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Banksia Beach Forensic Investigation

March 26, 2019

Project No: 6984

The BEC team were asked to provide an urgent forensic investigation into a concrete slab in Banksia Beach which was exhibiting slab edge dampness. Upon noticing the issue, the builders contacted the concrete supplier giving them five days to respond identifying the cause of the concrete issue, rectification plans for the issue at hand, and prevention measures for future sites.  At this point BE Collective was engaged to provide a third-party expert assessment and forensic investigation.

Our team undertook a site inspection, reviewed existing design elements and site conditions. Our report found that a contributing cause of the slab edge dampness was ‘salt attack’ due to the proximity to a large body of salt water. Other contributing factors included environmental and construction issues. Our report also covered suggested remediation action for this specific case, and preventative measures for the builders to take to ensure it doesn’t happen again. (more…)

Callide Creek Bridge Investigation

January 18, 2019

Project No: 6992

The BEC team were asked to undertake a forensic investigation of the new Callide Creek Bridge in Biloela. The S40 concrete mix exhibited low compressive strength in the relieving slabs, and low 7-day compressive strengths on the piling mix. The concrete test results came in at 38mpa, just under the Main Road’s required 40mpa, bringing into question the building’s strength and durability.  BEC were called in by the concrete supplier who were faced with the possibility of having to demolish and reconstruct the entire structure free of charge if their concrete was proven to be inadequate.

The BEC Team analysed batch records, compressive strengths test results and NCR findings. BEC’s investigation found that following the concrete pour, the test samples were transported over 500kms in unstable conditions (while curing) to the facility where they were tested, which likely impacted its strength. Following our full analysis, the BEC Team assessed that the concrete on site was sufficient to provide the strength and building life expected, and we provided a letter of support for our client which enabled them to avoid rebuilding at their own expense.

Wellington Street, Petrie Terrace

October 10, 2017

Project No. 6685

The Wellington Street project is a tight little two-story residential townhouse, located in Petrie Terrace. BE Collective were asked to step in on the project after a dispute between the client and the builder.  The engineer’s drawing specified an A1 standard for all concrete finishes but the concrete didn’t match architectural and engineering specifications.  The delivered concrete showed unevenness in horizontal surfaces, and blowholes in vertical surfaces as a result of inadequate vibration when it was poured.

The BE Collective team supported the client’s case by providing specialist forensic inspection and reporting on non-compliances and potential structural issues, and were prepared to provide expert witness representation at QCAT – luckily that wasn’t necessary. (more…)