Property Loss ~ BUILDING SERVICES
Sintra Engineering performs a variety of services relating to buildings
and building repairs.
These services include the assessment of why building systems have
failed, how building
systems should have been constructed, to what degree the integrity of
damaged building systems
has been compromised, and how damaged building systems can be repaired
in a cost effective
manner.
Examples of failed building systems include structural collapses, compromised foundations, water infiltration, fire damaged buildings, and structures that have been struck by motor vehicles.
Building Assessment Services
Sintra Engineering is sometimes called upon to examine the remains of a structural collapse or a fire damaged building. In the case of a structural collapse, we determine the cause of the failure. Was there a deficiency in the original design? Was construction completed according to specifications? These are critical questions that require answers if the claim is to be resolved.
In the case of a fire damaged building, our services are targeted toward mitigating damage and salvaging as much of the remaining structure as is possible. Buildings are constructed of primary and secondary structural elements. Primary elements are critical to supporting the structure, while secondary elements are cosmetic. A forensic engineering analysis will help to assess the severity of the incident in question, and whether damage is to primary elements or to secondary elements.
In addition, while the primary structural members may appear to have been completely damaged by fire, a trained structural engineer will be able to review the component's char depth and assess its carrying strength. This provides important information for the reconstruction process. A detailed listing of reusable components can be factored into the overall replacement cost, ensuring that the fair value of the reconstruction cost can be determined.
Code Reviews
Sintra Engineering can complete two types of code review assignment. The first is conducted to determine whether, at the time of the original construction, the building in question was built in accordance with the relevant building codes.
The second type of code review applies to buildings that are to be restored or rebuilt as a result of damage or total loss. The building codes in effect at the time the building was first constructed are compared with those in effect at the time of reconstruction. Any upgrades required because of changes in building codes are often the responsibility of the insured. As such, a detailed assessment of these upgrades - called "betterment" - is critical to the resolution of the insurance claim and the prompt commencement of reconstruction efforts.
Fire Reconstruction
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Our clients sometimes retain us to aid in the reconstruction of a building that has been damaged by fire. These assignments can range from preparing scope of repair documents to a full tender package. Scope of repair documents provide instructions for a general repair contractor whereas a full tender package is a complete set of drawings and specifications necessary to complete a competitive bid of the tender package. Please contact our office for more information on these and other building services.
