| Services
are tailored to the nature of the project and the needs
of the client. Projects can involve review of documents,
consultation, comprehensive subsurface exploration programs
and engineering analysis. |
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Prior
to initiating a project, the scope of services and fees
are established as part of a proposal.
Prior to presenting a proposal for new construction, a
site map and preliminary plan or development scheme is
provided for our review and site visit. A written proposal
is
then presented to the respective client outlining the
scope of services and fees for the exploration and preparation
of a report.
A range of fees for visual evaluations prior to purchase,
distress evaluations and expert work can be presented
after discussing the nature of the project with the perspective
client. |
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Visual
evaluations of developed properties are performed
to assist buyers in assessing their risk in purchasing
hillside and beachfront properties. Work involves site
observations, reviewing published reports and Building
Department records and preparation of a report. This limited
scope of work is not suitable for design of new construction
projects but is intended to assist a buyer in evaluation
their contemplated purchase. |
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Geotechnical investigations
for new construction projects involve subsurface exploration.
Hand labor and excavation equipment are used to advance
test pits and borings below the ground so that earth materials
and the geologic structure can be observed and mapped
by the Geologist. Samples collected from the exploratory
excavations are tested in the laboratory to determine
their engineering properties. The subsurface conditions
coupled with the laboratory test results are used in an
engineering analysis of slope and site stability and the
suitability of the property for the planned development.
A formal report is prepared to discuss the results of
the exploration and analysis. Recommendations for the
new construction are presented to assist the project Architect,
Engineer and Contractor in proper design and construction.
Reports are suitable for submission to governmental agencies
for their review as part of the permit process. |
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Evaluations of damaged
properties are performed in phases with the initial
observations of the property supplemented with building
department research and review of in-house documents.
Further assessments involve distress mapping and a manometer
survey which utilizes a water level to determine the unevenness
or differential elevation across the building floor. The
results are utilized to select locations on the property
for subsurface exploration that may involve hand labor
to excavate test pits or portable drilling equipment to
advance deep borings. As with preliminary investigations
for new construction, samples are collected for laboratory
testing and engineering analysis. The results of the investigation
presented in a formal report aid in determining the causes
of distress and methods of reasonable remedial treatments.
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Expert evaluations
are performed in phases and incorporate many of the elements
utilized in the services discussed above. Commonly the
initial phase of the expert evaluation includes document
review, a site visit and consultation with the Attorney.
The scope of work is a function of the nature of the case
and the needs of the Attorney. |
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