THE CASE
When a fire broke out at an upscale family home in Alamo, California, all occupants quickly and safely evacuated the residence – but the house was left in ruins. While the fire damage was extensive, the failure of the remedial contractor hired by the family’s home insurance carrier to immediately remove the water — and the prolonged dispute over damage that followed — allowed for further deterioration of the home.
Ultimately, what remained of the house after the fire and subsequent water damage indicated it was a total loss.
FIRE DAMAGE EXPERT SERVICES
The family hired fire damage expert Steven P. Viani, P.E. to help them. Steve’s scope was to expertly assess the extent of fire damages, water damages, the overall condition of the residence and each space, including all rooms and the exterior. The brickwork on the house and on the landscaping was the same, and no like replacements could be located to restore the residence. Framing in some areas was balloon framing that would require extensive demolition to allow for removal.
Another major issue resulting from the fire and water was the home’s severely damaged and deteriorated subfloor that would require replacement. Unfortunately, the house framing was constructed on top of the subfloor and replacing the subfloor would require removal of all framing, including the roof framing and the roof.
THE RESULTS
To ensure the homeowners’ recovery from the fire and water damage, Steve prepared an expertly detailed estimate that conformed to the requirements of the Fair Claims Settlement Practices contained in the California Insurance Code Section 2695.9. His client prevailed in Appraisal.
Related Water Damage Expert Cases
Steven Viani, PE, has extensive experience investigating and resolving fire and water damage issues. See the successful results of Steve’s expertise in action:
- Accurate Water Damage Estimate Allows Homeowners in Atherton, CA, to Recover After Disaster Strikes While on Vacation
- California Estate Saved from Subsurface Water Intrusion Caused by Neighboring Housing Developments
A Construction & Engineering Expert Can Help Resolve Your Fire Damage Case
Steve Viani is a licensed civil engineer who has acted as a construction defect expert, appraiser, and engineering expert witness in more than 500 cases for homeowners, law firms, businesses, and government entities.
Learn more about how Steve’s expert engineering and construction expertise can support dispute resolution in these areas:
- Construction defect cases
- Engineering expert witness cases
- Insurance appraisal cases and construction claims
- Landslide repair cases and soil investigations
- Construction contract disputes
- Engineering litigation support (including large databases)
Discuss Your Case With Expert Civil Engineer Steve Viani, PE
If you’re dealing with rebuilding after a catastrophic fire, you don’t have go it alone. Consult with a construction expert and appraiser who can help you navigate your fire insurance claim.
To discuss your engineering and construction case, please call Steven P. Viani, PE, at (916) 952-8503. Or contact Steve online to set up a call.
