Construction defects encompass a wide array of building problems and issues, each with its own set of symptoms and risk factors. Guardian’s 4C Process^® efficiently guides claims and cases in the construction defects and environmental arenas to rapid, well-reasoned determinations that facilitate more rapid resolutions. As our track record proves, expedience does not have to mean haste. Methodical in our approach, our 4C Process^® delineates four consecutive phases of the investigation: Classification (which category and type of problem or problems), Causation (root and contributing sources and factors), Culpability (which party or parties were responsible and apportionment thereof) and Cure (evaluation of corrective measures implemented, if any, or proposal of new remedy). Additionally, our identifications of cure address not only the field of available solutions, but in cases involving lingering construction defects and environmental claims cases, we often include an analysis of the initial remediation method chosen and why, including cost and time considerations and impacts.

Shouldn’t all evaluations of standard of care come with a higher standard of RESPONSIVENESS?

Why does Guardian operate with such construction defect diligence? Because we know you’re counting on us. And because we know the clock is ticking. Construction defects and related delays can be costly due not only to protracted investigations and litigation, but also for their tendency to exert a magnified impact over time. That’s why attorneys, carriers, owners, developers and contractors rely on our 30+ years’ experience, our national presence, and our impressive track record of providing efficient expertise to the industry. We provide you a single point of contact, neutral reporting and the kind of well-reasoned, well-documented construction defect theory that is made all the more impactful considering our daily construction practice. Guardian’s staff of architects, engineers, project managers, accountants, cost estimators, systems & claims specialists, and other personnel all come together to provide you a seamless approach that helps you surmount your construction defect challenges with greater technical acumen and greater timeliness, a higher standard of business professionalism.

Construction defect consultants with a complete command over virtually all of the engineering and construction specialties, Guardian’s seasoned personnel provide the on-site investigations, the testing, the pinpoint analyses and the expert witness testimony that resonates with judges and juries, arbitration panels and, perhaps most importantly, with opposing counsel. Having served law firms responsible for the successful resolution of construction defect cases for over 30 years, we know what it takes to come out on top. Frequently lauded for our command, composure and our ability to creatively problem-solve and to present the often dense, technical information required in construction defect cases via compelling graphics and multimedia displays, Guardian supports attorneys and law firms with uncommon tenacity. And when owners, developers and contractors seek proactive defect risk mitigation, we offer the benefit of our construction experience, knowing what factors can lead to construction defects and deficient work and how to minimize or avoid them altogether. When you need engineering or construction defect witnesses, it pays to talk to Guardian first.

Practical magic

From construction defect thematic case development to testing and analysis to negotiations support and expert testimony, we have proven ourselves capable of both improving your negotiating position and supporting you in winning the case. When called upon to support attorneys, the opinions we proffer carry the full weight of one who works in the field everyday. Our daily, real-world construction experience often positions us as the one with the best handle on what most likely occurred at a job site, when and why. In ADR (alternative dispute resolution) forums and the courtroom, the hand-picked experts we provide and the litigation graphics we supply portray project timelines and depict issues of classification, causation, culpability and cure with convincing, compelling clarity. To learn more about our 4C Process^® for Construction Defects, please click on the preceding link. Practically speaking, you just can’t do any better than construction defect witnesses and experts whose experience and testimony benefits from Guardian’s contemporary construction practice and its seven integrated consulting service groups.

When a construction defect claim is submitted, carriers need to swiftly begin their investigation, determine coverage and put a value on the claim to assess potential exposure. For insurance companies, municipalities or other self-insureds, a relationship with Guardian Group means working with a construction defects partner who responds diligently and who possesses an intimate familiarity with the claims process. And with the nationwide resources to meet any deadline, Guardian may be known for our rapid response times but ultimately we know the accuracy, thoughtfulness and thoroughness of our conclusions can never be compromised. Giving carriers the answers they need, with an attention to analytical detail while still keeping an eye on the clock — it’s the difference between diligence and haste.

With a unique depth and breadth of construction experience, Guardian’s capabilities, resources and expertise have been leveraged in virtually every industry and every type of construction project. With Guardian Group on your side, you can take confidence in our reputation, our background, our philosophy and our approach. The following represents only a partial listing of our construction defects capability:

Initially called in to investigate and determine the cause of a stop work order and underlying construction defects at the site of a prominent, private hospital’s twelve-story expansion project, The Construction Defect Group’s testing and analysis isolated not just a single issue, but multiple contributing factors. Absent cooperation from the General Contractor, a bottom-to-top inspection revealed many components to be defective and deficient, and incomplete work was discovered at every phase. From incorrect grading and concrete work to faulty structural engineering, multiple items were not in conformance with the plans or specifications. From the incorrectly installed windows and flashing to the improper electrical and communication cablings along with inferior completion at the exterior envelope, Guardian’s findings supported the claim that the contractor was cutting corners and was experiencing financial difficulties. Determining responsibility when numerous parties and multiple defects are involved is never easy, but via a series of diplomatic gatherings comprising all subs, vendors and attorneys, Guardian Group helped bring resolution to all disputes and litigation. Analyzing construction that was found to fall below standard of care, identifying responsible parties, and proposing solutions were only the first steps. Guardian’s recommendations always answer to a higher practical and accountable standard because we’re often asked to act as Construction or Project Manager to implement them. In this case, Guardian Group assumed overall construction responsibility and still managed to bring the acute care facility to completion ahead of schedule and on budget.