Structural Engineering & Forensic Structural Building Investigation – We are licensed Civil Engineers. Our engineering services include the structural design and evaluation of building gravity and lateral load-resisting systems; seismic risk studies; forensic building investigation to assess potential or existing structural defects and any resultant damages; and, investigation of construction defects.

California Mandated Balcony Inspections – We provide compliance investigations of balconies, stairs, and other elevated components required by California SB-326/AB-2114 for condominiums, and SB-721 for multifamily residential buildings. Following the collapse of a balcony in the Berkley area in 2015 that killed six people and injured seven, these bills were enacted for the purpose of increasing the safety of certain elevated elements at condominium projects, and at multifamily residential buildings having three or more dwelling units.

Seismic Risk Studies & Assessments – Our engineering services include Probable Maximum Loss (PML) seismic risk studies – a detailed building evaluation that follows the guidelines, criteria, and approaches set forth in ASTM E2026 & ASTM E2557. These in-depth assessments are used by mortgage brokers to make lending decisions, insurance brokers to rate assessments, and building owners to make seismic retrofit plans.

We also provide ASCE 41-23 Tier 1 seismic risk assessments. ASCE 41-23 is the most recent standard for seismic evaluation and retrofit of existing buildings, replacing ASCE 41-13. 41-23 incorporates significant updates to seismic hazard parameters, analysis procedures, and acceptance criteria, building upon the previous version. These changes are intended to align with the new USGS seismic hazard model and provide updated provisions for various building types and seismicity levels.

Commercial Building Inspections – BOATWRIGHT provides comprehensive physical condition assessments of commercial buildings. These surveys are an exhaustive on-site examination of the foundation, structure, and numerous systems and component parts of a building. The inspection findings are presented in a detailed written report that presents a clear understanding of the property, providing our client with valuable knowledge that is helpful in making informed decisions.

Specialty Assessments – Our specialty assessments include Condominium Conversion inspections, Health and Safety inspections, Property Condition Assessments (PCA), Project Capital Needs Assessments (PCNA), and Physical Needs Assessments (PNA). These inspections identify material violations of the L.A. Building Code, L.A. Housing Code, California Uniform Building Code, or the HUD physical conditions standards set forth in 24 CFR § 5.703, as well as defects that could affect the habitability or safety of a property including its structural integrity.

Expert Consulting & Legal Services – We provide consulting and expert witness support for construction-related disputes. Our engineering experience, construction knowledge, and in-depth understanding of the building codes makes Boatwright Building Consultants, Inc. uniquely qualified to assist when conflicts arise during or after a construction project.