Erickson Structural is frequently consulted to determine the causes of unexpected or substandard performance of building structures. We provide consultation, investigation, structural analysis, destructive and non-destructive testing, technical reports, and can serve as an expert witness.   We are often called upon to assist with the investigation of insurance claims that involve structural loss. We observe and document the extent of the damage, conduct tests or perform subsurface investigations, establish the proximate causes of the damage, recommend repairs and prepare a final report usable by the various parties involved in the claim.  

• Perform proximate cause investigations
• Assess construction defects
• Assess design errors
• Assess materials defects
• Develop testing and monitoring plans
• Review design and construction documents
• Determine extent of damage
• Evaluate potential remediation approaches and develop remediation recommendations
• Provide consultation during remediation efforts
• Provide expert witness services

  Erickson Structural investigates buildings exhibiting structural distress due to age, climate, wear and usage, natural catastrophes (including fires, soil movement and water-induced structural damage), overstressed structures, and original design or construction flaws. Our investigations generally conclude with a formal report summarizing the distress issues and their causes. We also provide recommendations for a range of possible repair options. Once an appropriate solution is selected, we can assist clients in evaluating remediation options and understanding the structural implications of those options.

• Perform initial building investigation
• Perform building usage/wear research
• Review construction documents and structural calculations
• Investigate alleged design errors and construction flaws
• Develop materials testing plans (destructive and non-destructive)
• Perform forensic analysis of existing building materials, structural systems, and construction techniques
• Provide litigation support
• Report findings and recommendations

Erickson Structural provides consulting services related to the seismic evaluation and performance of existing buildings, whether as part of a planned or phased upgrade process or in response to sudden, emergency conditions. Our work focuses on assessing existing structures, identifying seismic vulnerabilities, and advising on appropriate upgrade and repair strategies to align with current standards. We also provide post-earthquake reconnaissance, evaluations, and repair recommendations.

We understand the unique construction characteristics and performance concerns inherent in older buildings. Our experience across a wide range of building types, owner requirements, and seismic evaluation standards (including ASCE 41 and ASCE 31) enables us to efficiently assess existing conditions and provide clear, practical guidance tailored to each project. Likewise, we can provide knowledgeable, rapid reconnaissance shortly after a seismic event to provide consultation and address the need for emergency structural repairs. We are ATC 20 trained and certified. Representative Services:  

• Observe, document and analyze existing structural conditions
• Review building codes and assess compliance
• Identify seismic vulnerabilities and performance concerns
• Develop customized rehabilitation options and recommendations
• Evaluate retrofit, strengthening, and repair approaches
• Perform seismic analyses
• Review proposed seismic upgrade and repair plans
• Provide post-earthquake reconnaissance and emergency response services
• Develop repair recommendations following seismic events

  Erickson Structural is proficient at performing structural analyses of existing buildings. We understand the unique design and construction issues inherent with existing (and often occupied) buildings. Our experience with a wide range of building types, owner requirements, seismic design standards, and advanced analysis and design techniques, enables us to efficiently identify structural issues that might exist.  

• Review original construction documents
• Observe, document and analyze existing structural conditions
• Assess applicable code issues
• Evaluate structural system replacement, retrofit, and strengthening options
• Develop materials testing plans
• Perform structural analyses and calculations related to existing building performance

The practice of structural engineering is increasingly complex, and the input of an independent, experienced structural engineer can be helpful to a project.  Erickson Structural provides third party reviews of work performed by other structural engineers.  We provide these services to other structural engineers in need of constructive feedback or “a fresh set of eyes,” and to construction industry professionals, such as owners, contractors, architects, insurers and attorneys, looking for a second opinion.  We are especially well-suited to review complex structural renovation, evaluation, repair and diagnostic projects. Our experience providing peer reviews is supplemented by our work conducting structural plan review services on behalf of jurisdictions.  We review the plans and calculations submitted for permit and determine what modifications are appropriate to satisfy applicable structural building code provisions.  From our forensic investigative work, we have seen “what not to do” and apply those lessons learned to our peer review efforts.  Having submitted peer reviews of our own work, we provide our feedback with tact and objectivity. We can review structural plans and calculations, written reports, proposed investigative and diagnostic testing plans, and the results of those tests, and similar efforts.  Our review can occur incrementally as the project evolves, or at a discrete milestone to coincide with the generation of work product.  Our comments and recommendations can be provided verbally or in writing.  When needed, we can conduct our work confidentially and we do not publicize our peer review projects.  

• Ready to begin? Fill out our Peer Review Inquiry Form.
• Questions? Contact us at info@ericksonstructural.com

  Erickson Structural offers consultation for structural building expansions, adaptive reuse, and code upgrades. We assist clients in evaluating existing structures, understanding code-related considerations, and identifying practical approaches to building expansions, adaptive reuse projects, and renovations. Our experience will help you navigate smoothly through the myriad of issues, including seismic issues, which may result from building modifications.  

• Identify existing structural conditions
• Assess applicable code issues
• Provide structural evaluations, analyses, and recommendations to support project planning
• Evaluate structural upgrade strategies that minimize disruption to building occupants and operations