GZA provides specialized Forensic Engineering services to lawyers, public agencies, insurance companies, manufacturers, as well as companies in the power, consulting and construction industries on a wide variety of projects. Our services are focused on geotechnical, geo-structural and geo-civil issues conditions frequently in support of others who may provide more broadly based services.

As defined by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), Forensic Engineering is the objective investigation of conditions related to material, equipment or construction failures and accidents, including those involving human factors or catastrophic events, the technical evaluation of those conditions and the application of engineering principles to determine the cause of such failures and accidents. In broad terms, the purpose of a forensic engineering investigation is to locate a cause or causes of failure or distress with a view to improving performance or life of a project element, or to assist a court in determining the facts of incidents.

GZA has provided Forensic Engineering services since it’s founding in 1964 and is prepared to investigate complex problems that are primarily geotechnically based. Issues may involve, not are not limited to, structure subsidence, foundation failure, retaining wall distress and failures, waterproofing defects, groundwater control ineffectiveness, soil and rock slope instability, pavement distress of failure, dam defects and dam failures.

GZA documents Forensic Engineering services, whether for geotechnical or environmental considerations, in extensive carefully prepared and detailed reports that must withstand legal scrutiny by opposing attorneys and experts when as is common formal legal proceedings are likely. These services are directed by senior technical staff who remain intimately involved providing “hands-on” direction to all details of the engineering forensics work. In the event that the case goes to litigation, the lead senior technical investigator who is typically a firm Principal will provide expert opinion and testimony as required to meet our client’s needs.