A GBA-Member Firm was hired to assess whether a proposed facility was buildable. The original project scope did not include final design or construction observation services. The Member Firm was later contracted to assess the exposed subgrade at the project site, where static groundwater was observed, consistent with the Member Firm’s prior report. The Member Firm was told that they didn’t do enough to call out the issues related to the groundwater and that they were reserving the right to hold the firm responsible for the additional costs incurred.
The Member Firm remained involved in the project and took steps to strengthen the client relationship. The Member Firm’s suggestions along the way resulted in considerable savings and the project was finished within budget – and the Member Firm avoided a lawsuit.

building slab pad, construction observation, earthwork, excavation, fill, French drain, geotechnical, groundwater, moist soil, preliminary work, retaining wall, seismic design parameters, shallow foundation, stormwater pond, third-party consultant, third-party real estate broker, reclaimed land,