Get two hours of face-to-face instruction for Design Professionals in the legal distinctions between Design Professionals, Code Enforcement Officials, and Contractors using New York State rules and regulations as the template for this presentation. The Course provides an introductory review of how and where New York State provides information in separate regulatory agencies on statutory […]
How’d a lawsuit find us?

A little over a month ago, the Justice Department filed suit against another condominium project for violations of the Fair Housing Act related to barrier-free accessibility requirements. The claim seems to take on anyone and everyone involved including the Owner, Property Manager, Contractor, and the Design Professional. Although the announcement did not include the specifics […]
Building Collapse

There are 2 structural objectives when you design and construct a building. One is for the long haul. To hold up years of ongoing normal structural loads. Gravity, winds, snow, materials, stuff, etc. The other is to deal with temporary structural concerns such as unique loads and risks taking place during the original construction. This recent video of a […]
Architect gets jail time in LA Fire

Here at Building Science Services we’ve been following reports starting in 2012 about an Architect that was criminally charged in the death of a LA Firefighter who was killed fighting a fire at a home that was designed and constructed by the Architect in the previous year. In an updated report, it was announced this past […]
Code Durability

Most professionals familiar with building codes, and even the general public, seem to understand that building codes serve an important purpose in safeguarding the health and safety of people when occupying a building. What most people don’t understand, many professionals included, is that building codes also set minimum standards for the durability of buildings. The […]
Building Code, DesignMyth of Public Agency Protection

Before you read too far along here, let’s be clear the following is not intended to serve a legal advice and counsel. It is however, the opinion of an author with significant experience as an expert witness in design and construction matters. You should seek out professional legal counsel for any specific legal matters related […]
Help! Hazards of Building Investigations

In this video see how sometimes it is challenging to give a building hazard the right name. See if you can help with this one!
Buildings, InspectionsTruck Chat 02- Becoming ‘forensic’

In this video episode- Ken asks the question “How do you become a Forensic Architect”? Ride along for personal thoughts on becoming ‘forensic’.
The Answer is Always NO

I have over the years instructed the my crews and trades that my answer is always NO, regardless of the question. This has seemed to really curb the quantity while improve the quality of questions during the day. I have never assessed the ramifications or the missed opportunities, but the projects get done on time […]
Truck Chat 01- An Introduction

In this video episode of Truck Chat….Ken welcomes you to the first edition of Truck Chats. Ride along for an introduction to a unique feature.