Our Services
Practical Solutions for Your Engineering Evaluation and Design Needs
Forensic Engineering and Investigative Services
UBSE’s forensic engineers provide detailed evaluations for both new and existing structures — from residential properties to large commercial and industrial facilities.
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Our investigations address damage caused by fire, flood, wind, hail, foundation movement, and structural failure, among other conditions.
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Typical forensic services include:
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Wind and hail damage assessments of building envelopes
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Structural, mechanical, and electrical evaluations
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Foundation performance studies
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Construction defect and claims investigations
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Damage inspections following fire, flood, tornado, or hurricane events
Our team identifies the cause and extent of damage, evaluates code compliance and structural integrity, and provides clear, defensible reports suitable for litigation, insurance claims, or repair documentation.
Litigation Support and Expert Testimony
UBSE engineers bring analytical rigor and real-world design experience to forensic analysis. We provide expert opinions and testimony based on deep knowledge of construction methods, building codes, and material behavior.
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Areas of expertise include:
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Building envelope and water intrusion
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Construction and Builder's Risk issues
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Foundation performance
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Fire and explosion damage
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Wind and hail storm impacts
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Structural failure and collapse
Our expert witnesses deliver professional, objective, well-documented findings that withstand scrutiny in arbitration, mediation, or court proceedings.
Fire Origin and Cause Investigations
UBSE’s fire investigators have extensive experience determining the origin and cause of fires and explosions involving property loss, fatalities, and complex subrogation issues. UBSE also employs K-9 assisted accelerant detection when arson is suspected.
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Our work encompasses first-party insurance claims, third-party defense, plaintiff’s cases, and product liability investigations.
We have investigated:
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Building and vehicle fires
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Explosions
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Wildfire events
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Contractor and consumer product liability claims
Our investigators hold the following certifications:
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Certified Fire Investigator (IAAI)
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Certified Fire & Explosion Investigator (NAFI)
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Certified Vehicle Fire Investigator (NAFI)
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HAZMAT Certified
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Accelerant Detection Canine (ADC) Handler
Structural Design Engineering
From new school campuses to industrial facilities, UBSE provides comprehensive structural design services grounded in sound engineering principles.
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Our process begins with understanding project goals and identifying the most efficient, practical, and code-compliant solutions.
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We design using a range of materials — steel, concrete, masonry, and wood — and deliver construction documents that ensure performance, safety, and cost efficiency throughout the building’s life cycle.
Building Repair and Rehabilitation
Not every project starts from scratch. Many existing structures can be repaired, reinforced, or modernized to extend their service life and meet current codes.
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UBSE engineers assess building envelopes and structures to determine which systems require repair or replacement, then develop detailed repair drawings and specifications.
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We apply the same standards of quality control, project management, and cost analysis used in new design projects — providing solutions that restore both performance and value.
