Existing Building Review

Forensics

Norton & Schmidt can provide the investigation and design expertise necessary to determine the cause and extent of damages to building elements. Norton & Schmidt has completed thousands of forensic investigations concerning, but not limited to:

Construction defects
Deterioration
Environmental damage (fire, tornado, hail, etc.)
Expansive soil conditions/settlement
Moisture issues
Structural failure
Vehicular impact

Restoration

All building materials deteriorate with time and weathering. We can determine the necessary repairs, prioritize them based on budget, and create a plan to address the cause of the damage. Our investigation and design services cover the entire restoration process, from initial evaluation to creating design documents, construction supervision, and future maintenance planning. Examples of restoration projects include, but are not limited to:

Building envelope (masonry, EIFS, stucco, etc.)
Concrete deterioration
Exterior steel structures
Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP)
Fire damage
Parking garages
Severe weather damage

Property Condition Assessment/Capital Reserve Studies

During a property condition assessment, Norton & Schmidt’s engineers observe and inspect the components of the building, including structural, electrical, plumbing and HVAC, status of completion, and code performance. Our assessment is based on the latest ASTM standards and cost projections are based on current market costs.

A property condition assessment report details the status and condition of all major components of the property and outlines any repair or upgrade costs that would be required either for code compliance, safety, or optimal performance. We can also project long-term costs to help plan for the future or for an investment.

Norton & Schmidt has provided property condition assessments for thousands of properties with total valuations of several billion dollars. Clients include TIAA-CREF, Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance, Bank of America, PNC Bank, individual investors, developers, insurers, attorneys, local municipalities, and condominium homeowners' associations.