When signs of building distress appear—such as cracks, leaks, or structural failure—they pose more than inconvenience. They can cause safety hazards, reduce property value, and even lead to building collapse or costly recovery if left unresolved.
In Miami, FL, where storm damage, coastal weather, and aging structures present unique challenges, it’s essential to work with licensed professional engineers who apply proven engineering principles and forensic science. NOVA Engineering’s forensic engineering team delivers thorough investigations, expert analysis, and practical solutions backed by civil engineering expertise and local knowledge.
What Is Forensic Engineering Consulting?
Forensic engineering consulting focuses on investigating why structures, materials, or building systems fail and determining solutions to restore integrity. Failures can stem from product defects, poor workmanship, moisture intrusion, or accidents involving electrical, plumbing, or geotechnical components.
Our forensic engineers investigate, test, and collect evidence to understand the cause of failure. Using engineering principles, data, and tools, we provide detailed forensic engineering services that assist property owners, attorneys, and insurance companies with quality solutions.
Key components of our forensic engineering process include:
- Comprehensive site investigations: Visual inspections, destructive and non-destructive testing, core sampling, and digital reporting to collect evidence.
- Root cause analysis: Determining the origin of structural failure, storm damage, defects, or accidents, not just treating symptoms.
- Technical documentation: Reports suitable for litigation, claims, or insurance recovery, backed by case studies and professional findings.
- Remediation design: Engineering solutions that restore integrity, prevent recurrence, and address structural or material defects.
- Expert testimony: Licensed professional engineers provide clear, credible support for attorneys, courts, juries, and insurance companies.
Why Miami Needs Specialized Forensic Engineering Firms
Miami’s climate accelerates structural deterioration. High humidity, saltwater corrosion, storm events, and strong winds increase the risk of building collapse or structural distress. In historic neighborhoods, older materials also face defects, cracking, and shifting foundations that demand specialized forensic engineering services.
General engineering firms may miss these unique stressors. Our forensic engineers apply knowledge across disciplines—civil, structural, electrical, and geotechnical—to investigate failures and determine appropriate solutions. From investigating fire damage to analyzing explosions, defects, or water intrusion, we use science, data, and continuing education to ensure quality results.
This expertise and ability to create Miami-specific solutions makes NOVA one of the most trusted forensic engineering firms in the region.
Your Forensic Engineering Questions, Answered
The process varies depending on the structure and circumstances. Most investigations take 2–6 weeks, including site visits, data collection, testing, and reports. Complex claims, litigation, or cases involving multiple buildings may extend longer, but our team provides clear timelines and ongoing updates.
Yes. Our engineers investigate construction techniques, installation methods, and material components to determine if workmanship issues or product defects led to structural failure or building collapse. Findings are evidence-based and can be used in claims, litigation, or warranty disputes.
We frequently assist legal teams, insurance adjusters, and organizations by submitting reports, providing expert witness testimony, and supporting claims. Our professionals understand court guidelines and clearly explain technical findings to support cases.
Yes. We provide forensic engineering services that comply with preservation guidelines while safeguarding structural integrity. Our engineers determine the origin of defects while balancing historic character with modern performance needs.
During the first investigation, our forensic engineers conduct visual inspections, collect evidence, and may use advanced tools like moisture meters, infrared cameras, or drones. We discuss the structure, review documentation, and outline testing methods, timelines, and expected reports.
NOVA’S FORENSIC ENGINEERING SERVICE HIGHLIGHTS
ATLANTA DAIRIES DEVELOPMENT, ATLANTA, GA
Project Location: Atlanta Dairies Development, Atlanta, GA Client: Larkin Owner, LLC/Paces Properties The Subject Property…
H-JAIA NORTH AND SOUTH PARKING DECKS, ATLANTA, GA
Client: The City of Atlanta This restoration included concrete and waterproofing repairs on the top…
CNN CENTER ELEVATED RAMP
CONDITION SURVEY, ATLANTA, GA
Client: Turner Properties, Inc.
Services Provided: Forensic and Non-Destructive Testing
NOVA FORENSICS SERVICE LOCATIONS
NOVA’s engineering professionals conduct forensic expertise for the following locations:
The NOVA forensic team applies its knowledge of federal and state regulations, technical skills, and analytical abilities to provide innovative solutions at excellent standards for all consulting services.
Make the Right Call: Choose Miami’s Trusted Forensic Engineering Consultants
Protecting building performance, safety, and property value requires more than general inspections—it demands forensic engineering expertise. With a multidisciplinary team of civil engineers, geotechnical specialists, and licensed professionals, NOVA conducts investigations, collects evidence, and develops engineering solutions tailored to each case.
Whether supporting attorneys in court, assisting companies with claims, or helping clients recover after storm damage, our engineers deliver knowledge, quality, and proven solutions.
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