Earthquake Damage Investigation & Structural Forensics
Earthquakes can cause sudden and significant damage to residential, commercial, and industrial structures. Even when the damage is not immediately obvious, seismic activity can compromise building systems, structural components, and interior finishes in ways that may not surface until weeks or months later. Garrett Forensics provides expert earthquake damage assessments using advanced forensic techniques, engineering principles, and decades of field experience.
Our experts specialize in determining the true extent of earthquake-related damage, identifying whether observed conditions are new or pre-existing, and distinguishing seismic impact from unrelated structural issues.
Understanding Earthquake Damage
Earthquakes create unique patterns of damage due to sudden ground motion, shaking, and lateral forces. Their effects can vary widely depending on soil conditions, building type, construction methods, and the distance from the epicenter.
Common signs of earthquake-related damage include:
Types of Earthquake Damage We Investigate
Structural Damage
– Earthquakes can affect the core structural integrity of buildings.
– Foundation cracking or shifting
– Diaphragm and shear wall damage
– Racked or misaligned frames
– Structural connection failures
– Beam, joist, or column movement
– Roof or floor system distortion
Non-Structural Damage
– Interior wall cracking and ceiling fractures
– Tile cracking, flooring displacement, or tenting
– Stucco separation or cracking
– Window frame distortions
– Detached fixtures or cabinetry
Mechanical & Utility System Damage
– Gas line displacement or leaks
– Water supply line damage
– Fire sprinkler system damage
– HVAC displacement
Soil & Ground Movement Effects
– Liquefaction effects
– Lateral spreading
– Differential settlement
– Slope movement or instability
– Our Earthquake Damage Investigation Process
Our Process
Garrett Forensics uses a systematic and evidence-based approach to determine cause, origin, and extent of damage related to seismic events.
1. Initial Assessment & Background Review
We review:
– Earthquake intensity and shaking data for the site
– Property construction history
– Reported timelines and observations
– Pre-existing conditions (when available)
– Previous repairs or known structural vulnerabilities
This helps establish whether the reported damage is consistent with observed seismic forces.
2. Detailed On-Site Inspection
Our experts conduct a comprehensive field examination that may include:
– Structural component evaluation
– Crack pattern analysis and mapping
– Levelness and distortion measurement using laser leveling equipment
– Foundation inspection and slab movement assessment
– Exterior wall and cladding evaluation
– Roof system observation
– Interior finish inspection for seismic cracking patterns
3. Technical Testing & Documentation
When appropriate, we utilize advanced tools and techniques:
– Digital floor elevation mapping
– High-resolution photography and videography
– Material evaluation
– Moisture or leak detection if utilities were damaged
4. Forensic Engineering Analysis
We evaluate whether the observed conditions:
– Are consistent with earthquake shaking patterns
– Could have resulted from pre-existing settlement or aging
– Are related to soil movement or liquefaction
– Show indications of displacement versus cosmetic cracking
– Reflect structural deformation or stress
5. Clear and Objective Reporting
Our findings are presented in a detailed, easy-to-understand report that may include:
– Cause-and-origin conclusions
– Distinction between new and pre-existing damage
– Structural integrity evaluation
– Photographic documentation
– Repair recommendations
– Expert opinions suitable for insurance, engineering, and legal use
Our evaluations are unbiased, evidence-driven, and defensible.
Common Questions About Earthquake Damage
How do I know if the cracks were caused by the earthquake?
Our forensic team analyzes crack patterns, displacement, and material behavior to distinguish seismic damage from aging, temperature changes, or settlement.
Can earthquake damage be hidden?
Yes. Some structural components may show subtle signs of movement not obvious to the untrained eye. Early forensic assessment is critical.
Does minor cracking mean serious structural issues?
Not necessarily. Our experts assess whether cracks indicate cosmetic or structural problems.
Will my insurance require a forensic report?
In many cases, yes—especially for disputed claims or complex damage situations.
Contact Us for Earthquake Damage Evaluation
If your property has experienced an earthquake—or if you suspect that recent cracking or movement may be seismic-related—our experts are here to help.
Contact Garrett Forensics today to schedule a comprehensive earthquake damage investigation.