objective, science-driven analyses to uncover root causes, resolve disputes, guide repairs, and prevent future issues, ensuring informed decisions for our clients.

Pre-Loss Risk Assessment

Our extensive expertise in industry regulations, codes, and standards enables us to identify potential vulnerabilities before incidents occur.
We review design plans and completed structures to pinpoint areas with a high likelihood of future failure, ensuring proactive measures can be taken.
We also provide 3D laser scanning services to capture pre-loss conditions accurately.

Forensic Investigation

We provide clear, decisive answers to help you understand the root cause of an incident, assisting in coverage decisions and fraud detection.
We use advanced technology and tools that enable precise data collection, efficient analysis, and detailed visualizations, enhancing the speed and reliability of our forensic investigations.
We submit comprehensive reports within 7 business days of our site inspections enabling clients to make informed decisions quickly.

Expert Witness

Technical Clarity: We simplify complex technical details for courts and juries, making the information accessible and understandable.
Objective Insights: We offer unbiased opinions grounded in facts, ensuring credibility and trustworthiness in testimony.
Comprehensive Documentation: We deliver well-structured reports and visual aids to support findings in litigation.
Support During Disputes: We help identify legal responsibilities, defend against wrongful claims, and support subrogation or recovery efforts.
Strategic Guidance: We advise legal teams on technical strengths and vulnerabilities in their cases to shape strategies effectively.

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL CASES

Flooding

Foundation Damage: Floodwaters can erode the soil around foundations, leading to settling or shifting.
Structural Integrity: Rising water can damage walls, floors, and ceilings, weakening the overall structure.
Contamination: Overflows from sewage systems or exposure to chemicals can introduce harmful contaminants into the property.
Damage to Contents: Floodwaters can destroy personal belongings, electronics, and furniture, leading to significant property loss.
Mold Growth: Stagnant floodwater can promote mold growth, especially when it remains inside a building for extended periods.

Water Intrusion

Roof Leaks: Damage or wear to the roofing system that allows rainwater to penetrate the interior.
Plumbing Leaks: Burst pipes or faulty plumbing connections that cause water to seep into walls, floors, or ceilings.
Cladding and Window Failures: Defective seals or improperly installed windows and exterior cladding that allow water to infiltrate the structure.
Basement and Crawl Space Leaks: Water from the ground infiltrating basements or crawl spaces due to poor sealing or inadequate drainage.

Grounded in the Scientific Method

HOW HELMY FORENSICS PERFORMS ENGINEERING INVESTIGATIONS

PROJECT ASSIGNMENT

We promptly assess the project scope, assign the right expert, and establish timelines tailored to your needs and goals.

CONSULTATION

Our consultants discuss your case requirements, answer questions, and outline a tailored approach to ensure a thorough investigation.

SITE INVESTIGATION

Our engineers conduct meticulous on-site evaluations using advanced tools to document conditions and collect data crucial for analysis.

VERBAL SITE REPORT

We deliver immediate findings through a concise, verbal report summarizing key observations and preliminary assessments.

WRITTEN EXPERT REPORT

Our detailed, evidence-based reports are delivered within 7 business days, providing a comprehensive analysis, discussion, and conclusions, with actionable insights.

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?

Submitting an assignment through our web portal is fast and easy. You can also request a call or submit an inquiry with one of our forensic engineers who will respond promptly.

SUBMIT AN ASSIGNMENT

SUBMIT AN INQUIRY

WHERE WE ARE

California | Arizona | Nevada | Colorado | Utah | Oregon | Washington

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How quickly can an engineer be on-site?

For rush projects, we can be on-site within 72 hours. For all other projects, we prioritize scheduling promptly to minimize wait times. With our rapid report turnaround, you’ll have the insights you need quickly, ensuring efficient progress every step of the way.

2. How quickly can we receive a report?

Verbal reports are delivered directly from the site. Abbreviated reports are ready within 3 business days, comprehensive reports within 7 business days, and expansive reports within 9 business days.

3. Can you help with expert witness testimony?

Yes, we provide expert witness services for legal cases. Our reports and testimony are thorough, unbiased, and designed to withstand scrutiny in court.