Construction

When wind, snowstorms, fires, vehicle impacts, tree falls, or other events damage structures, Origin and Cause forensic structural engineers provide clients with accurate and swift assessment to determine the extent of damage, and provide practical solutions to repair or rebuild the damaged structure. We provide structural drawings and HVAC design and assist the client with Building permit application. We will also help the contractors throughout the project, providing clarifications of our structural drawings and general field review of construction. We also provide shoring design for emergency contractors to stabilize and repair unsafe structures.

The OCI experienced Structural Forensic Engineers also help the client determine the root cause of damage. Often, the apparent cause of damage is misleading. So, determining the true cause is crucial because it affects the required structural repair design and the insurance coverage. For example, a crack in the ceiling finishes after a snowstorm is often perceived to be caused by the weight or snow. However, it can be caused by pre-existing construction deficiencies, or gradual foundation settlement, or long-term deterioration of the roof structure. OCI engineers are equipped with years of experience, expertise and resources to determine the root cause of damage and provide repairs solution to correct the problem from the root.

Our team is equipped with different types of drones to produce maps of the damaged area, take aerial photographs, and take photos and videos in unsafe and hard to reach areas like attics and partially collapsed structures. We are also equipped with thermal cameras and thermal drones that help us quickly and accurately assess water and thermal leakage of buildings.

We have completed thousands of structural forensic investigations; our experience encompasses wood, steel, concrete, masonry, and aluminum structures, both modern and old. We have experience with diverse types of structures ranging from, residential and commercial buildings to silos, barns and docks.

OCI Group offers expert structural engineering design review services to ensure that building designs meet the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and compliance. Our experienced engineers provide a thorough evaluation of structural plans, identifying potential issues such as design flaws, material inadequacies, or code violations that could compromise the integrity of a project. Whether reviewing new construction or modifications to existing structures, we deliver detailed feedback and recommendations to optimize design performance, reduce risk, and ensure long-term durability.

Fire and building code application and interpretation can be a complex endeavour. What is the building classification and occupancy? What are the required passive or active fire protection systems? What code was in place at the time of construction? Our code experts break down the barriers and provide a clear and detailed analysis of the prescriptive or objective based requirements, outlining which codes are applicable while dispelling any myths around grandfathering.

Applying for a building permit can be a confusing process, especially if you’ve never applied for one before. We can help you assemble the necessary documents for the permit application, apply for the permit on your behalf, and/or liaise with the building department to help get your building permit approved.

Drawings
We can measure your home and prepare a complete set of drawings for your building permit application.

Structural mark-ups
Already have drawings prepared? We can review your drawings and either mark them up or supplement them with the structural information and specifications necessary for the project.

When disputes over thousands and millions of dollars are at stake, having a recognized and respected expert supporting the litigation efforts is paramount. Our construction litigation support team is led by a former structural engineering university professor who has been qualified several times as an expert witness in the courts of both Canada and the United States. We have assisted the insurance and litigation industries on many large general commercial liability and professional liability claims. We have served as expert witnesses for both plaintiffs and defendants and prepared technical reports following the rules of civil procedure on behalf of property owners, contractors, and engineers. Our strong reputation made us the most trusted firm for non-insurance driven disputes.