Geotechnical engineering plays a crucial role in the planning and execution of construction projects. From foundational stability to the management of complex soil conditions, every project depends heavily on geotechnical assessments to ensure safety and success. When issues arise, they can have far-reaching consequences, leading to delays, budget overruns, and even structural failures. This is where DAC Consulting Services steps in, offering specialized forensic engineering and expert witness services to address and resolve

complex geotechnical disputes on a global scale.

Understanding Geotechnical Issues in Construction

Geotechnical engineering involves the analysis of soil, rock, groundwater, and other subsurface conditions to determine their properties and how they will interact with proposed

construction designs. Problems can manifest at various stages of a project, from initial site investigation through to post construction monitoring. Common geotechnical issues in

construction projects include:

1. Soil Settlement: uneven settlement or subsidence can cause differential movements in structures, leading to cracking, misalignment, and potentially catastrophic structural failures.

2. Slope Stability: poor slope management or unexpected weather patterns can lead to landslides and soil erosion, jeopardizing the safety and stability of retaining walls, embankments, and nearby structures.

3. Foundation Failures: misinterpretation of soil-bearing capacities or incorrect foundation design can result in excessive deflection, tilt, or complete structural collapse.

4. Groundwater Control: incorrect groundwater management can cause flooding, reduced soil strength, and instability, impacting both temporary and permanent structures.

5. Seismic Considerations: in regions prone to seismic activity, understanding the soil- structure interaction is critical to designing foundations that can withstand dynamic loads during an earthquake.

6. Expansive and Collapsible Soils: soil types such as clays and loess can shrink, swell, or collapse under varying moisture conditions, affecting the long-term integrity of foundations and below-ground structures.

When these issues emerge, determining liability and resolving disputes often require a forensic approach—assessing project data, investigating design and construction practices, and providing expert opinions that can stand up to scrutiny in legal and arbitration settings.

DAC Consulting Services: Expertise in Forensic Geotechnical Engineering

DAC Consulting Services has a Geotechnical team that specialises in unravelling complex geotechnical disputes for large-scale construction projects. Our team of experts has extensive experience in both geotechnical engineering and forensic analysis, offering tailored solutions for a broad range of issues:

1. Site Investigation Analysis: a comprehensive review of the geotechnical data collected during site investigations, identifying any inconsistencies or omissions that could have led to unforeseen problems.

2. Foundation Performance Assessment: an in-depth evaluation of foundation behaviour, including settlements, tilts, and structural distress, to pinpoint the root cause of performance issues.

3. Slope Stability Investigations: using advanced modelling and site inspections to assess slope failures and provide mitigation strategies.

4. Groundwater and Hydrological Studies: analysing groundwater conditions and their impact on soil stability and structural safety, including dewatering failures and drainage problems.

5. Seismic and Dynamic Analysis: conducting post-event forensic studies to evaluate the performance of structures under seismic loads and identifying any design or construction flaws that may have exacerbated damage.

6. Construction Claim Analysis: supporting clients with claims related to unforeseen geotechnical conditions, differing site conditions, and inappropriate design modifications, by providing detailed reports and expert testimony.

Expert Witness Services: Defending Your Case

Geotechnical disputes are often technical, involving complex interactions between soil, water, and structural components. This complexity makes expert witness services a critical component of successful dispute resolution. DAC Consulting Services brings a wealth of

knowledge and experience to the table, offering credible, evidence-backed opinions that clarify technical issues for legal professionals, mediators, and arbitrators.

Our experts have been involved in high-profile cases around the world, providing testimony in arbitration, litigation, and adjudication proceedings. With a focus on delivering clear, unbiased assessments, DAC Consulting Services helps our clients navigate contentious

geotechnical disputes with confidence.

With a strong foundation in geotechnical and forensic engineering, DAC Consulting Services stands out for its commitment to excellence, thoroughness, and impartiality. Our multidisciplinary team has handled a wide range of construction claims, offering a deep understanding of both engineering principles and the legal frameworks governing construction disputes.

Whether it's a local infrastructure project or a large international development, DAC Consulting Services is equipped to provide the support you need to resolve geotechnical challenges swiftly and effectively. Our mission is to bridge the gap between engineering and law, ensuring that complex technical issues are translated into clear, actionable insights.

For more information on our geotechnical services or to discuss a specific project, reach out to DAC Consulting Services today. Let us help you turn complex geotechnical issues into solutions.