Built Environment
Geotechnical
Geotechnical engineering is essential in assessing and addressing the interaction between soil, rock, groundwater, and the built environment. At Helmy Forensics, we specialize in investigating a wide range of damages to building and non-building structures caused by geotechnical issues, particularly foundation damage. Our expertise covers everything from settlement to landslides and sinkholes.
At Helmy Forensics, we utilize a range of tools and methods to conduct comprehensive geotechnical investigations, including soil testing and analysis, site inspections, and reviewing historical and environmental data. Our engineers conduct thorough investigations, meticulously analyzing damage resulting from geotechnical failures. 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 CASE
- Foundation Failures: Foundation issues often lead to serious structural damage. Our engineers conduct thorough investigations to determine whether foundation failures result from settlement, inadequate design, poor soil conditions, or improper construction techniques.
- Retaining Wall Failures: Retaining walls play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion and supporting slopes. When these walls fail, it can lead to significant damage. Our experts assess retaining walls for failures caused by design flaws, soil pressure, water drainage problems, and material degradation.
- Mudslides and Landslides: Geotechnical factors such as soil type, water infiltration, and seismic activity can contribute to mudslides or landslides. We investigate the causes of slope instability, including changes in soil composition, groundwater movement, and external pressures.
- Sinkholes: Sinkholes can form suddenly and cause massive damage to foundations and structures. We evaluate the causes of sinkholes, including natural processes like water erosion and human-induced factors such as underground mining.
- Soil Liquefaction: Soil liquefaction occurs when saturated soil loses its strength during seismic events, leading to foundation instability. In areas prone to earthquakes, we assess the risk of liquefaction by examining soil type, groundwater levels, and seismic activity.
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.
WHERE WE ARE
California | Arizona | Nevada | Colorado | Utah | Oregon | Washington
Submit an Inquiry
We look forward to hearing from you!
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Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
Yes, we provide expert witness services for legal cases. Our reports and testimony are thorough, unbiased, and designed to withstand scrutiny in court.
Main Office
2014 Capitol Avenue
Suite 100
Sacramento, CA 95811
877-877-1655
info@helmyforensics.com
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