Evaluation of Risks From Adjacent Construction

Overview

Construction and/or demolition activities can damage adjacent buildings if not performed properly. The risks from construction activities may be mitigated by following these steps before putting shovels in the ground.

1. Identify the area of influence of the new construction: We help assess how different construction activities (excavation, dewatering, pile driving, demolition) could affect the neighboring buildings, and provide options for mitigating potential risks.
2. Assess the structures within the area of influence: We help identify the area of impact of the new foundation based on the planned activities and the anticipated means and methods.
3. Conduct a preconstruction survey of the structures at risk: We use state-of-the-art technology to document the existing conditions of properties that fall within the construction area of influence and identify conditions that need to be further evaluated.
4. Monitor vibrations, noise, ground and building movements as needed: We help develop the appropriate monitoring plan based on the findings of the preconstruction evaluation and select monitoring threshold to track the effects from the adjacent construction.

Construction Vibrations

The effects of construction vibrations on adjacent properties are becoming more obvious to legislators, building officials, construction professionals and the public. Construction vibrations may lead to structural damage to adjacent properties, service interruptions for sensitive equipment, and/or discomfort to nearby residents and businesses. We help understand the risks associated with construction vibrations.

Protection of the Public

Protection of the public is paramount during construction. Protective measures include construction fences and barriers, sidewalk sheds, scaffolding towers and shoring. Often, the findings from the preconstruction evaluation require underpinning the foundations of the adjacent property at risk. We help evaluate and engineer approaches to protect adjacent properties and pedestrians.

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