Understanding the Problem
Our team communicates with ownership, operators, managers, tenants and financial and legal advisors, if needed, to understand and articulate their concerns. Together, we prepare an initial property integrity audit prioritizing issues according to risk and impact. We work in partnership with our client to develop an initial hypothesis of possible cause and potential impact.
Researching the Past
Once the concerns and initial hypothesis are defined, our team researches pre-development land conditions and interviews individuals who might shed some light on the history of the development. Then, we review available reports and plans pertaining to existing development. Finally, we perform reconnaissance, measurements and photographic surveys of existing conditions and apparent signs of distress. At this stage the hypothesis is further refined.
Studying the Present
Once concerns are articulated, research and initial surveys complete, we tailor a study plan and assemble an experienced team of engineering, design and construction trade specialists, as needed, for client consideration. When desirable, we are able to seamlessly incorporate client management, engineering or operations personnel and/or their local consultants/contractors who may possess first-hand knowledge of site development. This stage generally consists of investigation, field and laboratory testing and monitoring to study possible/hypothetical hidden conditions and causes and gather information and data for engineering evaluation.
Planning for the Future
Once the first three stages are complete, our team of specialists’ partners with our client to prepare a plan for the future. The plan will consider a) the assets’ function, structural integrity and value, b) severity of the problem, risk and impact, c) available physical and financial resources and d) immediate action items for asset preservation. Depending on results, action items may be as simple as monitoring and maintenance, or more advanced engineering, repair or construction alternatives.